AI Season 8 Final 3: Adam Lambert Couldn't Save Allison Iraheta

Not even a killer closing duet with Adam Lambert last night could save Allison Iraheta on American Idol. Though both of Allison's performances were better than Kris Allen and Danny Gokey, AI is a popularity contest. At least Allison Iraheta can consider herself in good company finishing in fourth. Joined there by the likes of Tamyra Gray and Chris Daughtry.

Speaking of Chris Daughtry, he and band took home an award tonight on the Idol stage for selling over 5 million copies of their debut album. Daughtry also debuted his single from his next effort, "No Surprise". The band and Chris sounded great.

Paula Abdul is making a musical comeback. Apparently Paula missed the limelight so much, she is headed back to the stage. There is no reason for this other than the obvious... Paula Abdul is crazy. Her performance on the Idol stage tonight was not good (to put it nicely). Thankfully the vocals were recorded so we were saved from hearing Paula Abdul actually sing.

After an appropriate amount of drama and buildup, Kris Allen was the first Season 8 contestant to be confirmed safely into the top three. The minute Ryan Seacrest read his name, the shock set in on Allen's face. It was obvious he thought he was going home tonight. With Kris Allen in the top three, Allison Iraheta's fate was all but sealed.

Adam Lambert was the next to be pronounced safe and in the top three. Adam told Ryan Seacrest how happy he had been when the approval came through for him to perform Led Zeppelin for the first time on the Idol stage. I'm sure his past performances and talent were taken into consideration before the coveted song was bestowed upon him.

Ryan Seacrest asked Danny Gokey what he thought of his performance last night. Danny fessed up that it was awful. He still gave excuses of it being "really loud on stage", but it's the same stage and band for all the contestants. Danny Gokey said that after listening to the playback from last night, "I just laughed... it was bad". He said he'd heard people were downloading the end note (if that's what you call it) as the 'scary scream' ringtone today.

No Doubt also made an appearance on the Idol stage tonight. Singing their hit "I'm Just a Girl" and announcing a tour for this summer. They seemed a bit out of shape, but it was an energetic performance.

After all the hoopla, we are left with the American Idol Season 8 top three: Adam Lambert, Kris Allen and Danny Gokey. That is the order I hope they finish.

For all the judges comments and videos of the Rock night performances, check out TV Review.