Alexis Grace, Goodbye

American Idol voters made millions of calls in support for all the contestants. The bottom 3 was not surprising to me. Michael Sarver, Allison Iraheta and Alexis Grace received the fewest amount of votes. Michael Sarver and Allison Iraheta were both safe, leaving Alexis Grace in line for elimination.

One last chance to be saved by the judge, Alexis belted out "Jolene" one more time. She sounded pretty good on Tuesday night, but by Wednesday in her last performance, she fell apart. Her vocals were forced as she cracked out the lyrics to the famous Dolly Parton tune. Perhaps she could have sung it better? I think if she'd stuck with the original melody and added her own flavor she might have done better. Jolene is a classic, but as it turns out was just too big for our tiny contestant.

All three judges agreed that a save was not in order. Simon said; "It was good, but not good enough." Alexis didn't appear surprised by the elimination and held herself up like a true champion. Paula told her to keep her chin up. "You've got a long career ahead of you" she said. Michael Sarver hugs her good bye as the audience cooed. What a ride she's had. From Memphis to Hollywood, Alexis lived the dream, if only for a few weeks.

I don't think this is the last we'll see from Alexis. She does have a powerful voice and a unique presence on stage. She's beautiful and unique in a quirky kind of way. This makes for a talented combination and I hope she does well. Allison and Michael are breathing a sigh of relief today, but had better "bring it" next week or they will find their spots in jeopardy once again...

As Alexis heads back to Memphis to her family and friends, the remaining ten contestants will gear up for next week's show. I wonder who the guest will be. Randy Travis week was awesome, but I think it's time to move away from country and into something more contemporary.

We're getting closer and closer to the 2009 Idol winner. I've got my favorites, but this year anything can happen. Look for my "American Idol Top 10 Review Tuesday night and remember VOTE! Every vote counts and if you want your favorite to stay, vote, vote, vote. Congratulations to this week's winners, see you next week!