There have been several posts here about Becky Hobbs, but just in case you might have missed them, let me reintroduce her.
Picture a couple of junior high kids walking home together from the shopping center in a small Oklahoma town in the 1960's. She has just purchased "I Wanna Hold Your Hand."
The young man tries to impress the young lady who is a talented musician and is already composing songs.
He says, "You know the Beatles will never make it."
She smiles.
Fast forward to today. Those two adults still laugh about his prediction and are still good friends.
And, Becky has continued to write hit songs . . . Angels Among Us, one of Alabama's greatest hits, George on the Jukebox, one of her hits. Becky has also written songs recorded by Conway Twitty, George Jones, Loretta Lynn, Glen Campbell, Emmylou Harris, Helen Reddy, John Anderson, Wanda Jackson, , Janie Fricke, Lacy J. Dalton, Moe Bandy, Shelly West, Helen Reddy, Shirley Bassey, Jane Oliver, Ken Mellons. . . just to name a few.
In 1988, Becky's co-written song "You Are," recorded by Glen Campbell and Emmylou Harris, was nominated for a Grammy in the "Best Country & Western Vocal Performance -Duet category.
It was my pleasure to finally meet Becky several years ago in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, at the Price Tower. That same town small town mentioned above.
My day had started about 6:00 a.m. preparing for a birthday party. It almost ended with me being dead-dog tired in bed, and certainly not expecting to meet theHansMan's old flame who now lives in Nashville.
There was not one inch of makeup on my face, my hair was still wet from the shower, and I had on a pair of 'men's-cut-pajamas' with a pattern that made me look like I had been attacked by a leopard . . . with the leopard winning.
The conversation went something like this:
Him: Come on. Get out of bed. We're going to have a glass of wine with Becky.
Me: No, WE'RE not.
Him: She's waiting for us. Come on.
Me: I'm in my pajamas.
Him: She won't care.
Me: I care.
Him: She'll never notice.
Me: Is she blind ?
Him: No. She's nice and she'll understand that you're tired and were already in bed and that I dragged you out of bed and that you don't always look this bad.
Me: Thanks.
So, we knocked on Becky's door and she greeted us looking like she had stepped out of a band box. . . blonde hair perfectly coiffed, a gorgeous 'cowgirl' outfit, complete with boots. . . and make-up.
Did I mention I was in my pajamas and was barefoot ?
theHansMan's old flame couldn't have been any sweeter, and I wouldn't trade that memory for anything. We sat and had a glass of wine and enjoyed the view of Bartlesville from the Price Tower.
Becky's latest album, Nanyehi, Beloved Woman of the Cherokee, which she considers “her life’s work” is a tribute to her great Cherokee heritage. It was inspired by the life of her Fifth Great-grandmother, Nancy Ward (1738-1822), who went to battle at age seventeen and led the Cherokee to victory. After being honored as a War Woman, she advocated for peace and forgiveness over war and anger, and rose to the highest rank possible for a Cherokee woman.
One of my favorite songs on that album is Pale Moon.
Listen to the words very carefully. Some of the most beautiful lyrics EVER !
Michelle Honaker is singing in the first video.
Becky is singing in the second video . . .
The World Premiere of Nanyehi - Beloved Woman of the Cherokee:
Hartwell,Georgia
Lonnie Burns Fine Arts Center
April 14-29, 2o12
Reserve Tickets: 706-376-7397
Song Writer: Becky Hobbs
Director/Co-Writer: Nick Sweet
"Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life."
---Red Auerbach
"A painter paints pictures on canvas. But a musician paints pictures on silence."
---Leopold Stukowski
"I believe there are angels among us, sent down to us from somewhere up above. They come to you and me in our darkest hour, to show us how to live, to teach us how to give, to guide us with the light of love."
---Becky Hobbs
I took this photo of The Beckaroo at Grand Junction's Country Jam in 2007.
In the order of appearance with quotes from Stephen, Jennifer, and Randy with a few of my own sprinkled in here and there.
1)
Paul: (Old Time Rock & Roll ~ Bob Seger)
I want his Porter Wagoner/Marty Robbins suit ! An oxymoron with his voice/style singing this song. Put on your sunglasses because his teeth are even whiter than ever.
"Wild Abandon."
"Good on You."
"Sax with Paul."
2)
Lauren: (The Climb ~Miley Cyrus)
She owned that song and sang it much better than Miley ever could.
Great hair tonight.
"Tear in Her Voice"
The only thing about Lauren that I connect with is that drawl.
3)
Stefano (End of the Road ~ Boys II Men)
Just a bit disappointed that Stefano was singing tonight instead of Pia.
Will this be the "End of the Road OR The Beginning of the Road for him?" Who dressed him ? BUT, he slammed it tonight.
"Milked the Song"
"Singing to win it instead of singing to just stay."
He does have a great voice.
4)
Scotty (Cross My Heart ~ George Strait)
"And don't call me Dude, Dude."
He picked the just right song tonight. Who can go wrong with George ?
"If it ain't broke, don't even consider fixing it."
"A Star is Born"
If Pia was dumped because she didn't "dance all over the stage," Scotty better get off his stool.
5)
Casey (Nature Boy ~ Nat King Cole)
"Didn't take the advice from the experts . . . better be right."
I think he was. He knew what he wanted to sing, and he sang it, and he played it.
Jazzy ! I like jazz. First time I really liked it was at the "Underground Wonder Bar" in Chicago, not to be confused with the "Underwire Wonder Bra."
Cleans up really well. Nice new look !
Slow start. Great ending. He crosses the boundaries.
"Unique." "Brillliant." "Genuis."
"He is an artist."
6)
Haley (Call Me ~ Blondie)
First note(s) totally off key . . . weren't they ?
"Not a showcase for her voice."
"That thing you got on is gorgeous."
Her boots were longer than her dress.
Haley is not my favorite, but she has improved in the past few weeks.
7)
Jacob (Bridge Over Troubled Water ~ Simon & Garfunkel et al.)
"Don't preach to people. You aren't a star yet."
I still want to hear him sing gospel. Couldn't he have chosen something from "Oh Brother Where Art Thou?"
"Angelic"
Puts everything into the song.
"What note was that?"
8)
James (Heavy Metal ~ Sammy Hagar)
"Give Metal a Chance."
I don't like heavy metal, but I like James.
He IS a performer ! I hope this wasn't his "ONE WAY TICKET" home.
"That felt really, really REAL."
"Happy you stuck to your guns."
Zakk Wylde . . . wow !
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So, who's your favorite ? The whole spectrum is here. Is it down to the genre of music or the artist ?
My favorite tonight is James singing my least favorite type of music.
Scotty and Casey follow right behind him.
Jacob and Paul next.
Then, Haley . . . Stefano . . . Lauren . . . in no particular LAST order.
Wow ! Thursday is a busy day here . . . And because I'm getting ready to hop on my broom and head to Georgia in the very near future, I'm finding that the hurrider I go, the behinder I get.
There are other Shoot Me participants on this link.
The idea of "Shoot Me" is to post photos of ourselves. Since I'm usually behind the camera, and there aren't any current pictures of me that I care to post, here's a collage of some vintage photos from many, many years ago.
Hopefully, it will give you a little giggle:
And now, here's the rundown from last night's American Idol.
My first thought was that American Idol Week #5 could be titled: "The Other Side."
We saw "the other side" of several of the contestants as they left their comfort zones singing a diverse range of material from artists who are members of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. At this point, my choices are based more on if I liked the song the contestant sang, or liked the outfit s/he had on, or the choreography . . .
In other words, I like ALL the talent I saw from each of these young people last night.
Here's how they stacked up for me:
1) James (While My Guitar Gently Weeps) Such a change of pace for him. Gentle. Noticed that while the judges talked to James, he didn't twitch one time. He seemed so calm even though he was visibly emotional.
2) Pia (River Deep Mountain HIgh) She is still such a natural. Would like to see her "dance," rather than just standing in one spot. I'll just bet she has that "Latin-movement" in her. How do you spell g-o-r-g-e-o-u-s ? Her hair. Her make up. That necklace. BUT, what was up with that spotted zebra clown suit? Could she not have found any outfit less becoming ?
3) Scotty (That's Alright Mama) What was Stephen's comment ? I replayed it several times and never could understand. "All ________and no cattle." Huh? Really liked this arrangement of the song. It seemed so strange watching Scotty sing it and not seeing Elvis shaking his hips. I liked that he didn't sing a lot of really low notes this week.
The rest are all a tie for 4th place listed in the order they performed:
Jacob (Man in the Mirror) Liked his white suit. For a few seconds, I thought Naima was singing with him, then learned that it was the song's co-writer, Siedah Garrett.
Haley (Piece of My Heart) Not a fan of Janis Joplin but thought she did an outstanding job with her bluesy growls. I just can't connect with Haley even though I do like her much more than in her earlier performances.
Casey (Have You Ever Seen the Rain) Love it when Casey plays the bass. He seems to be a well-rounded musician and I like his personality. In the beginning, for me it seemed Casey was going to run away with the competition, but others have begun to catch up with him with their performances.
Lauren (Natural Woman) Finally, I connected just a tad with her soulful-country rendition of this song. Loved that jacket-vest. What the heck was on her lower half ? Balloon shorts? Are you kidding ? She could have worn a sleek, tight, short black skirt that would have been more flattering.
Stefano (When a Man Loves a Woman) He started out at a fairly slow pace but ended up getting the audience members on their feet. He has a great voice. Good job with Percy's song.
Paul (Folsom Prison Blues) He is just all over the place with personality. Such a unique style and voice.
One last fashion statement question: What the heck did Randy have on ? A patent leather shiny black jacket ?
With that, you can see I'm not much on critiquing the contestant as a musical artist. I liked all nine songs. My feeble little mind focused on other things. Bascially, I'm just enjoying watching the show and for the first time since I've been watching American Idol, not hoping for someone to hurry and get voted off.
What are your thoughts ?
I. Can't. Do. It !
I. Just. Can't. Do. It !
I. Can't. Choose. Who. I. Want. To. Go. Home !
Not only do I want all ELEVEN contestants to stay, I want Karen to be able to tour with the group. I mean, really. There were supposed to only be TEN. Then, the judges saved Casey. I'm glad. So, Ryan said that instead of TEN going on tour, all ELEVEN would go on tour. Come on. What's one more ? Make it an Even-Stephen-Dozen. Call Karen and invited her to come along . . . somebody ?
Here they are in order of their performances:
Scotty
Naima
Paul
Pia
Stefano
Lauren
James
Thia
Casey
Jacob
Haley
OK. It's your turn to post your opinions FIRST. I'll come back tomorrow with my take on things, for whatever that's worth . . .
In the meantime, here's a synopsis of what Lisa (Henslee's Heartland Shop) had to say about last week. Talk about a dedicated blog reader/commenter . . .
. . . and then there were eleven !
It's Motown Week !
March 23 & 24
March 23:
Here are my picks for this week:
1. James Durbin: Livin' for the City
Amazing performance ! I like him more and more each week.
2. Naima Adedapo: Dancing in the Street
And dance she did. She's ranked here because of theHansMan. He is mesmerized by her.
3. Pia Toscano: All in Love is Fair
Still like Pia a lot, but hope that she sings something a bit more upbeat next week. Would like to see her move around the stage.
4. Casey Abrams: Heard It through the Grapevine
He just seems a wee tad angry while he sings.
5. Jacob Lusk: You're All I Need
Liked that he didn't so many runs and oohs and aahs and oohs and aahs.
6. Paul McDonald: Tracks of My Tears
Loved his Cougar pin. He changed the words to the song. Did you notice ? What were those words ?
7. Stefano Lagone: Hello
Really liked the way he sang this song.
8. Scotty McCreery: For Once in My Life
Liked that he put the country spin on this song, but just wonder if he can put any other kind of spin BUT COUNTRY on a song.
9. Thia Megia: Heatwave
Liked her this week but wish Randy would just let her sing ballads.
10. Haley Reinhart: You Really Got a Hold on Me
Really ? She growled the entire song.
11. Lauren Alaina: You Keep Me Hanging On
Had the least amount of stage presence. Spent her time hanging on to the hem of her dress. Was not impressed with her singing tonight.
Even though Lauren Alaina is ranked last, my guess is that Haley will be the contestant who packs her bags.
Quotes that struck a chord with me . . . no pun intended !
"It's takes a little bit of being crazy to make a difference in this World."
"E to Z . . . Tweedle-E-Dee."
"You get me all over again."
"That was a lady killer note."
"Everyone knows you can't hit a three-pointer from under the net."
"Closest Star in this American Idol Universe."
Just my observation:
J Lo is stunningly beautiful, but when I saw her eye make-up, this quote came to mind:
"Make-up is such an interesting concept. I buy into it like most of my friends. I wake up in the morning, look into the mirror, and say . . . Maybe I'd be more attractive if my eyelids were blue."
Please scroll down, click on comments, and feel free to leave your list and comments ! At least, tell us who you think will be voted off this week . . .
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March 16 & 17
Here are my picks, in order, from Week Two.
My bottom three were the same bottom three as chosen by the fans . . .just a couple out of order: Karen and Naima !
My thought was that Naima would be voted off, but I guess theHansMan must have spent his evening casting about a thousand votes for her . . .
1. Pia Toscano
2. James Durbin
2. Stefano Langone
4. Scotty McCreery
4. Jacob Lusk
4. Lauren Alaina
7. Casey Abrams
8. Paul McDonald
8. Thia Megia
8. Haley Reinhart
8. Karen Rodriquez
12. Naima Adedapo
My first post for American Idol became a bit too long, but just for reference sake, HERE IS THE LINK that lists the final TWENTY-FOUR.
March 17, 2011 Finals Week #2 Results:
Conversation during Thursday night results between theHansMan and me:
Him: I would vote for Naima just because of her wardrobe.
Me: Speaking of warbrobes, I want Stephen's.. . and I want Randy's glasses. Who did J Lo's makeup ? Her eyelids are too white.
Him: H--m-m-m.
Me: Pia is my favorite so far.
Him: H-m-m-m.
Me: Well, I see that James had his "tail" back. I like him a lot, too.
Him: H-m-m-m.
Me: Stefano was the young man in that horrible car accident.
Him: H-m-m-m.
Me: I still think Jacob will be on Broadway some day.
Him: H-m-m-m.
Me: Is my drawl as syrupy as Lauren Alaina's ?
Him: Yes
Me: I really hope Casey is feeling better.
Him: Me, too.
Him: Give that boy (Paul) a comb.
Me: I like his hair.
Him: I Iike his smile.
Me: Me, too.
Him: Speaking of hair, what is the deal with Ryan's hair ?
Me: Huh ?
Me: I like Thia's ballads.
Him: H-m-m-m.
Me: Randy contradicts himself. He tells Thia she needs to add more variety to her selection of songs, but yet he tells Haley she needs to focus on one genre . . . that she has chosen too many genres of songs. I don't get it.
Him: H-m-m-m.
Me: I really don't want to see anyone have to go home, but I hope it's Haley.
Him: I just don't want Naima to be voted off. I like her wardrobe.
Me: I know. You've mentioned that "several" times.
Him: H-m-m-m.
Me: Karen's mom really touched my heart in last night's episode.
Him: H-m-m-m.
Him: I really like Naima's wardrobe.
Me: H-m-m-m.
Him: What is Crystal Bowersock doing these days ? If she had an album, I would buy it.
Me: I don't know.
(Crystal's new CD, "Farmer's Daughter," is waiting for him at the house when we return home.
As you can see, it was quite the intelligent conversation during last night's episode.
***Please notice the bottom three who were listed after Wednesday night's show.***
I was sad to see Karen leave, especially for her mother. Hopefully, someone will see her talent and she has the opportunity to further her singing career !
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On the road, again, so not much time to ramble on and on about favorites for this week or why. Please feel free to expound as much as you like about what you saw and heard.
Here is my list, with several ties:
1. Pia
2. James
2. Stefano
4. Scotty
4. Jacob
4. Lauren Alaina
7. Casey
8. Paul
8. Thia
8. Haley
8. Karen
12. Naima
March 10, 2011 Finals: Week #1 Results:
First of all, not sure why Casey is in the hospital, but so hope, hope, hope it's nothing serious. This is the second time in just a couple of weeks ! Amazing how bonded we become to these young people and truly worry about their well-being.
Second of all, this is the FIRST year I can say this: There was NOT ONE of the thirteen who(m) I wanted to see voted off tonight. Usually, there's at least one, but not this time. (I never know if it's who or whom !)
These young people are so talented. They all have a story. They all have a 'right' to 'make it.' Even though I may not especially care for a particular genre they choose, or a particular style, or a particular whatever . . . you won't see me on a stage anywhere. These kids have more talent in their little fingers than I have in my whole body.
For some reason, this year, I'm seeing them through a Mother's eyes. It just hurt tonight when Ashthon didn't make it. Such talent. Hopefully, she is persistent and has a support system of people who will guide her. She is a beautiful young lady and her opportunities are limitless. You go girl. Reach for the stars, Ashthon !
March 09, 2011 Finals: Week #1:
After having missed several episodes of American Idol due to riding on a choo-choo train, theHansMan and I parked ourselves in front of a hotel room TV last night to watch. But not before thinking that the hotel did not carry THE FOX CHANNEL !
He found FOX NEWS, but then announced there was NO just plain 'ole FOX, as in THE FOX NETWORK !
"What ? Call the front desk !"
I did. The young man who answered was speaking what-I-think-was-English just not in a dialect recognizable to my ears. What I think he said was, "Eef eet ees nut on zee card, eet ees not on thee TEE VEE."
"Find THEEEEEEE CARD !"
About the same time that we found 'the card' with the channel listings, there was a knock on the door. Our nephew was standing there with a hat on his head that theHansMan had left (for about the sixth time on this trip) grinning.
"Jimmy ! We don't get FOX in this room?"
"What ?!? Of course, you do. "
Because he lives in the Los Angeles area, he clicked to Channel 11 just as the show broke for the first commercial.
We said our good-byes (again) and then settled in for a relaxing evening of just doing nothing but being couch potatoes.
Here's my critique with a few personal opinions thrown in for free.
MY TOP THREE in NO PARTICULAR ORDER ARE:
James Durbin: (Paul McCartney "Maybe I'm Amazed")
Young man cleans up nicely . . . haircut and he lost that tail ! Sensitive. Soft. Smooth. Silky. Silky ? James Durbin, silky ? Who knew ? Love what the music does for him. Almost like what singing did for Mel Tillis and his stuttering. He's been a favorite of mine from the git-go.
Casey Abrams: (Joe Cocker "With A Little Help from My Friend")
Yup. He 'sweats the music.' Stephen says he's a rainbow of talent and a plethora of passion. Still here at the top for me. Can't wait until they let him sing and play that bass. Who knows . . . he may sing, play the bass, AND the melodica all at the same time !
Pia Toscano: (Celine Dion "All By Myself")
She's the real deal . . . the whole enchilada ! Talent. Looks. Personality. I like her a lot ! She is BY FAR, my favorite female this week. Funny thing is, James Durbin lost his tail. Pia Toscano found it.
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My NEXT THREE in NO PARTICULAR ORDER:
Paul McDonald: (Ryan 'with an R' Adams "Come Pick Me Up")
Gotta love that smile. He is a risk taker with his song choice. Unique. Unfamiliar. But good. Well, better than good. Hope that the voters accept his very own sense of style. Seems I tend to like the popular, more well-known songs. But, when the contestants choose those songs, and they don't sound as good as the original, then I tend not to like the song. H-m-m-m.
Jacob Lusk: (R. Kelly "I Believe I Can Fly")
As talented as Jacob is, this song just didn't seem to fit him. I would love to hear Jacob sing a medley of Gospel Greats with that choir as back-up. I would probably be standing up, shouting a few "Amen, Brother" and "Hallelujahs."
Naima Adedapo: (Rihanna "Umbrella")
Gorgeous eyes. Hynotizing. Mesmerizing. She was certainly entertaining and I like her a lot. As far as her clothes . . . looks like she was shot out of a cannon through a closet and came out with an outfit that looked like what my five-year-old granddaughter dressed herself in the other day. I am still hoping she stays in the contest.
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In the MIDDLE :
Haley Reinhart: (Lee Ann Rhimes "Blue")
Here's an example of one of those fabulous songs by an exceptional talent. Haley did just 'ok' with it. She didn't butcher it, but she didn't do it any favors, either. Was not impressed by her stage presence.
Scotty McCreery : (Garth Brooks "The River")
Still on the fence with this guy. Not sure of his sincerity about things. Seems to be following a 'script in his head' rather than a ' TRUE feeling in his heart.' Liked that he didn't change up this song, but then, how do you sing it better than Garth ? Here's an example of what I mentioned earlier. He chose one of my favorites, and sang it well, but I wouldn't put another quarter in the jukebox to hear him sing it again.
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These THREE were equally bad good (I try to be positive) :
Lauren Alaina: (Shania Twain "Any Man of Mine")
Made my ears bleed. Ouch. Made my eyes hurt. Ouch. Ouch. Not sure American Idol voters will allow another "Carrie Underwood-type" to make it this season. And while we're on the subject of clothes, or were we, reminds me of my childhood days. When I wanted to wear dresses, but it was cold outside. So, my mom would let me choose the dress, but make me wear pants under it so my legs wouldn't get cold.
Thia Megia: (Michael Jackson "Smile")
Loved the first part of the song. It was downhill from there. The transistion to another beat, another key, another 'genre,' just didn't go smoothly.
Stefano Langone: (Stevie Wonder "Lately")
I wish he had chosen "I Just Called to Say I Love You." Was not impressed just a little bit.
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Last. Last. Last Place:
Karen Rodriguez: (Selena "I Could Fall in Love")
She just needs to be herself and stop channeling artists like Selena and J Lo.
Ashthon Jones: (Diana Ross "When You Tell Me That You Love Me")
Just not sure if it was the song choice. If she was nervous because Berry Gordy was in the audience. Or What ?
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Stephen Tyler: I want your lacy shirt. Impressed that you knew it was International Woman's Day.
J Lo: Love your Firetruck Red Lipstick. Reminds me of my mom.
Randy: There should be a drinking game for every time you say: Dawg. Yo. and Dude. I love it !
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Lisa Henslee: You're the Greatest !!!!
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(Guys) 03-01-11:
OK. Here's the deal Lucille. My picks for the guys are ranked 1 - 12 12 being the best. Each week, they will be ranked the same way with the scores added together on a cumulative basis throughout the season. That's about as simple as I can make it for me. Please feel free to set up your own way of scoring and absolutely add your comments. (Thanks Lisa ! You are Johnny-on-the-Spot) I just don't have time to critique them tonight. I will be on a train when the gals sing tomorrow night, so will certainly be depending on all ya'll to comment after the show. Will not be able to watch Thursday night either to see who gets voted off. AACCHHKK ! Come to think of it, I'll have to depend on the DVR to watch next week's episodes before I can rank them because our next trip is a typical, "Planes, Trains, Automobiles . . . and a Boat."
Here goes:
Jacob Lusk 12
Casey Abrams 12
Yes, in my book, Jacob and Casey tied for first place.
Paul McDonald 10
Scotty McCreery 9
James Durbin 8
Stefano Langone 7
Brett Loewenstern 6
Clint Jun Gamboa 5
Robbie Rosen 4
Tim Halperin 3
Jovany Barreto 2
Jordan Dorsey 1
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THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL, and it's time to confess.
At this house, we are addicted to American Idol. I was the first to succumb to begin watching it religiously.
It all began in Texas when my youngest daughter was expecting their first,child, and I was there to help take care of the new baby. It is my suspicion that the doctor scheduled inducing based on when the final show of the season aired. That was Season Four in 2005 when Carrie Underwood was the winner.
From that point on, my awareness was heightened as to what the show was all about. Slowly, but surely (and don't call me Shirley), theHansMan has come on board. He was quite disappointed when Ashley Sullivan didn't make the final twenty-four. Ashley is the daughter of late WBZ radio personality Paul Sullivan. But Ashley didn't go away empty-handed. She married her boyfriend of two years, Iraq War veteran, David Suraiva, at a Las Vegas chapel. An American Idol cameraman was their witness. There's no better witness than someone armed with a camera.
We don't always watch the episodes together, but rest assured, the DVR is set to record ALL episodes. And, it goes without saying, we don't agree on who our favorites are. Honestly, it goes without saying, we don't agree on much.
Now that the TWENTY-FOUR have been chosen for SEASON TEN, it's time to get serious and become acquainted with the contestants. This is a private public, personal invitation to join us here at The Asylum to voice your opinions throughout this season of American Idol. Opinions about the contestants, the judges, Seacrest . . .whatever and whomever. No one is safe here. And what goes on here, is published for all to see.
Just be advised that I have the right to change my mind during the course of the season. (So do you.) You are welcome to add your opinions and disagree. That might be fun. I dare you to disagree with me. It just gives me the opportunity to say, "I told you so."
We are going to predict who we think will win, or maybe who we want to win, and who will get the boot.
The rules are simple: There are no rules.
For your information, in the beginning, I usually vote for American Idol contestants the way I might root for a football team . . . if I like their uniforms, if the quarterback is cute or has a cute wife . . .in other words, using very specific criteria, data, and sadistics.
Also, for your information, I am very qualified to critique the contestants. I can't carry a tune in a bucket. Once, when asked to sing back-up, they eventually asked me to back W-A-A-A-Y up. I can play chopsticks on the piano. I could never get a sound out of my daughter's clarinet, but was successful in equalizing my ears. **Update: I have just been politely reminded by my official archivist about the time Little Miss P, who was three at the time said, "Gammy, stop singing. You are scaring my ears.**
Well, here they are in alphabetical order. Yes, my OC-AR personality is in tact. I have added my own little quip that helps me remember who is who. Feel free to add your own quips and alert me to any misspellings or incorrect data.
The guys:
Abrams, Casey (19 years old - Wilmette, IL)
Plays the melodica and bass. Loved his rendition of "Georgia on My Mind." Was so relieved that the chair that went flying across the stage was an accident. (My first thought was he was not chosen and he flung the chair in anger.) That's how they edited it to appear . . . to me. At this time, Casey has been hospitalized for stomach pains and no one knows yet if he'll be released in time for a Friday taping. It is reported that if he cannot perform, he will be forced to withdraw from the competition. Keeping my fingers crossed that Casey is 'ok' because my prediction is that he will go a long way this season. **update: Casey received a transfusion and was released from the hospital in time to tape the first show **
Barreto, Jovany (23 years old -Harvey, LA)
Jovany has a rocking set of abs but maybe baring them might have been more appropriate on Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. He tried out in New Orleans and serenaded J Lo by singing in Spanish. Maybe he might just sing topless for the rest of the season because he's going to need some kind of quirk to keep him in the contest.
Dorsey, Jordan (21 years old)
Jordan has a great smile (superior smirk ? ) and is probably a very talented musician. He couldn't make up his mind during 'group night' in Hollywood as to who to 'let in' HIS group. Will be watching to see if his arrogance subsides. If he doesn't make it, would like to see him on Dancing with the Stars.
Durbin, James (22 years old - Santa Cruz, CA)
James is a father from Santa Cruz, California. His dad was a musician who died from a drug overdose. James was diagnosed with Tourette's and Asperger's Syndromesw hen he was younger. Well, right there, I'm a fan of James. Just wish he would lose the bandana that "tails him." And, maybe, not 'scream' his songs.
Gamboa, Clint Jun (26 years old - Long Beach, CA)
Clint is a Karaoke singer from Long Beach, California who auditioned in San Francisco. I really don't care how well he can sing. He will never get my vote. After dissing Jacee Badeaux and kicking him out of HIS group, the sooner he gets booted, the better. Stephen, Jennifer, and Randy are all three talented enough to watch a group performance and choose the best ones. It appeared to me that Clint might have been afraid that Jacee would be a stand out and take away from his own performance. He's a diva and needs to go back to his Karaoke Machine.
Halperin Tim (23 years old - Omaha, NE)
His Beatles performance of "Something in the Way," with Julie Zorrilla was outstanding. I love how he plays the piano. I love Julie, too. Ft. Worth may claim him because I think he graduated from TCU. Yea for the Horned Frogs. They won some kind of championship and so might Tim.
Langone, Stefano (21 years old - Kent, WA)
The first thing I think of is Stefano's scars. He survived a near fatal, horrific car accident that left scars on his arms and legs, but did not seem to scar his spirit. When you go through something like that, Langone said, “That flame in you that says, ‘I want this,’ it burns more than anything.” He wore a great t-shirt with the Space Needle on it. I love his dimples.
Loewenstern, Brett (17 years old - Boca Raton, FL)
Brett has lovely red curly locks. When the last three contestants, Jaycee, Colton, and Brett, were all brought on stage to find out which one would take the FINAL spot, I was surprised that Colton wasn't chosen, even though Jacee had the 'prettiest' voice. I think that Brett will be one of the first guys to go.
Lusk, Jacob (23 years old - Compton, CA)
"God Bless the Child." Wow ! What an emotional performance. I just keep waiting for Jacob to disintegrate before our very eyes. I love his spirit and don't think he'll be our next American Idol but think that he might very well end up on Broadway. If I had to sum up a description for Jacob in one word, it would be unorthodox. He may need to find ONE of his unorthodox styles and stick to it or he'll not last very long in the competition. I do think he'll go far into the competition.
McCreery, Scotty (17 years old - Garner, NC)
OK. Scotty. Stop with two things: 1) Locking the doors and turning the lights down low 2) Apologizing for not standing up for Jacee ! It will be interesting to see if Scotty's very recognizable country voice can transcend through other genres of music. He is a junior pitcher for Garner High School in Raleigh, North Carolina. Oh, and Scotty, please learn the words to Lee Ann Womack's "I Hope You Dance" whether you ever sing it again or not. And, whether Scotty wins American Idol or not (probably not) he will no doubt end up in Nashville with some great songs.
McDonald, Paul (26 years old - Huntsville, AL)
Well, he gets my vote for the Marty Robbins white knit sequined suit ! He sang "Maggie May" but it would have been fine with me if he had crooned some gunfighter ballads or at least "Devil Woman." He's smooth as silk. And scruffy. And sultry. And sexy. I hope to see him go far in the competition. I think he will.
Rosen, Robbie (17 years old - Merrick, NY)
A rare disease kept Robbie in a wheelchair in his younger days. I think Robbie will be one of the first to be voted off.
The Gals:
Adedapo, Naima (26 years old-Milwaukee, WI)
She is a mother who works as an arena janitor scrubbing toilets. Even though I don't think she'll make it too far into the contest, my hope is that she will be able to cut a deal with a recording studio and trade that scrub brush for a microphone.
Chantelle, Kendra (22 years old - Loudon, TN)
Me thinks it was because she performed with Paul McDonald and it was HIS performance that Kendra made the cut. Just sayin'. She will be one of the first to go.
Jones, Ashton (24 years old - Valdosta, GA)
Ashton sang "Hit Em Up Style" in Round Two and was paired with Ashley Sullivan in the group performance. And speaking of Ashley. The judges should have let her go on through just for the entertainment. I love Ashton's "Diana Ross Hair" and that she is from Valdosta. We have three grandchildren who live there. My prediction is that Ashton will go far in the competition . . . maybe to the finale.
Megia, Thia (16 years old - Hayward, CA)
Thia took the last spot as she and Jessica Cunningham sat together to hear the verdict from the judges. Personally, I was rooting for Jessica, a twenty-five year old who had tried SIX other times to go on and be given a chance with the other twenty three contestants. There couldn't have been two more different gals sitting there. Thia in her youthful innocence and Jessica in her short, very short, did I mention her very short leather skirt ? After the announcement that Thia would move on and Jessica flipped off all of us, I quickly changed my mind and was happy that Jessica wasn't chosen.
Reinhart, Haley (20 years old - Wheeling, IL)
Haley also auditioned in Season Nine. Her rendition of "Georgia on My Mind" was not recognizable to me. I think she will be one of the first females to go.
Rodriguez, Karen (21 years old New York, NY)
Karen is a jazzy Latin singer with a lot of energy. She was first shown on her webcam singing Whitney Houston's 1985 hit "You Give Good Love." She then sang that same song in Los Angeles in front of Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson. It wasn't her first time singing in front of J Lo. Karen reminded J Lo she sang to her on an episode of "TRL" and that Lopez had praised her "beautiful" voice. She may surprise me, but unless J Lo can be very convincing, Karen may go before many of the others.
Suddeth, Lauren Alaina (16 years old - Rossville, GA)
She has benefit concerts for her cousin, Holly, who has had chemotherapy for a brain tumor. Advice to Lauren Alaina: STOP acting like a sixteen year-old. Oh, wait ! You ARE sixteen ! And, she just turned sixteen. It will be interesting to see how she holds up under the pressure and take the criticism. In her case, this will be a popularity contest. In the past, it seems those from the smaller towns seem to rake in the most votes because those small towns rally around their heroes.
Toscano, Pia (22 years old - Howard Beach, NY)
Pia tried during Season Six and made it to the Top 40. Hopefully, the fact that she's gorgeous won't get her voted off early in the competition. She sang "Doesn't Mean Anything." I love her clothes. There are times, she reminds me of Lea Michele (Rachel Berry's Glee.) I hope this beauty goes a long way this season and maybe end up on the stage with either Ashton or Julie and Tim or Paul.
Turner, Lauren (24 years old - Covington, LA)
Lauren auditioned in Season Four but did not make it to the semi-finals. She is a house keeper and tried for the show this year in New Orleans. A place known for Blues which Lauren sings well. She may go far in the competition but probably won't be a contender in the finale.
Wilson, Ta-Tynisa Tatynisa? ( 20 years old - Shreveport, LA)
First of all, I love her name. But didn't she forget the words to "I Hope You Dance" along with Scotty ? She has some powerful pipes but not sure she will make it very far.
Zevita, Rachel (23 years old - New York, NY)
In Season Six, she made it to Hollywood, so now, she's one step further. She has some fairly odd bedazzle bling bling about her. I loved her feathery shoes. I also loved it that her mother and her eighty three year-old grandmother flew all the way from New York to be with her.
Zorrilla, Julie
Ha ! Just kidding and to see if you are paying attention.
Here is Julie Zorrilla . . .
Julie Zorrilla (20 years old - Denver, CO)
Julie is originally from Columbia and that is a story in itself. She went to her high school prom with the first person shown on this post. She has great shoes and awesome dresses. She even plays the piano. She even picks up Ryan and then falls down. Oh well. When you're that beautiful, it just doesn't matter. She might even pick him up again if she makes it as far as I predict.
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Here's the plan:
On the comment page:
1) vote for three gals and three guys who you THINK might win/WANT to win and why
2) vote for which guy and which gal will be voted off first and why (or who you hope will be voted off)
3) be creative with whatever ELSE you want to post
Be sure to watch:
March 1: guy semi-finalists perform
March 2: gal semi-finalists perform
March 3: first results and finalists are announced
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Prediction #1: (based on auditions, clothes, attitude . . . )
Three top guys:
Casey Abrams
Tim Halperin
Paul McDonald
Three top gals:
Pia Toscano
Julie Zorrilla
Ashton Jones
First guy to go: (I hope) Clint Jun Gamboa
First gal to go: Haley Reinhart
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My top 3 for week 3 were (1) James - I thought he knocked it outta the park and I agree with Steven..I love his little wild & crazy side, (2)Jacob - he did an awesome job and really pulled back, which I loved and think suited him much better than in previous appearances, and (3) Pia - even though I'm really tired of all the ballads, she has a beautiful voice and she is absolutely gorgeous.
Except for Stephano, all the guys are ready to hit the road on their solo tours tomorrow. The only female that has that is Naima. She certainly has that stage presence and seems to have all the confidence in the world. Not the best female singer and certainly not the prettiest, but she did a terrific job Tuesday night. She wants it bad and she may be a force to be rekoned with.
As for the results show. OMG! I loved, loved, loved the judges decision to use the save. No way Casey should have gone home...and he should most definitely be on tour with the rest. Awesome new rule to include the save with the tour group!!!! I also couldn't believe how humbled he was...I thought he was going to pass out, or have a stroke one. I just love his personality!
I loved, loved, loved it!!! Loved Hulk Hogan being there for James & the gang...cracked me up. Loved Stevie Wonder being there to sing his "happy birthday" song to Steven Tyler. Loved Jennifer Hudson's performance and Sugarland's performance. It was a wonderful show.