American Idol 2010 Contestants Compete for Top Six Spots

The theme for Tuesday April 20^th's American Idol program was inspiration. The Idols' mentor, Alicia Keys, complemented the theme. Of course Alicia is a standout R & B artist, but she also gives back to humanity, particularly through her work with AIDS-stricken families in Africa. Alicia advised the contestants that they would need to sing with conviction if they intended to inspire an audience. Crystal and Lee certainly took her advice. It's getting down to the wire now and three of the vocalists have emerged as clear-cut choices to make it to the end. Then again, nothing is ever clear-cut on American Idol, is it?

The Top Three

Crystal Bowersox was once again in a league of her own singing "People Get Ready". She left her instruments behind, showing yet another side of her diverse talent. The introduction-a capela- was an indication of what was to come. Crystal poured more emotion into this number than she has to date...so much so that she ended the song moved to tears. Whether or not she's chosen as the American Idol this season remains to be seen...but she should be.

Lee DeWyze ranks right behind Crystal. His heartfelt connection to Simon and Garfunkel's "The Boxer" came through loud and clear in his performance this week on American Idol. He changed it up just enough that it could be a hit on the radio today. I can't get enough of Lee's vocal styling. He should be the runner-up this season. Regardless, his career will reach great heights.

Siobhan Magnus rounds out the top three American Idols for me. Other than Ellen, the judges harshly criticized her performance of "When You Believe". I liked it. She reached some beautiful high notes ...much better than screams of past weeks. Siobhan truly has a sound of her own. The word 'unique' is overused, yet it fits Siobhan perfectly.

Out of the Running

Casey James has a smile that draws a person in right away. Combine that with his raspy vocals and skill on the guitar and he's the total package. The American Idol judges weren't impressed with his rendition of Fleetwood Mac's "Don't Stop". In my opinion, it was solid. Seems to me it's just the type of song he'll be performing in his career. I don't think Casey will make it to the top three, but he's already cemented a career in music.

Mike Lynche delivered a decent performance of "Hero". Mike's personality always shines through on American Idol. He's pleasant to listen to, but nothing special. I think the top five is as far as he'll go.

Aaron Kelly is a guy you really want to root for...he's likable. However, he still looks very uncomfortable on stage, rocking back and forth. His performance on American Idol this week of "I Believe I Can Fly" was good, but not great. He had a rocky start, but hit some strong notes. I'd say next week will be Aaron's last. At only sixteen, he'll do nothing but improve.

Tim Urban may not slide by any more on American Idol. I think he's reached his peak. His rendition of The Goo Goo Dolls' "Better Days" was forgettable. He seemed to be struggling in his lower register. Tim has obviously built a large fan base, so he has no worries for a career; however, I doubt it's enough to pull him through this week.

We'll find out on Wednesday's "Idol Gives Back" show whether or not Tim really did lose his Teflon.

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Source: Fox Channel's American Idol TV Show