Kieran, turn out the lights.
Our American Idol “journey” has come to an end, but let us not weep for what’s been cancelled, let us instead go to iTunes and download the Season 15 winner’s new single. Hey, from a songwriting vantage point, it may not be “Home,” but it definitely ranks above “No Boundaries” and “Inside Your Heaven” — and we bought those, too. And if this show can produce one more bona fide radio/touring superstar, maybe the inevitable reboot will happen sooner than expected, no?
RelatedFarewell for Now, American Idol, and Thanks for All the Memories...
Our American Idol “journey” has come to an end, but let us not weep for what’s been cancelled, let us instead go to iTunes and download the Season 15 winner’s new single. Hey, from a songwriting vantage point, it may not be “Home,” but it definitely ranks above “No Boundaries” and “Inside Your Heaven” — and we bought those, too. And if this show can produce one more bona fide radio/touring superstar, maybe the inevitable reboot will happen sooner than expected, no?
RelatedFarewell for Now, American Idol, and Thanks for All the Memories...
- 4/8/2016
- TVLine.com
Elise Testone's debut album, In This Life, hits shelves Tuesday, but the American Idol season 11 singer is giving fans an early treat with the release of her new music video for "I Will Not Break." The clip, directed by David Keller, features Testone and her love interest take a journey on a rowboat under a lush southern backdrop. Video: American Idol Hollywood Week Kicks Off With Nikki McKibbin, Son Tristen Langley Recorded in Charleston, S.C., In This Life--available for pre-order on her website--features appearances by fellow Idol alum Erika Van Pelt and Darius Rucker. The
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- 2/7/2014
- by Michele Amabile Angermiller
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Ugh, can you believe it? American Idol is back to giving us hour-long Thursday episodes. I thought these salad days of two-hour, Ben Hur-like installments would never end, but I was wrong. Scott Savol wrong.
But girl, Harry Connick Jr. still found the time to slay us with one-liners, like an actual adult we’d actually enjoy spending time with. The adult-iness of the rapport at the Idol judges’ table can’t be underestimated. Polite puns. Knowing asides. Incisive commentary on each other’s commentary. Remember, it was only a year ago that Nicki Minaj yelled obscenities while Mariah Carey muttered Mean Girls references at no one. I like Nicki and love Mariah, but that was more painful than any Lazaro Arbos ballad. This season is like a sweet, saucy, fun-loving Allison Iraheta take on “Hot Stuff.” You know I don’t say that about everyone.
Thursday’s Atlanta auditions were solid!
But girl, Harry Connick Jr. still found the time to slay us with one-liners, like an actual adult we’d actually enjoy spending time with. The adult-iness of the rapport at the Idol judges’ table can’t be underestimated. Polite puns. Knowing asides. Incisive commentary on each other’s commentary. Remember, it was only a year ago that Nicki Minaj yelled obscenities while Mariah Carey muttered Mean Girls references at no one. I like Nicki and love Mariah, but that was more painful than any Lazaro Arbos ballad. This season is like a sweet, saucy, fun-loving Allison Iraheta take on “Hot Stuff.” You know I don’t say that about everyone.
Thursday’s Atlanta auditions were solid!
- 1/24/2014
- by Louis Virtel
- The Backlot
American Idol returns in two months, and we've got an extended preview of the auditions that shows us the chemistry among the judges and a few of the contestants trying out. Also in today's Roundup, Lauren Alaina just performed a very personal and emotional new song that has a connection to someone in her life. And Erika Van Pelt has released a music video for her single "Hurricane."...
- 11/7/2013
- by editor@buddytv.com
- buddytv.com
We might be closer to finding out who the judges will be for American Idol season 13, as more names have surfaced as possible contenders -- is it a battle of the Jennifers? Also in today's Roundup, listen to a preview of Carrie Underwood's version of the Sunday Night Football theme song, and Erika Van Pelt has released a music video for her new single.
- 7/31/2013
- by editor@buddytv.com
- buddytv.com
Farah Alvin Nine, Grease, The Marvelous Wonderettes , Anika Larsen Avenue Q, Rent, Closer Than Ever, Xanadu, Patti Murin Wicked, Lysistrata Jones, Samia Najimy Finnerty, N'Kenge Motown The Musical, Sondheim on Sondheim, Orfeh Legally Blonde, The Gershwins' Fascinating Rhythm, Love, Janis, Saturday Night Fever, Jarrod SpectorJersey Boys, Les Miserables and American Idol Finalist Erika Van Pelt will comprise the lineup for the June 10 edition of The Pop Show, part of the Broadway at Birdland series at Birdland Jazz Club. The 7pm concert will feature the songs of Adele.
- 5/21/2013
- by BWW News Desk
- BroadwayWorld.com
We’re finally past American Idol's pre-taped auditions and selectively-edited Hollywood Week. The field this year is wide open, with no distinct Scotty McCreery-esque favorite. But at last we can see the newest crop of judges, Mariah Carey, Keith Urban and Nicki Minaj, handing out their critiques… live. That means we can now fairly compare them to their predecessors on the panel. Are they better? Are they worse? It's time to get all judgey on the judges — and not just on the new guys, but all the previous panelists, too.
Without further adieu, my ranking of every American Idol judge from best to worst. Of course I totally nailed it, but feel free to disagree in the comments.
#1 Simon Cowell
Week after week and year after year, we were on pins to hear what the curmudgeonly Brit was going to say about contestants. And with good reason: he was usually spot on.
Without further adieu, my ranking of every American Idol judge from best to worst. Of course I totally nailed it, but feel free to disagree in the comments.
#1 Simon Cowell
Week after week and year after year, we were on pins to hear what the curmudgeonly Brit was going to say about contestants. And with good reason: he was usually spot on.
- 3/13/2013
- by willpollock
- The Backlot
Well, that was the weirdest possible way to introduce season 12's finalists to America, wouldn't you say? To recap, Ryan Seacrest sat the 20 remaining hopefuls in what looked like a cramped classroom (very Up the Down Staircase) and led each surviving finalist through a long corridor and to the stage for a victory performance. In case that wasn't bizarre enough, Ryan sometimes gave the performers little pep talks before they hit the stage. And we all know what a sympathetic character Seacrest is.
"You did it. All the hard work paid off," Seacrest muttered to Candice Glover like a scripted high-school guidance counselor. So, so weird.
Here's what's important. The ten finalists (chosen by home viewer votes) were announced, and now it's our job to rank them in two ways: 1) by merit, based solely on who deserves to be the next American Idol most; 2) by likeliness to win, based solely...
"You did it. All the hard work paid off," Seacrest muttered to Candice Glover like a scripted high-school guidance counselor. So, so weird.
Here's what's important. The ten finalists (chosen by home viewer votes) were announced, and now it's our job to rank them in two ways: 1) by merit, based solely on who deserves to be the next American Idol most; 2) by likeliness to win, based solely...
- 3/8/2013
- by virtel
- The Backlot
Ten dames stepped up to the mic on Wednesday night. Nine of them sang. One of them exploded.
And was rewarded for it.
And... I'm fine with it? Let this be a lesson to everyone: If you are a fine singer who gets an opportunity to wow the nation on American Idol, but you choose the lite-fm nonchalance of Alicia Keys' "No One," maybe you deserve to finish between 20th and 40th place. Maybe I think that's justified, Cristabel Clacky. And maybe if you're a howling claymation clown sorceress named Zoanette Johnson who sets the bar for unthinkable camp monstrosities with a performance of (wait for it) "The Circle of Life," maybe you really do earn your place in the Top 20 -- even if you can't sing, control yourself, or really do anything except blubber and wail like a watercolor-drenched Pagliacci. Maybe.
Actually, I'm not sure. Zoanette Johnson was...
And was rewarded for it.
And... I'm fine with it? Let this be a lesson to everyone: If you are a fine singer who gets an opportunity to wow the nation on American Idol, but you choose the lite-fm nonchalance of Alicia Keys' "No One," maybe you deserve to finish between 20th and 40th place. Maybe I think that's justified, Cristabel Clacky. And maybe if you're a howling claymation clown sorceress named Zoanette Johnson who sets the bar for unthinkable camp monstrosities with a performance of (wait for it) "The Circle of Life," maybe you really do earn your place in the Top 20 -- even if you can't sing, control yourself, or really do anything except blubber and wail like a watercolor-drenched Pagliacci. Maybe.
Actually, I'm not sure. Zoanette Johnson was...
- 2/28/2013
- by virtel
- The Backlot
God, I love this part of American Idol. I love spending two hours on a weeknight exalting young chanteuses like mall-brand Aphrodites and sentencing losers to an eternity in Jimmy Iovine's jean-jacket dungeon. That's quality time with the TV for me.
We saw ten ladies trill for the attention of the increasingly articulate judges on Wednesday, and five of them were booted before the night was over. So satisfying! Take your Charlotte Russe stylings and head back to Branson, losers. You can pick up that extra shift at Dave & Buster's after all.
Now, some general advice for the competing ten women we saw on Wednesday: Matter more. I'm blown away by anybody who seeks a career in entertainment and expects to be applauded for sheer technical skill. You also need to be special, and being special has to matter to you. Have you heard of Madonna? She mattered (and...
We saw ten ladies trill for the attention of the increasingly articulate judges on Wednesday, and five of them were booted before the night was over. So satisfying! Take your Charlotte Russe stylings and head back to Branson, losers. You can pick up that extra shift at Dave & Buster's after all.
Now, some general advice for the competing ten women we saw on Wednesday: Matter more. I'm blown away by anybody who seeks a career in entertainment and expects to be applauded for sheer technical skill. You also need to be special, and being special has to matter to you. Have you heard of Madonna? She mattered (and...
- 2/21/2013
- by virtel
- The Backlot
‘American Idol Live!’ 2012 touched down in Newark, N.J. on Tuesday night, and while the pacing of the show suffered more stops and starts than an octogenarian trying out a stick-shift for the first time, the Season 11 Top 10 nevertheless proved they have plenty of gas in their tanks as the tour enters its final two weeks.
Paired with the right material, a number of the finalists confirmed they can indeed command a stadium-sized crowd: Country gal Skylar Laine dropped charisma-bombs all the way to the cheap seats. Erika Van Pelt put on a display of vocal firepower that left me...
Paired with the right material, a number of the finalists confirmed they can indeed command a stadium-sized crowd: Country gal Skylar Laine dropped charisma-bombs all the way to the cheap seats. Erika Van Pelt put on a display of vocal firepower that left me...
- 8/29/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Disgraced "American Idol" contestant Jermaine Jones -- who was booted from last season for lying to producers about his criminal past -- has finally received some closure ... reuniting with his fellow finalists for the first time since he left the show.Jermaine tells TMZ, he bought tickets to the American Idol Live tour on Tuesday at the Wells Fargo Center in Philly -- and his friend Josh Ledet (who finished 3rd last season) hooked him up with backstage passes.
- 8/27/2012
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Jermaine Jones has reunited with his former American Idol co-stars. The singer was disqualified from this year's competition after it emerged that he had lied about his criminal background. Jones purchased tickets to the American Idol live tour on Tuesday (August 21) at Philadelphia's Wells Fargo Center. His friend and third placed-singer Josh Ledet gave him backstage passes. He was then able to reunite with his fellow season 11 contestants Jessica Sanchez, Colton Dixon, Skylar Laine, Erika Van Pelt, Phillip Phillips and DeAndre Brackensick for the first time since leaving the (more)...
- 8/27/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
Jermaine Jones has reunited with his former American Idol co-stars. The singer was disqualified from this year's competition after it emerged that he had lied about his criminal background. Jones purchased tickets to the American Idol live tour on Tuesday (August 21) at Philadelphia's Wells Fargo Center. His friend and third placed-singer Josh Ledet gave him backstage passes. He was then able to reunite with his fellow season 11 contestants Jessica Sanchez, Colton Dixon, Skylar Laine, Erika Van Pelt, Phillip Phillips and DeAndre Brackensick for the first time since leaving the (more)...
- 8/27/2012
- by By Tom Eames
- Digital Spy
We have added a new set of pictures from the event "American Idol Live! 2012 Tour Meet and Greet".Joshua Ledet during the American Idol Live! 2012 Tour Meet and Greet.Photo copyright by Daniel Locke / PR Photos. Erika Van Pelt during the American Idol Live! 2012 Tour Meet and Greet.Photo copyright by Daniel Locke / PR Photos. Jessica Sanchez during the American Idol Live! 2012 Tour Meet and Greet.Photo copyright by Daniel Locke / PR Photos. Hollie Cavanagh during the American Idol Live! 2012 Tour Meet and Greet.Photo copyright by Daniel Locke / PR Photos. Phillip Phillips during the American Idol Live! 2012 Tour Meet and Greet.Photo copyright by Daniel Locke / PR Photos. Heejun Han - American Idol Live!
- 7/25/2012
- by James Wray
- Monsters and Critics
For American Idol (TV) fans, nothing beats a concert packed with live music, psychedelic lights, and their very own Top Ten belting out the season's most popular Idol performances. This time, however, there's no judges, no tireless, never-ending commercials (except for the occasional, strategically placed plugs for Idol sponsored products), and no abbreviated songs. This year's Top Ten made Chicago their second stop in the 2012 American Idols Live! tour following an opening night in Detroit, Mi. Fresh out of rehearsals in Los Angeles, the tour is young, and the fatigue of a rigorous travel schedule and an inevitable bout or two of homesickness has not set in with it's cast. Full of excitement and anticipation, they are steadily making their way across America to meet their fans and spread some Idol love. On this occasion, three of the Idols - Colton Dixon, Joshua Ledet and Skylar Laine sat down with...
- 7/11/2012
- by jmaurer@corp.popstar.com (Jennifer Maurer)
- PopStar
Phillip Phillips has headed the recent launch of the American Idol tour in Detroit, Michigan. The Season 11 winner of the reality show was joined by Top 10 finalists DeAndre Brackensick, Hollie Cavanagh, Colton Dixon, Heejun Han, Skylar Laine, Joshua Ledet, Phillips, Jessica Sanchez, Elise Testone and Erika Van Pelt at the inaugural concert on Friday (July 6). Phillips, who made his appearance towards the end of the show, performed a four-song set, including his audition song 'Supersition' and his (more)...
- 7/7/2012
- by By Zeba Blay
- Digital Spy
Philip Phillips has spoken of his excitement about the upcoming American Idol tour. The tour, which kicks off on Friday, July 6 in Detroit, will feature this year's Top 10 finalists DeAndre Brackensick, Hollie Cavanagh, Colton Dixon, Heejun Han, Skylar Laine, Joshua Ledet, Phillips, Jessica Sanchez, Elise Testone and Erika Van Pelt. "It's going to be a lot of fun at the beginning, and then probably a few weeks into the tour - I give it about six weeks - people are probably are probably going to want (more)...
- 7/4/2012
- by By Kristina Bustos
- Digital Spy
'It's going to be a big learning experience,' says 'Idol' champ Phillip Phillips of the 45-city tour.
By Gil Kaufman, with reporting by Kelly Marino
Phillip Phillips at the 'Idols Live' Rehearsals
Photo:
It's hard enough for bands with one singer to get their musical heads together for a major summer tour. Just imagine coordinating a band with 10 lead singers and you can begin to see how much work goes into getting ready for this summer's American Idols Live! Tour featuring the top singers from season 11.The top 10 have begun getting things together for the tour, which kicks off on July 6 in Detroit. They gathered in a studio in Los Angeles on Wednesday to continue getting their act together. During an a cappella run through One Direction's "What Makes You Beautiful" a smiling Phillip Phillips stood in the back of the pack as fellow finalist Colton Dixon...
By Gil Kaufman, with reporting by Kelly Marino
Phillip Phillips at the 'Idols Live' Rehearsals
Photo:
It's hard enough for bands with one singer to get their musical heads together for a major summer tour. Just imagine coordinating a band with 10 lead singers and you can begin to see how much work goes into getting ready for this summer's American Idols Live! Tour featuring the top singers from season 11.The top 10 have begun getting things together for the tour, which kicks off on July 6 in Detroit. They gathered in a studio in Los Angeles on Wednesday to continue getting their act together. During an a cappella run through One Direction's "What Makes You Beautiful" a smiling Phillip Phillips stood in the back of the pack as fellow finalist Colton Dixon...
- 6/21/2012
- MTV Music News
America has voted, and Phillip Phillips is the new "American Idol!"The 21-year-old pawn shop worker from Georgia bested 16-year-old singing sensation Jessica Sanchez of California to claim the title. A record 132 million votes were cast in the finale.Phillip is the show's eleventh winner and the fifth male contestant in a row to win. His winning single, "Home," will be released this week.Phillip was consistently praised for his originality and never found himself in the bottom group. Jessica was actually the lowest vote getter among the Top 7, but got a reprieve from judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler.Had she won, Jessica would have been the first saved contestant to win "American Idol" and also the youngest (Jordin Sparks, "Idol's" last female winner, was 17 when she won Season 6).The two finalists will join Joshua Ledet, Hollie Cavanagh, Skylar Laine, Elise Testone, Colton Dixon, DeAndre Brackensick,...
- 5/24/2012
- by tooFab Staff
- TooFab
If the Phillip Phillips-vs.-Jessica Sanchez showdown of American Idol‘s eleventh season was an apples-vs-oranges kind of affair, then tonight’s season finale — featuring the inarguably terrific Top 13 12* — was a weird and occasionally wonderful smorgasbord. (*Uncle Nigel: “Jermaine Jones was just a figment of your imagination!”)
We had Season 3 champ Fantasia Barrino in a Crystal Gayle wig and, um, unfortunate spangled catsuit with side-leg cutouts (!) grabbing Joshua Ledet and turning the Nokia into a beautiful, howling messerie. We had John Fogerty, Reba McEntire, and Jordin Sparks dueting with Season 11 standouts Phillip Phillips, Skylar Laine, and Hollie Cavanagh.
Photos...
We had Season 3 champ Fantasia Barrino in a Crystal Gayle wig and, um, unfortunate spangled catsuit with side-leg cutouts (!) grabbing Joshua Ledet and turning the Nokia into a beautiful, howling messerie. We had John Fogerty, Reba McEntire, and Jordin Sparks dueting with Season 11 standouts Phillip Phillips, Skylar Laine, and Hollie Cavanagh.
Photos...
- 5/24/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
MTV News 'Idol' experts share their choices for the top two.
By Gil Kaufman and James Montgomery
Phillip Phillips and Jessica Sanchez
Photo: Fox
It's the final countdown. On Tuesday night (May 22), Phillip Phillips and Jessica Sanchez will face off for the season 11 crown, capping a roller-coaster ride filled with soaring highs — Sanchez's "I Will Always Love You," Joshua Ledet's "To Love Somebody," Skylar Laine's "Wind Beneath My Wings," that time Steven Tyler wore Roy Lichtenstein pants — and just as many crushing lows — Heejun Han's impromptu strip show, Colton Dixon's hair, Randy Jackson's collection of pins, etc. — with the majority, of course, falling somewhere in between. If anything, this season has given us more of the same: nothing more, nothing less.
Of course, through it all, our "American Idol" experts have stuck it out, providing us with their own, uh, unique insights and...
By Gil Kaufman and James Montgomery
Phillip Phillips and Jessica Sanchez
Photo: Fox
It's the final countdown. On Tuesday night (May 22), Phillip Phillips and Jessica Sanchez will face off for the season 11 crown, capping a roller-coaster ride filled with soaring highs — Sanchez's "I Will Always Love You," Joshua Ledet's "To Love Somebody," Skylar Laine's "Wind Beneath My Wings," that time Steven Tyler wore Roy Lichtenstein pants — and just as many crushing lows — Heejun Han's impromptu strip show, Colton Dixon's hair, Randy Jackson's collection of pins, etc. — with the majority, of course, falling somewhere in between. If anything, this season has given us more of the same: nothing more, nothing less.
Of course, through it all, our "American Idol" experts have stuck it out, providing us with their own, uh, unique insights and...
- 5/22/2012
- MTV Music News
Erika Van Pelt -- the 10th place finisher on this season's "American Idol" -- says Donna Summer gave her a huge leg up in her music career ... and now she wants to honor the Disco Queen's memory on the upcoming "A.I." concert tour. Van Pelt tells TMZ ... she opened for the singer during a fundraiser in Dallas last summer ... and feels she owes a huge chunk of her success to the experience. Erika...
- 5/18/2012
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
After consistently being seated in the bottom three of American Idol (TV) each week, Elise Testone's journey has finally come to an end. The 28 year-old rock/soul performer finished out her run last Thursday as Season 11's sixth place contestant. Are many surprised? Probably not. Some are disappointed nonetheless. Elise, who received a standing ovation from judges for her performance of Billy Joel's "Vienna," and yet another for her gritty rendition of Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love," demonstrated some fierce vocal chops on the show, but when all is sung and done, it's not just America's ears you have to win over, it's their hearts. In the end, Idol voters simply weren't feeling it. Elise sat down with journalists for a post-elimination interview to give her own account of the events leading up to her departure. She talked about public perception, her fellow contestants, and the judges occasional "confusion.
- 5/1/2012
- by jmaurer@corp.popstar.com (Jennifer Maurer)
- PopStar
Jennifer Lopez calls latest castoff a 'fighter' for speaking her mind during the show.
By James Montgomery, with reporting by Christina Garibaldi
Elise Testone
Photo: MTV News
Elise Testone's ouster from "American Idol" last week wasn't exactly shocking — after all, she'd practically built "a vacation home" in the bottom three (thanks Jimmy Iovine!). But that doesn't mean she ever really expected to go home either.
"I never really allowed myself to think about it," Testone told MTV News. "But, you know, it happened. I don't take it to heart; it's a TV show, you know? It's dramatic. People agree, they don't agree. No matter what you do, people are going to respect you and people aren't."
It's telling that Testone mentioned the whole agree/disagree thing, mostly because, during her time on the show, it seemed like the "Idol" judges could never truly agree on their critiques of her performances.
By James Montgomery, with reporting by Christina Garibaldi
Elise Testone
Photo: MTV News
Elise Testone's ouster from "American Idol" last week wasn't exactly shocking — after all, she'd practically built "a vacation home" in the bottom three (thanks Jimmy Iovine!). But that doesn't mean she ever really expected to go home either.
"I never really allowed myself to think about it," Testone told MTV News. "But, you know, it happened. I don't take it to heart; it's a TV show, you know? It's dramatic. People agree, they don't agree. No matter what you do, people are going to respect you and people aren't."
It's telling that Testone mentioned the whole agree/disagree thing, mostly because, during her time on the show, it seemed like the "Idol" judges could never truly agree on their critiques of her performances.
- 4/30/2012
- MTV Music News
The American Idol Live! summer tour — Season 11 edition — will kick off July 6 in Detroit, Michigan.
Top 10 finalists Colton Dixon, DeAndre Brackensick, Elise Testone, Erika Van Pelt, Heejun Han, Hollie Cavanagh, Jessica Sanchez, Joshua Ledet, Phillip Phillips and Skylar Laine will hit a total of 45 venues, with their final concert set for Sept. 11 in Milwaukee.
Tickets go on sale Friday, May 11, via AmericanIdol.com and other outlets.
Michael Slezak’s Idol Top 6 Results Recap: Any Way the Wind Blows, Doesn’t Really Matter
The group’s complete itinerary is as follows, per the official press release. Check it out and tell...
Top 10 finalists Colton Dixon, DeAndre Brackensick, Elise Testone, Erika Van Pelt, Heejun Han, Hollie Cavanagh, Jessica Sanchez, Joshua Ledet, Phillip Phillips and Skylar Laine will hit a total of 45 venues, with their final concert set for Sept. 11 in Milwaukee.
Tickets go on sale Friday, May 11, via AmericanIdol.com and other outlets.
Michael Slezak’s Idol Top 6 Results Recap: Any Way the Wind Blows, Doesn’t Really Matter
The group’s complete itinerary is as follows, per the official press release. Check it out and tell...
- 4/27/2012
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
The chicks and chavs of American Idol wailed two jams this week: one post-2000 anthem and one "soul" song in the tradition of Soul Train, the most phenomenal music series of all time. (Sorry, Dick Clark! I still watch $25,000 Pyramid reruns every day, so no disrespect.) Though it was awkward when Don Cornelius' son Tony appeared in the audience not two months after his father's self-destruction, much of the night was a splendid musical spectacular. Hot. And a couple of beleaguered contestants rebirthed and came alive for the first time in weeks. Wee!
Now, if I were performing this week, I'd have chosen "Work It" by Missy Elliott (I love inventive vagina slang!) and "Ease on Down the Road" from The Wiz. Both would feature Timbaland in a scarecrow costume, if that helps you to understand my vision. Onward to our rankings!
7. Colton Dixon, Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance" and Earth,...
Now, if I were performing this week, I'd have chosen "Work It" by Missy Elliott (I love inventive vagina slang!) and "Ease on Down the Road" from The Wiz. Both would feature Timbaland in a scarecrow costume, if that helps you to understand my vision. Onward to our rankings!
7. Colton Dixon, Lady Gaga's "Bad Romance" and Earth,...
- 4/19/2012
- by virtel
- The Backlot
Well, the final American Idol Wild Card pick has left the competition. After Jeremy Rosado and Erika Van Pelt were eliminated, we knew it was only a matter of time before we said so long to DeAndre Brackensick. DeAndre showed promise, but mentor Jimmy Iovine noted after his final performance that DeAndre was "not great" and "growing marginally." It seemed the 16-year old couldn't keep up with the rest of the competition.
DeAndre Brackensick made it to the American Idol green mile episode last season, with very little screen time to call his own, and in the final cuts the judges determined that he wasn't ready. He stood out in the Season 10 group round, for his group full of youngsters (and their moms) who sang "Somebody to Love" by Queen. DeAndre wrangled some more screen time in Season 11, but wasn't able to get into the voters' Top 10 after the Top 25 performances.
DeAndre Brackensick made it to the American Idol green mile episode last season, with very little screen time to call his own, and in the final cuts the judges determined that he wasn't ready. He stood out in the Season 10 group round, for his group full of youngsters (and their moms) who sang "Somebody to Love" by Queen. DeAndre wrangled some more screen time in Season 11, but wasn't able to get into the voters' Top 10 after the Top 25 performances.
- 4/6/2012
- by editor@buddytv.com
- buddytv.com
'She seems to lose confidence by the week,' said 'Idol' blogger Mj Santilli about Hollie Cavanagh.
By Gil Kaufman
DeAndre Brackensick and judges Randy Jackson, Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez on "American Idol" on Thursday
Photo: Fox
In years past, booted contestants offered bland platitudes about the helpful judges and their "amazing journey" on "American Idol" and how they've grown and learned so much from the show.
But this season the gloves appear to have come off, with some singers flat out accusing Randy, Steven and Jennifer of messing with their heads by offering head-spinning advice that sends them sprinting in one direction one week only to turn around and jet the other way the next.
"They are hurting the contestants with confusing advice," said Mj Santilli, founder of the popular "Idol' blog MJsbigblog. "What makes it worse are the 'battles' between the panel and mentor Jimmy Iovine.
By Gil Kaufman
DeAndre Brackensick and judges Randy Jackson, Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez on "American Idol" on Thursday
Photo: Fox
In years past, booted contestants offered bland platitudes about the helpful judges and their "amazing journey" on "American Idol" and how they've grown and learned so much from the show.
But this season the gloves appear to have come off, with some singers flat out accusing Randy, Steven and Jennifer of messing with their heads by offering head-spinning advice that sends them sprinting in one direction one week only to turn around and jet the other way the next.
"They are hurting the contestants with confusing advice," said Mj Santilli, founder of the popular "Idol' blog MJsbigblog. "What makes it worse are the 'battles' between the panel and mentor Jimmy Iovine.
- 4/6/2012
- MTV Music News
To make it to the “American Idol” finals, you need a lot of things – talent, that’s a big one, and that’s something you’re born with… but you also need confidence, perseverance, and a thick skin. Those are things that come from experience, things you learn as you deal with life and its little curve balls. So we asked the “Idol” finalists about the biggest life lesson they had to find out the hard way.
What Hollie Cavanagh learned was what everyone struggles with at some moment in their life. (Click on audio player to hear Hollie) Hollie Cavanagh
Jessica Sanchez almost had it all and considers American Idol to be her second chance. (Click on audio player to hear Jessica)Jessica Sanchez
After watching Joshua Ledet this season, it blew us away at what his response was. (Click on audio player to hear Joshua) Joshua Ledet
Make...
What Hollie Cavanagh learned was what everyone struggles with at some moment in their life. (Click on audio player to hear Hollie) Hollie Cavanagh
Jessica Sanchez almost had it all and considers American Idol to be her second chance. (Click on audio player to hear Jessica)Jessica Sanchez
After watching Joshua Ledet this season, it blew us away at what his response was. (Click on audio player to hear Joshua) Joshua Ledet
Make...
- 3/31/2012
- by foxallaccess
- Fox All Access
I've had 24 hours to process Wednesday's American Idol, and I can re-confirm that it's a damn good episode: inspired song choices (Elise Testone's "Whole Lotta Love" is the season's highpoint), eye-popping revelations (Stevie Nicks telling Phillip Phillips that -- wait for it -- Mick Fleetwood would've invited him to join Fleetwood Mac's biggest lineup, had he been around in the '70s), and polarizing performances (Colton Dixon's lachrymose Lifehouse cover, anyone?).
But the frontrunners were clear. Did this translate to a justified elimination during Thursday's show? Scroll down to see who -- if anyone -- was catapulted to a faraway field that could inspire Scotty McCreery's next twangy hit.
The bottom three included Teenage Holly Hunter Prom Princess Skylar Laine, tiny, worried-looking Hollie Cavanagh, and the reformed joker Heejun Han. The judges laughed and denied the loser a save, so that means it's time to say goodbye to.
But the frontrunners were clear. Did this translate to a justified elimination during Thursday's show? Scroll down to see who -- if anyone -- was catapulted to a faraway field that could inspire Scotty McCreery's next twangy hit.
The bottom three included Teenage Holly Hunter Prom Princess Skylar Laine, tiny, worried-looking Hollie Cavanagh, and the reformed joker Heejun Han. The judges laughed and denied the loser a save, so that means it's time to say goodbye to.
- 3/30/2012
- by virtel
- The Backlot
The American Idol judges decided against saving Erika Van Pelt last week, a decision she said left her feeling shafted. Unless the judges use their save, another contestant will be leaving us tonight.
But first we'll have our usual commentary by the voice of reason, Jimmy Iovine, as well as performances from Nicki Minaj and Idol Season 10 winner Scotty McCreery. That is, if we can ever get through the advertisements for Ford, the upcoming Aerosmith Global Warming tour, and watching the Top 9 flip out over tiny pantries, closets bigger than my house, and bidets in the Idol mansion.
Elise Testone, Phillip Phillips, and Hollie Cavanagh take the stage first. Jimmy says Elise did herself a lot of good last night and totally agrees with me that Elise being older than the other female contestants is working in her favor. She's got the charisma and ability to command an audience that...
But first we'll have our usual commentary by the voice of reason, Jimmy Iovine, as well as performances from Nicki Minaj and Idol Season 10 winner Scotty McCreery. That is, if we can ever get through the advertisements for Ford, the upcoming Aerosmith Global Warming tour, and watching the Top 9 flip out over tiny pantries, closets bigger than my house, and bidets in the Idol mansion.
Elise Testone, Phillip Phillips, and Hollie Cavanagh take the stage first. Jimmy says Elise did herself a lot of good last night and totally agrees with me that Elise being older than the other female contestants is working in her favor. She's got the charisma and ability to command an audience that...
- 3/30/2012
- by miranda.wicker@gmail.com (Miranda W.)
- TVfanatic
Watching this week’s American Idol performance show was like going to a four-star restaurant for an incredible multi-course meal (under the watchful eye of head chef Stevie Nicks) only to get pestered by the Three Busboys of the Apocalypse to fill up on the stuff jangling around in their white paper McDonald’s bags: “Yes, yes, the Maine Peekytoe Crab with maroon carrot, volcanic garlic, and pickled carrot sorbet looks sublime, but this McRib with a side of McNuggets is what’s going to bring you to your feet with ecstacy!” Say what now?
There are, of course, a...
There are, of course, a...
- 3/29/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
What happens when wannabe idols take on the music of their own idols? On Wednesday's episode of American Idol, the top nine contestants tackled tunes by their heroes, bringing out some of the most inspired performances so far this season - as well as a bevy of standing ovations from the judges. Jennifer Lopez, Randy Jackson and Steven Tyler were out of their seats and clapping for Heejun Han, DeAndre Brackensick, Phillip Phillips, Joshua Ledet and Elise Testone. "This is too much," Jennifer said. "It's funny, we're standing up too much tonight. It's crazy. You guys are doing amazing." And...
- 3/29/2012
- by Kevin O'Donnell
- PEOPLE.com
It was a “night of redemption” on American Idol, said Ryan Seacrest. Or, as Steven Tyler put it, “a magical mystery tour of over-the-top talent and emotion.” Then again, from my living-room couch, it was more like “a night when even middling guys got standing ovations from the judges, while the best ladies received ‘praise’ with a side of vague ennui, until it came down to, ‘Oh, okay, I guess we’ll get off our lazy butts for Elise.’”
To be fair, Season 11′s Top 9 telecast was pretty damn stellar, one of the best Idol performance nights in recent memory.
To be fair, Season 11′s Top 9 telecast was pretty damn stellar, one of the best Idol performance nights in recent memory.
- 3/29/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Erika Van Pelt has confessed that she felt "shafted" by her American Idol experience. The 26-year-old Rhode Island native was eliminated from the Fox singing competition last week, with judges Jennifer Lopez, Randy Jackson and Steven Tyler choosing not to use their one save of the season on her. Van Pelt has since revealed that she was surprised by the result, as she felt that her talent warranted her a place in further stages of the show and was disappointed with the panellists for not keeping her around. "I definitely felt a little shafted by their decision not to save me. It's one of those things that, in hindsight, I'm looking at it like they (more)...
- 3/28/2012
- by By Jennifer Still
- Digital Spy
Randy Jackson said she was one of the best singers in the competition. But the American Idol judge and his costars, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler, weren't willing to save Erika Van Pelt from elimination last week. Now, the DJ and singer from Rhode Island is voicing her opinion on her early departure, which she says took her by surprise. "I definitely felt a little shafted by their decision not to save me," she tells People, referring to the panel's ability to veto the audience's decision one time during the season. "It's one of those things that,...
- 3/28/2012
- by Alison Schwartz and Aaron Parsley
- PEOPLE.com
In four weeks of live performances during American Idol‘s 11th season, Erika Van Pelt got accused of both oversinging and holding too much back vocally, rocked long blonde hair and a short brunette ‘do, and grappled with a mic she forgot was turned on, a medical problem that she chose not to publicly discuss, and a dress that cut off her air supply. Idology caught up with Erika to discuss all those topics, plus why she doesn’t consider herself a rock singer, whose song she coveted during Top 13 week, and how she and fellow “old lady” Elise Testone...
- 3/28/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
'It helped me come out of my shell a little bit more,' singer tells MTV News of Tommy Hilfiger-assisted makeover.
By Christina Garibaldi
Erika Van Pelt
Photo: MTV News
"American Idol" contestant Erika Van Pelt may have disagreed with the judges' critiques of her rendition of Billy Joel's "New York State of Mind," but with the help of famed designer Tommy Hilfiger, she may have stolen the show when she drastically changed up her hairstyle from mid-length blond to a short black cut. But unfortunately for Van Pelt, it wasn't enough to save her from elimination from the show.
Even though Van Pelt won't be rocking out on the "Idol" stage anymore, she has no regrets about her makeover.
"I love it, and it's funny 'cause everyone was so shocked," Van Pelt told MTV News on Monday. "I've gotten good responses, but they're like, 'Wow you really did that?...
By Christina Garibaldi
Erika Van Pelt
Photo: MTV News
"American Idol" contestant Erika Van Pelt may have disagreed with the judges' critiques of her rendition of Billy Joel's "New York State of Mind," but with the help of famed designer Tommy Hilfiger, she may have stolen the show when she drastically changed up her hairstyle from mid-length blond to a short black cut. But unfortunately for Van Pelt, it wasn't enough to save her from elimination from the show.
Even though Van Pelt won't be rocking out on the "Idol" stage anymore, she has no regrets about her makeover.
"I love it, and it's funny 'cause everyone was so shocked," Van Pelt told MTV News on Monday. "I've gotten good responses, but they're like, 'Wow you really did that?...
- 3/27/2012
- MTV Music News
There’s this weird part of the week — from Friday morning till Monday evening — when not a single major TV network airs a reality singing competition. It’s terrible, I know, but it also gives me a lot of time to ponder American Idol history. (Everyone does this in their free time, yes?) And my latest flight of Idol fancy got me mulling this question: Was Season 11′s Top 10 the strongest — top to bottom — in show history? Let’s examine:
For starters, I’d automatically rule out the five seasons with three or more Top 10 contestants who probably wouldn’t have outlasted Season 11′s No.
For starters, I’d automatically rule out the five seasons with three or more Top 10 contestants who probably wouldn’t have outlasted Season 11′s No.
- 3/26/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
'I think a lot of your fate rides on what sort of light [the judges] shed on you,' latest castoff tells MTV News.
By Christina Garibaldi
Photo: Fox
"American Idol" fans might still be scratching their heads as to why Erika Van Pelt was sent home on last week's episode. With a brand-new makeover, the singer took on Billy Joel's "New York State of Mind" and received mostly positive feedback from the judges, so when she was eliminated, it not only shocked fans, but Van Pelt as well.
"I've been in the bottom [for] four consecutive weeks. I wasn't surprised at that. Getting eliminated, I felt a little robbed, I can't lie," she told MTV News on Monday (March 26). "Everything happens for a reason."
Looking back at her time on "Idol," Van Pelt said she felt "confused" by the judges' remarks, especially for her latest performance, and feels that their changing critiques may have swayed voters.
By Christina Garibaldi
Photo: Fox
"American Idol" fans might still be scratching their heads as to why Erika Van Pelt was sent home on last week's episode. With a brand-new makeover, the singer took on Billy Joel's "New York State of Mind" and received mostly positive feedback from the judges, so when she was eliminated, it not only shocked fans, but Van Pelt as well.
"I've been in the bottom [for] four consecutive weeks. I wasn't surprised at that. Getting eliminated, I felt a little robbed, I can't lie," she told MTV News on Monday (March 26). "Everything happens for a reason."
Looking back at her time on "Idol," Van Pelt said she felt "confused" by the judges' remarks, especially for her latest performance, and feels that their changing critiques may have swayed voters.
- 3/26/2012
- MTV Music News
It’s not every day you see an American Idol hopeful blatantly disregard the advice of a big-name mentor, but Season 11′s Top 10 Week — focusing on the music of Billy Joel — saw multiple instances of contestant rebellion against music advisors Jimmy Iovine and Diddy, and style guru Tommy Hilfiger. Whether Phillip Phillips and Heejun Han, in particular, disrespected the Idol process or simply stood up for themselves as artists is a key subject of discussion between Season 6 standout Melinda Doolittle and myself on this week’s Idology.
Melinda and I also dish breakout performances by Elise Testone and Colton Dixon,...
Melinda and I also dish breakout performances by Elise Testone and Colton Dixon,...
- 3/26/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Recently eliminated American Idol contestant Erika Van Pelt says she enjoyed her experience on the program, but she has a bone to pick with judge Jennifer Lopez. "I didn't agree with [Jennifer's] critique," the newly shorn singer said Friday of the performance that sent her packing. "I was singing 'New York State of Mind.' Anyone who's seen Billy Joel sing this song has seen Billy Joel sit behind a piano the entire time and still sell it." "I'd love to see you let loose vocally but let loose your body too," Lopez told Pelt on the show. "I wanted to...
- 3/23/2012
- by Dahvi Shira
- PEOPLE.com
Although American Idol stylist Tommy Hilfiger is an easy scapegoat to blame for the disappointing elimination of Rhode Island DJ Erika Van Pelt on Thursday night’s American Idol, Van Pelt is very clear that she has no regrets. In fact, Van Pelt admitted that she is quite daring when it comes to her hair and was considering a change long before her meeting with Hilfiger, mainly because she felt like she was “drowning in a sea of blondes.” However, the producers weren’t on board with the idea. Photos: 'American Idol' Season 11 Top 13 “Every time I asked to
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- 3/23/2012
- by Michele Amabile Angermiller
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
After three weeks in a row of less-than-contemporary music on "American Idol," the Top 9 will have a chance to liven things up when they sing songs from their own idols.
That's not to say the finalists won't choose artists from before their time, but considering the fact that Whitney Houston/Stevie Wonder week, songs from the year you were born week and Billy Joel week have all proven difficult for many of the contestants, this might be a great opportunity to liven things up a little bit.
Executive producer Nigel Lythgoe tweeted after the Top 10 results show that saw 26-year-old Erika Van Pelt flying back home to New England (new haircut and all) that the Top 9 would be singing songs from artists like "Beyonce, Mariah, Miranda, Lifehouse, Daughtry, Led Zeppelin."
An interesting mix -- shall we match the Idols with their heroes? For our money, we're betting Miranda Lambert goes to Skylar Laine,...
That's not to say the finalists won't choose artists from before their time, but considering the fact that Whitney Houston/Stevie Wonder week, songs from the year you were born week and Billy Joel week have all proven difficult for many of the contestants, this might be a great opportunity to liven things up a little bit.
Executive producer Nigel Lythgoe tweeted after the Top 10 results show that saw 26-year-old Erika Van Pelt flying back home to New England (new haircut and all) that the Top 9 would be singing songs from artists like "Beyonce, Mariah, Miranda, Lifehouse, Daughtry, Led Zeppelin."
An interesting mix -- shall we match the Idols with their heroes? For our money, we're betting Miranda Lambert goes to Skylar Laine,...
- 3/23/2012
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Michael Becker / Fox Erika Van Pelt is eliminated on “American Idol” on March 22.
The elimination of Erika Van Pelt means another wildcard save bit the dust last night on “American Idol” leaving just Deandre still standing after Jeremy was voted out last week. Jermaine, brought back from elimination randomly, was permanently eliminated once the judges became aware he had warrants outstanding for his arrest.
For the Rhode Island born Erika, who hoped her last song would earn her the one judges’ save of the season,...
The elimination of Erika Van Pelt means another wildcard save bit the dust last night on “American Idol” leaving just Deandre still standing after Jeremy was voted out last week. Jermaine, brought back from elimination randomly, was permanently eliminated once the judges became aware he had warrants outstanding for his arrest.
For the Rhode Island born Erika, who hoped her last song would earn her the one judges’ save of the season,...
- 3/23/2012
- by Stephanie Krikorian
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
To make it into the Top 9, the “American Idol” finalists had to master songs from the “Piano Man.” But was Billy Joel’s soft rock too hard for the “Idol” contestants? We asked two of the judges following Thursday night’s elimination, where Erika Van Pelt was sent home, and got two different answers. Joel’s former labelmate, Steven Tyler, told us he thought the songs are very difficult to perform. (Click on the audio player to hear Steven Tyler) Judge 2 Jennifer Lopez, though, took a different view, and said Joel’s songs aren’t that hard to sing. (Click on the audio player to hear Jennifer Lopez) Judge 5 Next week, the remaining nine contestants get to sing songs from artists they consider their own idols. Who will they choose? And who will emulate their idols well enough to move on? Find out when the “American Idol” finalists perform next Wednesday at 8/7c on Fox.
- 3/23/2012
- by foxallaccess
- Fox All Access
It was the hairdo that shocked American Idol viewers Wednesday night. Unfortunately, Erika Van Pelt's drastic hair change got the audience talking, just not voting, as she was eliminated last night. So does she regret cutting and dying her hair? Erika spoke with reporters on a conference call this morning to talk about the hair change. And the vocal injury you never knew she had! Plus, has she spoken with Jermaine Jones, her fellow contestant who was disqualified from the competition last week? "Very, very dramatic," she says with a laugh when her drastic new 'do is brought up. "I'm sure it confused some people that may have a little trouble either with change or thinking...
- 3/23/2012
- E! Online
American Idol dropkicked another contestant back to the Six Flags circuit this week, and I'm assuming it's not who you wanted. Because it's not who I wanted. And I know you agree with me! Truly, we should chat about Idol on Skype all day while our bosses wag their mean index fingers disapprovingly.
We had ten contestants left, but now we're down to nine. Who went home? Was it Heejun (for his asthmatic rendition of "My Life"), Joshua Ledet (who fumbled this week with his not-gay-enough version of "She's Got a Way" -- please stay gay, J.L.!), or Hollie Cavanagh (who's a fine singer, but her ballad thing has expired, Toscano*-style).
Nope, this week's loser is...
Damn, it's the feisty and super-talented Erika Van Pelt! If booting the handsome female contestant right as she adopts Rosie O'Donnell's post-Taboo hairdo isn't a hate crime, then I don't understand anything.
We had ten contestants left, but now we're down to nine. Who went home? Was it Heejun (for his asthmatic rendition of "My Life"), Joshua Ledet (who fumbled this week with his not-gay-enough version of "She's Got a Way" -- please stay gay, J.L.!), or Hollie Cavanagh (who's a fine singer, but her ballad thing has expired, Toscano*-style).
Nope, this week's loser is...
Damn, it's the feisty and super-talented Erika Van Pelt! If booting the handsome female contestant right as she adopts Rosie O'Donnell's post-Taboo hairdo isn't a hate crime, then I don't understand anything.
- 3/23/2012
- by virtel
- The Backlot
Erika tells HollywoodLife.com she regrets never getting her 'moment' in the competition. American Idol viewers were stunned March 22 when Erika Van Pelt was eliminated, despite a beautiful performance of "New York State Of Mind" the night before. And even though she tried her best to sing for her life, the judges denied her their one save. HollywoodLife.com was backstage after the show, when Erika revealed how she really felt about being voted out of the competition. What’s the plan now? "What’s the plan now? The plan is to get a ton of sleep, then get pumped to go on tour. Honestly, here’s the thing: I’m not gonna lie. It really stinks to be the first of the top ten to go home. I’m not gonna make any excuses for that. It really, really is crappy. But on the other side of the coin obviously,...
- 3/23/2012
- by HL Staff
- HollywoodLife
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