American Idol Season 9 Performers Sing for a Spot in the Top Ten

They did search America in order to showcase the crème de la crème of vocal talent on American Idol, didn't they? There were a few times when it wasn't all that apparent as the Idols sang number one hits from the Billboard charts. Talents like Crystal Bowersox and Siobhan Magnus, however, will keep the viewers coming back for more.

Let's get the bad news out of the way...

Paige Miles had a terrible night. She looked beautiful and seems like a warm person, but her performance of "Against All Odds" truly was tough to witness. She gave new meaning to 'pitchy'. I can't imagine Paige surviving another week on American Idol.

Andrew Garcia impresses me less each week. Along with his mediocre vocal performances on American Idol, he almost seems to be developing a sense of arrogance. Maybe it's due to insecurity, but it's not attractive. If he doesn't step up the game, he won't be around for long.

Tim Urban seemed to be trying too hard to please the American Idol audience. He certainly looked comfortable on stage singing "Crazy Little Thing Called Love"...perhaps too comfortable? His vocals were on key, but the performance was lackluster.

Katie Stevens seemed to come into her own more on American Idol this time than she has previously. Although she has a strong voice, there's still something about her performances that just hasn't moved me yet.

The highlights of the program...

Crystal Bowersox still ranks as my favorite American Idol. I've been waiting for her to break into a Janis Joplin song, so I was more than pleased with her rendition of "Me and Bobby McGee". I think even Janis would've been pleased. She was crystal clear (no pun intended) from the first note that came out of her mouth. Crystal will be a star soon, and I'm looking forward to her recordings already.

Siobhan Magnus runs a very close second to Crystal in my book. She blasted a couple of those signature high notes that would get anyone's attention. Her individuality is appealing. Her version of Stevie Wonder's "Superstition" was great. Siobhan possesses the caliber of vocals that a person expects to hear on American Idol.

Good performances...

Lee Dewyze is always a high point on American Idol. It's a safe bet that he'll stay on key. He simply has a good voice and it fit his song choice, "The Letter". His husky, raw quality is alluring. Lee could surprise the audience as he gets looser each week.

Casey James pulled out his electric guitar again on American Idol for "The Power of Love". He did a nice job. Casey has a big fan base already. I can easily see him having a career as the lead singer and guitarist in a top-notch band.

Aaron Kelly was dealing with laryngitis and tonsillitis on American Idol. He managed to pull off Aerosmith's "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" with ease. Aaron has a strong voice. His stage presence is still lacking. Once he polishes that part of his performance, he'll do even better.

Mike Lynche was in his element singing "When a Man Loves a Woman". American Idol judge, Randy, didn't like his song choice, but I thought it suited him well. I agreed with Simon, however, that simple piano accompaniment would have been more effective.

Didi Benami was raked over the coals by the American Idol judges. I didn't agree with them. I thought her voice was suited to Linda Ronstadt's "You're No Good". I liked the way Didi worked the stage. She has a quality to her voice that can't be practiced...it's just there.

On Wednesday, March 24^th, the top ten American Idol contestants for Season 9 will be announced. One of these eleven will not be joining the others on tour. I hope Paige can stay on key for her swan song.

American Idol Season 9 Top Twelve Take on the Stones
For more information, go to American Idol's website.