Susan Boyle’s Got Talent

When Susan Boyle tried out for “Britain’s Got Talent,” I bet she never dreamed that no only would she WOW the judges (including the ol’ curmudgeons Simon Cowell and his pal, Piers Morgan) or that she would become an overnight internet sensation.  I’ve never been particularly interested in “Britain’s Got Talent” or its American counterpart, but I’ve watched this Susan Boyle clip over a dozen times by now.  Partly because I’m trying to figure out if the two guys who are the show hosts are from “The Wiggles” and partly because like so many, Susan’s triumph has touched my heart.

When watching the online video, I knew Susan and I would get along famously if we ever met.  She’s campy, quirky, and a little bit wild–my kind of gal.  However, what I might consider charming, others consider strange, even laughable.  But as soon as Susan starts singing “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Miserables (one of my favorite musicals), every mocker was put to shame.  Her voice was like that of a seasoned star causing everyone’s eyes to open wide in astonishment.  The judges sat there in visible shock, and Simon even got a proud sort of smile on his face.  It was a moment to behold and those who laughed one moment cheered her the next.  Such is the gentle power of Susan Boyle.

I did a little digging on the Internet to find out more about Susan, and learned that she is learning disabled, which has caused her much ridicule during her 47 years of life.  Susan also cared for her now-deceased parents in the small Scottish town of West Lothian. A regular church attender, Susan learned to develop her vocal talents in that hallowed place.  Devastated by the passing of her mother in 2007, Susan had sworn off singing for good.  That is, until April 11, when she was featured on “Britain’s Got Talent.” (Source: SFGate.com)

There’s something about Susan Boyle’s story that strikes an international chord.  A short, dumpy woman who laughingly admitted she’s never been kissed took  a risk on the silly dream of becoming a professional singer.  Even though the audience laughed at her, not with her, Susan grabbed that microphone anyway.  The judges sneered, but she sang anyway.  It’s the stuff that dreams are made of–a real sock it to ‘em.

We, who have been mocked, who have been told our dreams are too big, who have been told we’re too fat to act, and too tone deaf to sing look at Susan Boyle and say, “Yes! You go, girl!  You live the dream!”  Because maybe our dreams aren’t too big, maybe we aren’t too fat to act, and maybe we’re not too tone deaf to sing.  Maybe, just maybe, we find encouragement from the Susan Boyles of the world, who despite their fears, do it anyway.  And we hope for that standing ovation, too.

Even if it never comes, we need not be ashamed.  Susan sure wasn’t.  She sang her heart out and then started to walk off the stage.  There’s more, the co-hosts tell her, and she scuttles back onstage to receive her applause.  In her mind, Susan Boyle had already won.  The judges’ response was just decadence on the vocal masterpiece created by one simple woman.

Because she took a risk, the world now knows that Susan Boyle from West Lothian has got amazing talent.  And we’re all better for knowing her.

Voting:: American Idol vs. American President

By Andrew J. Wilhelm Congratulations to the latest “American Idol” David Cook, who received the majority of the 99.7 million votes cast. While the inconvenience of college cut into my T.V. viewing, , I am a big fan of the show. The overall premise of the show, to give an amateur singer the chance of a lifetime, is a good one. It is also one that the American public can buy into–who doesn’t want dreams to come true? Still, 99.7 million is a daunting number! Since fans of the show can vote mutliple times, it doesn’t accurately reflect the actual number of viewers. Yet “American Idol” finales typically garner around 30 million viewers. Having 10% percent of the country captivated by a single television show is pretty impressive. Props to Simon, Paula, and Randy!

Although the 2004 presidential election garnered 40% of eligible voter turnout, “American Idol” judge Simon Cowell almost always gets more Americans to vote than political candidates. Primaries, even in this extra-thrilling campaign season, often struggle to reach double digits. Most people just don’t care enough to drive to the polling station and hit a button. Why are people more willing to vote for the nation’s next rock star, but seem lackadaisical about picking the next leader of the country? While his good looks and throaty vocals may make David Cook the next big thing; he’s not attempting to rule the free world (by political force anyway). Why do American citizens have more interest in pop stars than presidents?

I decided to ask a few of my friends, mostly college students like myself, about this issue and have elicited several interesting answers to my inquiry.

The most popular answer was that politics is “boring.” A vague expression, but one I’ll try to uncover more fully. Most people fall into three categories of “political boredom”: they believe their single vote couldn’t possibly make a difference; they simply don’t understand government workings and don’t care to learn; or they have been disenchanted because of corruption, scandals, etc. In fact, among those who choose not to vote, I would conjecture that all three possibilities would apply.

I have heard an enormous amount of people say that they are unhappy with our current options–John McCain, Barack Obama, and Hillary Clinton, who’s hanging on by the skin of her teeth. Their remedy to such disdain is to simply not vote. I’d urge everyone to at least limit the damage by voting for whoever they deem the lesser of the two (or three) “evils”.

The weather also has a lot to do with whether or not people show up to the polls. A sunny, pleasant day can yield up to twice the voters as a cold, rainy day. Lame? I sure think so. Unfortunately, Americans have become uncontrollably lazy. They are used to being able to do everything from the comfort of their own La-Z-Boy. What if voting could be done via the Internet or even text messiaging, as in “American Idol”? These are possibilities that would dramatically change the voting landscape, but must be explored to keep up with this generation’s demands. Can you imagine Hillary standing on stage urging viewers to vote for her by calling 1-888-PREZ-001?

The level of disengagement from politics is being felt as severely as ever. Some everyday Americans–the ones who who go to work, pick up the kids from school, go to bed, only to repeat the process don’t have a clue what’s happening in Washington. But the politicians don’t seem to know what’s going on in middle America either. Like the a monarchy, the wealthiest tend to rule (and make the rules for) big-time politics It seems our government will be ruled by older, wealthy, white men in the foreseeable future, which doesn’t bode well for the “American Idol” voting crowd. In fact, many might want to replace the President, Congress, and Supreme Court with the checks-and-balances of Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson, with AI host Ryan Seacrest as press secretary naturally.

In fact, the start-up of “American Idol” is arguably the best part of the show, and a lot more exciting than the primaries. The show’s preliminary auditions present viewers with freaks and tone deaf contestants that give us all a chuckle. After that, a few contestants who can actually sing make it through to the voting stages. Each contestants has his or her unique personality, hair style, vocal range, personal story, and connection with viewers. Not so in politics. While there has been some diversity in this year’s presidential election, politics is sill mostly wealthy white men who enjoy listening and arguing with other wealthy white men. Those who push the envelope threaten this hierarchy of power and can rarely penetrate the deep layers of aged power in Washington.

When it comes down to “American Idol” versus the American President, it seems we choose entertainment over politics, unless of course there’s a political scandal brewing. Nothing shoots up ratings like an old-fashioned affair or deep-seeded corruption. I enjoy “American Idol” as much as anyone else. In fact, I’ve for more AI contestants than politicians. In all fairness, I’m 19 and have only been eligible to vote a couple of times. I have voted every time since registering to vote and was proud to do so.

Though it’s a little more time-consuming to research and uncover the candidates’ positions, policies, and experiences, it is of the utmost importance. “American Idol” simply feeds its audience with stories, songs, flashing lights, and snarky judges; your vote only makes a super star. Despite dissatisfaction with politics and awe at “American Idol”, it is essential for Americans to get off their couches, put down their remotes, and head to the polls. As the United States continues to be the dominant force in the world; your vote will not only impact you, but millions around the globe. If you have the power to turn an obscure rocker into an “American Idol”, you have the chance to turn a candidate of your voice into the next American President.

Andrew Wilhelm is a sophomore at Wheaton College majoring in political science with a minor in economics. His two main passions are playing piano and golf. He also enjoys learning about and analyzing trends in culture, economics, and politics. For some strange reason, he consistently refuses to send his Nintendo Wii to Amy.

Print copy of Scribble.

Andrew Wilhelm a sophomore at Wheaton College majoring in political science with a minor in economics. His two main passions are playing piano and golf. He also enjoys learning about and analyzing trends in culture, economics, and politics.

David Cook’s Crown

I’ve been watching all season, and I just noticed that DC is either left-handed or likes playing his guitar backwards. The guitar, incidentally, is his brother’s with the initials “AC” (Andrew Cook). David’s brother is the one who got him to try out and has been suffering from cancer. Incidentally, Mama and Papa Cook seem to have raised two fine boys. Best withes to DC and AC or (AC/DC).

David Cook was crowned the new Miss America, I mean, “American Idol”. Confetti fell from the ceiling, the crowd cheered, and the Cook man cried in a manly way. It was beautiful. Plus, what a gracious winner. As he sung the winner of the AI songwriter’s contest, he invited the rest of the Top 12 to join with him on the judges’ platform.

Does anyone actually know what his orange rubber band bracelet stands for? Apparently, Cook was sent the bracelet by reporter Charley Belcher whose daughter, Lindsey Rose, is suffering from leukemia. Cook was first seen wearing the bracelet when he sang “Eleanor Rigby” and hasn’t removed it since.

Out of all the contestants, DC was the most innovative musician trying new things each and every week. Plus, there was no doubt that out of the Top 12, he was bound to sell the most albums. It was a well-deserved win for Mr. Cook.

Everyone’s favorite best friend and brother, Renaldo!

Of course, the actual results of the show were announced in the last 3 minutes of the two hour season finale (way to keep the people in suspense!), which had many amusing highlights. The first of my absolute favorite moments was Brooke White’s duet with Graham Nash (of Crosby, Stills, Nash & sometimes Young) and of course, the reappearance of Renaldo “I am your brother” Lapuz. The latter was one of the greatest moments in television history as he was joined onstage by the USC cheerleaders and marching band (and later Randy and Paula).

Here’s a ghetto recording I found of tonight’s performance on YouTube.com…I’m sure there will be better on ones, but this will do for now…

And, of course, the original airing that made us love him…

The song also included a great performance of David Cook and ZZTop, the Jonas Brothers causing a ruckus among the ‘tweens, Seal and Syesha, as well as Jason Castro doing a rendition of the only song he sang well, “Hallelujah”. Former winners Jordin Sparks and Carrie Underwood also performed, both wearing outfits I’m pretty sure they stole from Tina Turner’s closet. Taylor Hicks has been surprisingly absent from the spotlight during seasons 6 and 7 of “American Idol.” Isn’t that peculiar?

It was a great finale was absurdly long commercial breaks (which was to be expected) and a surprise ending. I thought Archie has the victory in hand, but at the end of the night, David Cook was king!

Rock on, DC, rock on!

Arguably one of Cook’s best perfomances was his cover of Chris Cornell’s cover of the Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean”. Video below…

American Idol…finally!!!

“American Idol” lost much of its sparkle this week without Brooke White (watch her exit interview)…however, the show was full of laughs. Choosing songs from the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame, the Top 4 sang two classic hits. Except for Jason Castro. I’m not sure what he was doing. Why on earth couldn’t the show have picked this theme earlier and replaced Mariah Carey week? We could have all done without that disaster of a show.

David C. looks like he’s growling like THE wolf.

David Cook, the resident rocker was in his element, singing “Hungry Like the Wolf” (Duran Duran) and “Baba O’Riley” by The Who. The latter was the stronger of the two performances. Being a big Duran Duran, I loved Cook’s cover of “Hungry Like the Wolf”. Although I thought it was called “Hungry Like A Wolf”… Paula cheerfully said that she was left with a big appetite for more David Cook, to which most human females cheerfully agree.

America just loves him tender. Isn’t that shirt great?

Then there’s 17 year-old cutie pie David Archuleta who regaled the audience with his own spin on “Stand By Me” and “Love Me Tender.” Teen girls everywhere went wild, fainting and swooning. I just happened to like his black and white bird shirt. It came as no surprise that neither of the Davids were in the Bottom Two.

Syesha’s got great stage presence. Unfortunately, I doubt she’ll make the finals. It’s going to be a battle of the Davids.

Syesha rocked out to “Proud Mary” (Credence Clearwater Revival did the best cover of this song) and “A Change Is Gonna Come” by Sam Cooke. I had never hear the second song before, but apparently it was written during the CIvil Rights movement. And since Brooke wasn’t there to cry this week, Syesha took over when Paula complimented her graciously.

At least Castro didn’t further degrade the songs by actually playing the guitar he was holding.

Then there was Jason Castro, who should have gone home weeks ago. Not only did he murder Bob Marley’s “I Shot the Sheriff,” he also ruined one of my fave Dylan songs, “Mr. Tambourine Man.” Both performances were so painful I thought about sticking a popsicle stick into my ear canal to puncture my ear drums (I couldn’t turned off the T.V. or walked out of the room, but that would be far less dramatic). And, uh, what was with Castro holding a random guitar that he didn’t appear to play? Simon was horrified saying, “That was like a first round audition massacre. I don’t know what you’re thinking.”

To which Jason, who in all fairness was probably stoned, replied, “I was thinking, ‘Bob Marley!’” Right.

After mucking up and FORGETTING THE WORDS TO “Mr. Tambourine Man” (how can you forget a great like “on that jingle jangle morning I’ll come following you”?), Simon told Jason to pack his suitcase. Seriously, it’s sad when Bob Dylan sounds better singing his songs than a Top 4 “American Idol” contestant…that’s saying something.

Finally on tonight’s elimination show, JASON CASTRO WAS SENT HOME!!! The best part was that he didn’t look like he cared…at all. While he was being eliminated he said that someone told him that he “shot the tambourine man. I thought that was pretty funny.” Yeah, it was stinkin’ hilarious. As if he couldn’t act any stupider, he then says, “Three songs next week. I don’t know what I would’ve have done.” Me neither. There aren’t enough popsicle sticks in the world.

Not only did were we subjected to Castro’s swan song, we also had to hear Maroon 5 playing their latest radio single. It sounded like the lead singer was sucking on a helium balloon while he was waiting in the green room. During the band’s performance, Sarah says to me, “I thought Maroon 5 was supposed to be good.” The lead singer did redeem himself offering the remaining contestants this advice, “You’re gonna get jaded and say, ‘I hate this’, but you really love it.” For a balloon sucker, he seems like a nice guy.

Review: Running Back to You–Chris Sligh

Album Release: May 6

By Amy Sondova From his wild curly hair to his off-the-beaten-path look, Chris Sligh seemed an unlikely candidate for “American Idol” Season 6, yet he managed to slip by thousands even making the show’s Top 10. Less than a year later, Sligh releases Running Back to You on indie label Brash Music, with his mug adorning the album cover reminding us all why America loved him.

The title track, “Running Back to You,” is a catchy tune sure to make worship leaders everywhere sing its praise…figuratively and literally. “Cry Tonight” starts out strong, and then falls into the same tempo and mood as the other 12 tracks on Running Back to You.

The album itself is less than dynamic. Tired lyrics, repetitive melodies, and lack of interesting vocals make Running Back to You another CD on the shelf. In fact, Sligh’s vocals are often drowning under guitar hooks and drum beats, so one has to pay careful attention to catch each word. It’s not that the album is terrible; it’s not. However, it lacks creativity as each song runs into the next. While there are a few interesting orchestrations here and there, they can’t save this album.

Running Back to You makes great background noise or as a starter CD for a youth worship band. If you’re looking for something unique, the album doesn’t hit the mark. Or as “American Idol” judge Simon Cowell would say, “Come back and wow us next year.”

Print copy of review.

Brooke’s Time To Go

Haha! I wrote this last night and instead of publishing it just saved it in my drafts!

She looks so cute with that guitar, even though her rendition of “Daydream Believer” was kind of off.

I yelled, “No!”, threw my notebook in the general direction of the television set, and buried my face into a pillow. Yes, folks, that was my reaction to the horribleness that occured on “American Idol’s” elimination show this evening…and it wasn’t just because of the medley of Neil Diamond songs the Top 5 butchered at the start of the show.

Send this kid home already!

It was bound to happen–Brooke White got voted off this evening. I was genuinely surprised that Jason Castro who was absolutely horrendous the past two weeks didn’t make it into the Bottom 2. I understand that some misguided teen girls probably used up all their cell phone minutes voting for the kid, but seriously, what is going on? Then again, during one of the breaks there was a commercial advertising the new movie Baby Mama as the #1 movie in America–no wonder Castro is in the Top 3.

Gotta love a guy who can rock an acoustic and an electric!

What wasn’t shocking was the the Davids–Archie and Cookie were safe or that Syesha was (once gain) in the Bottom 2. I truly was not expecting a Brooke send-off, and burst into tears (like Brooke, who also burst into tears). Brooke was also the victim of the website Vote For The Worst the past few weeks. VFTW acts like they sway the “Idol” vote so much, but if that’s true, how is that their pick (Brooke) went home? VFTW let me down.

The highlight of the gloomy show, as always, was the view call-in. Simon’s first girlfriend called in and asked if she was a better kisser than Paula (the kiss happened when Simon was 9). Simon turned a lovely shade of pink and stammered, “This literally was my first kiss. This was my first crush.” It was pretty endearing.

Brooke in her natural environment, behind a piano.

Then, of course, Neil Diamond performed a song from his new album called, “Pretty Amazing Grace,” which sounded a lot like a worship song with a cha-cha beat. I had no idea that Diamond played guitar (a sweet acoustic guitar) and he does some decent finger picking. Rock on, Neil! He also left all his shiny shirts at home and instead chose to wear a nice black ensemble.

David Cook rockin’ a sweet white electric!

Now that Brooke is gone, I’m giving David Cook my entire support. While I loved Brooke’s heart, I do think that Mr. Cook is the clear choice to win the competition. And, people, that Castro kid NEEDS TO GO!

And here’s Brooke one last time…

American Idol Does Neil Diamond

The one and only Neil Diamond.

Simon hit the nail on the head when he said, “This is officially the strangest show we’ve ever done.” Indeed it was a strange night on “American Idol” with Neil Diamond being this week’s mentor. I know; it sounds like the subject of an “American Idol” sketch on “Sunday Night Live”. But it wasn’t…it actually happened.

The Top 5 sang not one, but two Neil Diamond songs…it was, uh, interesting.

Look at this kid! He cracks me up!

First up was Jason “I’m Not Sure What’s Going On” Castro, who started off strumming his guitar to “Forever in Blue Jeans”. It was just hilarious–there’s no other way to put it. It was so cheesy I couldn’t help but erupt into laughter. ‘Tween girls everywhere ate it up I’m sure. His second song was a miserable rendition of “September Morn” which lacked passion, enthusiasm…it pretty much lacked everything. As I listened to Castro sing, I wondered, “Do the hair dressers get grossed out doing his hair for the show?” If this kid makes it through another week, it’s only because America is as clueless as he is.

Sigh. Swoon.

Next was resident resident David “Too Hot For Words” Cook who chose to sing “I’m Alive and “All I Ever Needed”. While the first song was OK, I mean, it was David Cook singing; he nailed the second one. I think he was totally playing on his sexual appeal during “All I Ever Needed”, but then again, it was kind of a sexy performance. Cook used a white electric guitar during the first song and an acoustic on the second, which was weird when he totally rocked out. I still think he’s going to go all the way; Paula apparently agrees.

I love Brooke’s expression in this photo!

Brooke White decided to play two instruments this week–guitar and piano. She started out playing “I’m A Believer”, which was a poor choice of song. Not only did it sound like “girls night out at the karaoke bar” as Simon so delicately put it, but it was just so “unBrooke”. However, Brooke seemed to regain the confidence she’s been lacking the past few weeks. Her second song, “I Am I Said” was wonderful. She took her place at the piano and belted out a passionate song with Brooke-like sincerity. That’s our girl, Brooke!

Seriously, who dressed this kid?

Even though David Archuleta received acclaim from the judges, I didn’t think he was that great. I suppose his vocals were on, but the musical arrangements sounded hooky to me. “Sweet Caroline”, Archie’s first choice, seemed like a happy bubblegum song as opposed to a passionate love song and “America” seemed to lose intensity with the jovial background music. Neither song really seemed to fit David’s age bracket, but I knew he’d pick “America”. I just knew it. He’s a cute kid, but seriously, who’s gonna buy his album (should be make one) at this point?

Syesha’s steamy performance from last week.

Simon thinks it’s Syesha Mercado’s week to go home and I agree. While she is a talented vocalist, her voice is better suited for Broadway, not pop music. Her version of “Hello” again was all over the place, which made the vocals messy and unappealing. Showing excellent stage presence on “Thank the Lord for the Nighttime”, her vocals weren’t stunning. In fact, I felt like I was watching a nightmarish version of “High School Musical: Neil Diamond Edition”.

Neil Diamond’s releasing his 26th album on May 6, so obviously he’s on the show for publicity. But, my goodness, what are the producers thinking? I say this week after week and it just keeps getting worse. I’m glad there are only a handful of contestants left. What’s next? Marilyn Manson night? Anyway, adding to the strangeness of the night were the goofy psychedelic stage lights, which just made everything seem surreal. The only thing worse than watching it on T.V. would have been being there LIVE…GO BROOKE!

Another blogger brings up a good point, how *did* Paula have her notes on Castro’s second song ready to go when he hadn’t sung it yet?  Read it here.

It’s A Cook Off!

The very single David Cook.

Yes, ladies, David Cook is single. That’s one of the fascinating tidbits viewers picked up with tuning in to “American Idol’s” elimination show tonight. This season viewers can now call in on elimination nights to ask questions to the judges or contestants. Naturally, the questions are always of a serious nature and important to the betterment of our great country, like asking David Cook if he is single . Personally, I can sleep better at night knowing that the next day I may get a phone call from the very single David Cook asking me out on a date (a girl can dream, can’t she?)

Another caller asked Paula Abdul to describe her relationship to Simon Cowell using one of her songs–”Straight Up” was SImon’s choice, while Randy Jackson and Ryan Seacrest suggested “Cold-Hearted Snake”, Paula decided on “Opposites Attract” (making Simon the dancing cat in the video) and then informed Simon that she will never be “Forever Your Girl”. I’m sure he was crushed being as he’s engaged to a former model.

Let the poor girl buy back her horse!

The saddest question came from a view who asked Kristy Lee Cook if she was able to buy back her horse–the horse she sold so she could afford to chase her dream of becoming the next “American Idol”. Unfortunately, the man who bought Kristy’s horse seems unwilling to part with the animal. And then things got worse for Kristy, she was kicked off “American Idol”. But, wow, did she go out with a bang! Sitting practically in Simon’s lap, Kristy sassily sang her swan song. It was the most hilarious farewell performance I have ever seen on the show. I’ll miss her spunk.

Kristy was joined in the Bottom 3 by Syesha and BROOKE WHITE! Let me get this straight–Brooke is in the Bottom 3 while Carly Smithson can merrily skip off to safety. The Davids staged a sit-in during elimination refusing to go to safety (though Carly was happy to head to the couches and Jason Castro probably had no clue what was going on so we really can’t blame him for anything. I’m not even sure he realizes he’s on planet Earth).

I could end my post here, but then I’d miss out on telling you about Mariah Carey’s performance on tonight’s show. Wearing something that looked like a black bathing suit from the 1920′s she belted out her new song, “Bye Bye” (at least I think that’s what it was called). Mariah wasn’t the only fashion misfit on tonight’s show; Paula looked like she was growing a flower out of her neck. I know Fox is going green and all, but really.

Vote for Brooke!!!

The good news (besides David Cook being single) is that Brooke is safe for another week…but just barely. Sarah and I can’t continue to call 200 times every Tuesday night. You people have got to step up to the plate and ensure that Brooke stays a little longer–at least longer than Carly Smithson, Jason Castro, and maybe Syesha. I’m counting on all of you to keep Brooke in until the Final Four, maybe the Final Three. If you don’t do it for Brooke, then do it for me. And if you really care, get me a date. If you can’t decide between voting for Brooke or getting me a date, choose the latter because I haven’t been on a date in a really long time.

TiVo Was Wrong!

SYESHA IS SAFE!!!

Looks like TiVo isn’t locked in on the pulse of “American Idol” fans after all. In tonight’s shocking elimination, Aussie rocker Michael Johns was sent home. Ironically, his rendition of “Dream On” was better tonight than on Tuesday night. There was an audible gasp from the crowd and the judges (minus Simon) as Michael’s departure was announced.

Maybe America just didn’t like his vest.

Then host Ryan Seacrest teased Michael and the audience by saying (paraphrased), “Last year on ‘Idol Gives Back’ we didn’t send anyone home. But this year… [dramatic pause] Michael, you’re gong home.” It was wickedly funny and Michael took it like a man and sang his heart out. I think his performances have been weak the past few shows, so his removal was inevitable as I said in my previous post. Looks like I’m a better at predicting talent than TiVo! (Yes, I am excited about beating a digital recorder!)

Syesha Mercado, who was predicted to be tonight’s big loser by TiVo, was in the Bottom Three, but has another week to show America her stuff. Joining Syesha and Michael in the Bottom Three was Carly Smithson, “Idol’s” resident Irish lass, who often makes strange faces when she sings.

Bottom Three regular Kristy Lee Cook made it safely to the couches, much to her surprise. Her cover of “Anyway” was one of the strongest performances on Tuesday’s show.

Yay for Brooke!

Brooke White is safe…for now. Haha..check out my brand new VOTE FOR BROOKE widget over there on the left. But remember to vote frantically for her next week because as tonight’s show proves–anything can happen and sometimes TiVo is wrong!

TiVo’s Predicts Weekly “Idol” Outcome

The title of the post is a bit long, but it’s a lot nicer than “TiVo Predict’s ‘Idol’ Loser”. That just sounds mean!

Week after week, TiVo has been able to accurately predict who gets canned on the “American Idol” elimination shows…and tonight’s victim is…SYESHA! (Full story) At least it’s not Brooke…phew! I knew those 200 votes would pay off.

Syesha’s singing her heart out! Give her another chance!

Syesha’s got a great voice, but lately her song choices have been, well, less than fabulous. On Tuesday, she sang a song by Fantasia, who annoys the heck out of me. After trying to nail songs by power singers Whitney Houston and Whitney Houston (she likes Whitney), Syesha came up short according to the ever-thoughful “American Idol” judges. Except for Paula. Paula thought Syesha did a bang-up job and that she looked beautiful. (AI Tip: Paula gushes about how great someone looks when they do a lousy job. I especially like to watch Simon’s reaction during these moments.)

Look at that goofy dreaded kid. Just posting this pic makes me smile.

Now really, people…Syesha? What is wrong with us? I feel guilty for not throwing a few votes Syesha’s way. The real crime is the fact the goofy stoner kid, Jason Castro and wanna-be rocker Aussie Michael Johns are probably staying. Look, I’m glad that teeny boppers everywhere think J.C.’s so hot (he *IS* cute). However, the fact he played a ukelele while singing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” gives him a free pass until next week. I have to admit I like the kid though–he’s like a dumb-loving dog that tugs at your heart. I just have to post a video of it (sorry Syesha)…

We’ll see if Syesha gets the boot, but one thing we can predict without TiVo–Kristy Lee Cook will most likely be in the Bottom 3…yet again.

In cast it hasn’t been apparent–I LOVE BROOKE WHITE (read why). Should Broke be sent home in one of those dreadful elimination ceremonies, my support will immediate go to David Cook, who rocks out (and looks pretty hot while doing it).

Brooke is not only a singer/songwriter-type; she also plays piano and guitar.

BTW, on a side not, does anyone else think it’s weird that Kristy Lee Cook and David Cook have the same last name?