American Idol: Ramiele Malubay Lacked the Killer Instinct

As I wait for this evening's installment of American Idol, I reflect back on Ramiele Malubay's ouster. I'd like say that I was shocked that she was sent home but I wasn't. Ramiele wasn't ever able to go for the jugular. By that I mean she wasn't able to pull out all the stops and sing as if her life depended on it, thereby taking advantage of weaker performances. This, in and of itself, is not a bad thing, but in the game of life "playing small" does not serve anyone. I always felt like she was holding back. Sort of like that kid who is really smart but doesn't want to let the other kids to see how really smart they are.

It sometimes, felt like she was walking this fine line between who she thought she was and who the judges knew she could be. Week after week she was admonished to let us hear that big voice. Yet, she returned, week after week, with pretty, well crafted, but not awe-inspiring performances. There's nothing wrong with pretty or well-crafted if that's all you have to give. Today's musical landscape is littered with those whose promotional capabilities far outpace their actual talent. However, one senses that within Ramiele Malubay, there are awe-inspiring, rafter lifting performances.

I could wax metaphysical about feelings of deservingness and overcoming limiting beliefs. Suffice it to say, she must believe that she deserves to be on that stage in that moment, living that particular existence. Otherwise she'll always sell herself short. As I said, I believe that Ramiele possesses real talent and I hope that she can achieve a level of self-possession that allows her to fully embrace the extent of that talent.