American Idol Season 9's Eight Remaining Girls Take the Stage

Eight girls have endured thus far on American Idol's Season 9. The television program showcasing the eight females who are vying for spots on American Idol's coveted top 12 lasted for an hour on Tuesday, March 9^th. As always, there were distinctive performances along with a few surprises. One girl, Crystal Bowersox, is in a league of her own.

Crystal Bowersox will no doubt end up with a recording contract before American Idol's Season 9 even comes to a close. I would buy her music tomorrow and would not grow tired listening to her sing. Playing electric guitar and belting out Tracy Chapman's "Give Me One Reason," Crystal solidified her talent. When she sings, I hate to see the song end. Crystal's that good.

Siobhan Magnus did an excellent job on American Idol singing the Animals' "House of the Rising Sun." She grew up listening to her dad playing piano and singing this tune. Her connection to it was obvious. The a cappella beginning was gutsy and added a nice dimension.

DiDi Benami impressed me with a Fleetwood Mac performance on American Idol. I've loved her distinctive sound from the start. Playing guitar, DiDi appeared confident and relaxed. She shed some tears again this week, but they were tears of joy over the judges' comments.

Lilly Scott is another American Idol competitor who possesses a distinguishing sound. Playing mandolin, she handled Patsy Kline's "I Fall to Pieces" with her own flair. There were a couple weak high notes, but I liked Lilly's performance.

Lacey Brown should win an award for the most improved female singer on American Idol. I think she's just beginning to come into her own. Brandi Carlisle's "The Story" was a good fit for her unique vocal style.

Katie Stevens has a solid voice, but at only 17, she's having trouble figuring out her fit on American Idol. She had some good and bad moments singing Kelly Clarkson's "Break Away." I think she's trying to please everyone except herself, and it's not working very well.

Katelyn Epperly seemed far more comfortable this week on American Idol than last week. However, she wasn't connecting well with Carole King's "I Feel the Earth Move." It was enjoyable, but didn't move me.

Paige Miles was the biggest disappointment of the top eight girls on American Idol. She took on the song "Smile" but looked like she was far from happy. Paige's vocals came across as shaky and off-key right from the start. I didn't find this to be characteristic of her other performances. I think she may be homeward bound.

American Idol's eight guys perform on Wednesday, March 10^th. The top 12 competitors will be announced on the Thursday evening American Idol program.

For voting procedures and further information, visit American Idol's official Web site.