'American Idol' 2011 Top 12: Another One Bites the Dust

"American Idol" contestants performed songs from their birth years last night. It seemed obvious that Karen Rodriguez and Naima Adedapo would end up in the bottom three. Naima was, as the judges love to say, pitchy--Karen was boring. The third person was up for grabs, in my opinion.

Here's how the night went down.

First Group

Jacob Lusk, Casey Abrams and Lauren Alaina were called front and center. Jacob was the first one to be "sent back to the couch," which meant he was safe. Even though I don't see Jacob making it to the finale, it was apparent he'd go through tonight. Lauren received the good news next. Casey was the last hold-out, but-big surprise-he was safe too.

Second Group

Haley Reinhart and Paul McDonald were on the chopping block next. Even though I personally like both of them, they were prime candidates for the bottom three. Paul breezed on through, but Haley was the first one to hit the "bottom three stools." America doesn't seem to be getting her style-maybe she better find a style---soon.

Third Group

Scotty McCreery, Pia Toscano and James Durbin were next to face their fate. Ryan Seacrest quipped that Scotty sang his first love song last night. Seriously, would any of the three of these contestants be leaving at this point in time? Hardly. James announced on Wednesday that he's going to sing an Aerosmith song at the finale. The guy is confident. Steven Tyler promised to sing with him. That alone may be enough to keep fans interested in James. Then again, they already are interested.

Fourth Group

The two wildcards, Naima Adedapo and Stefano Langone were next. Stefano promised to make more eye contact next time. I think he took fans by storm with that big voice. No surpise that he was safe. Naima, on the other hand, was the second singer to hit the dreaded stools. I hope she stays on key next week; I'd like to see her stick around.

Fifth Group

The last pair up consisted of Karen Rodriguez and Thia Megia. One was staying and one was leaving. Thia has a crystal clear voice-sure, she is overdoing the ballads-but it would've been very surprising to see her go at this point. Karen might have been trying too hard to be the "first Latino Idol." That's not to be. Not only did she land in the bottom three-she ultimately got the boot. The judges have one "save" for the season and they didn't use it to save Karen. Randy Jackson emphasized that the decision not to save Karen wasn't unanimous. I'm guessing Jennifer was the dissenting vote.

Lee DeWyze and The Black Eyed Peas Perform

There was a little break from the drama when current "American Idol," Lee DeWyze, was brought back to perform his single, "Beautiful Like You." He advised the top 12 not to worry, just to keep doing what they love to do. That might be a bit easier if they make the top 10. Lee played guitar as he sang, and it was nice to hear his distinctive voice on stage again.

The Black Eyed Peas presented their world premiere of "Just Can't Get Enough." They dedicated the song to their "friends in Japan."

Source: "American Idol," March 17, 2011; FOX Channel

Read about the Top 12's March 16th performances.