American Idol 2010 Sends Two Home on Double Elimination Night

American Idol hasn't had a night like this in a long time. A double elimination. The dismissal of not one, but two finalists. Two for the road. And, try as they may, the nine Idols put on their happy faces and performed for the audience a wonderful medley of Elvis classics. Sweet harmony filled the stage, elimination was on their minds as they wondered, 'will it be me?'

"If you wanna win this competition, you have to wake up!" exclaimed Adam Lambert. For a couple of Idols it may be too late. With over 34 million votes cast, the highest number so far this season, the American Idol fans have spoken and the verdict is in.

The First Elimination

Ryan Seacrest got right down to business. He asked Casey, Aaron and Andrew to join him center stage and form a line. After a review of Casey's, Aaron's, and Andrew's performance, Ryan announced it was the end of the road for Andrew. Aaron and Casey returned to the couches, safe. Andrews swan song: "You Give Me Something." We're gonna miss you, Andy. Keep rocking!

For Your Entertainment

Surrounded by swirling smoke, Adam Lambert heated up the stage in a green light show singing "Whataya Want From Me." Adam was decked out in a shiny silver jacket and black tie, sporting his trademark hair and looking very much in control. He laid it all out with his strong vocals and crafty showmanship, a performance I hope the Idols were recording in their minds for future reference when their mentor leaves and they have to pull a few tricks from their sleeves.

Season 7's Brooke White teamed up with web series star Justin Gaston, ("If I Could Dream"), to sing "If I Can Dream." Sweet number, and Brooke never looked better.

Idols Give Back

American Idol took us to Angola, as we watched footage of Elliott Yamin and judge Kara DioGuardi at an orphanage run by a single woman, Sister Dominguez. Through Idol Gives Back, Elliott and Kara were able to assist in distributing 300,000 mosquito nets to protect over one million people from contracting malaria from mosquitoes.

One More Good-by

As the last of the finalists walked over to stand center stage, Ryan spoke to each one, going over their performances on Tuesday night. Reading the judges feedback, the air got tense and I imagine, our Idol's hearts were beating fast in anticipation of the one name they would have to call. Two times the stress for this night, which no one will forget. Well, we won't go through this again. Remember, no more saves.

All of the finalists are sent to safety except Mike and Katie. I saw Tim's reaction when he was sent back to the couches and there was a sigh of relief. Nine lives of a cat. Tim used up one more. How many are left?

It's down to Big Mike and Katie. Mike is safe. Katie must bid the finalists farewell. Katie says she will take with her the amazing experience and remember all the amazing people she met while on the show. Katie's last song: "Let It Be." Katie, you're a class act!

Although we said good-by to two of our finalists, you can still catch them this summer when they perform with the American Idols on Tour. Next week the seven, yes, seven finalists will keep on keeping on. And, hey, guess what? I heard Alicia Keys is going to be the next Idol mentor. Oh, yeah! Get ready for some great songs from a multi-talented singer, songwriter, pianists, composer, and arranger. Alicia does it all! It's getting down to the wire and you don't want to miss a thing as we get closer to selecting the next American Idol.

Play List

"Paper Hearts" Justin Gaston

"Hold Up My Heart" Brooke White

"Whataya Want From Me" Adam Lambert

"Return To Sender" Elvis Presley

"Teddy Bear" Elvis Presley

Rhonda Manning, www.youtube.com, Associated Content.