American Idol: Kristy Lee Cook Shines with Do It Anyway

As I've been one of Kristy's biggest detractors, it gives me great pleasure to say that she rocked it last night. Looking like a star and sounding like an angel, Kristy Lee Cook came into her own. Singing Martina McBride's "Do It Anyway", the night was hers. Even though Randy offered up his standard "pitchy" pronouncement, I heard nothing of the sort. She was spot on. Paula disagreed with Randy and declared Kristy wonderful. Even Simon, who has been consistently snarky with regard to Kristy Lee's performances, offered kind words. "Tonight, you look like a star." He said during the judging session.

I've been critical of the stylists this season but with some simple modifications, they took Kristy from country girl to contender. Not only did she look fabulous but she was in great voice. In an absolute coup, she chose a song that could have been tailor made for her. She connected on an emotional level with the lyrics and you believed that she believed. The Top 8 were tasked with choosing inspirational songs. As a whole the night was far from inspiring.

Aside from standout performances from Kristy Lee and David Archuleta, the rest of the lot were just passable. Many seemed to have no connection with their material. However, Kristy Lee was in complete possession of her space and she absolutely owned her performance from start to finish. Though still safely ensconced in the country genre, she showed signs of the "wow" factor; which is something that has been missing in her past performances. Early on Simon said of Kristy. "You're forgettable." With this performance she's proven that practice makes perfect. As with anything, consistency is the key. If Kristy can catch this wave and stay on her feet, she may find herself back in the game.