American Idol: The Stars of Season 8

The theme of last night's American Idol was songs from the year each contestant was born. For five of the remaining eight contestants, it became another opportunity for them to shine. It also was the chance for them to show exactly why they have made it this far and why they deserve to go even further than AI.

The star, Adam Lambert, is amazing. With each performance, he owns the stage and is in complete control over the song he sings. Last night's performance to 1982's "Mad World" by Tears for Fears was no exception. He gave us another flawless and beautiful show. Some bloggers says that Adam's completely overrated and overexposed. Maybe so. But he truly is a talented artist, one that can not only steal a show, but sounds good while doing so. Even the hard-nosed, Simon Cowell gave him a standing ovation.

Allison Iraheta also deserved a standing "o" with her riveting performance of Bonnie Raitt's 1992 hit, " I Can't Make You Love Me". This is one of my favorite songs and this young girl definitely gave it her all. Unfortunately, her popularity with the Idol fans isn't so great. She has been in the bottom three several times, slimming her chance for a win this season. But something tells me it won't be much longer before Allison is in the studio and making her first record.

Another studio ready performer is Matt Giraud. I'm so happy that her took the judge's advice from last week and returned to his R & B roots. Soul fits his voice much better than the alternative rock genre. Matt took Stevie Wonder's 1985 song, "Part-Time Lover" and killed it. He's an awesome vocalist and should embrace his smooth, soulful voice. It's a beautiful thing.

After last night, Anoop Desai is still going strong as well. If you've watched the The UNC Clef Hangers' videos, then you know that homeboy can really sing. Perhaps many of the Idol watchers are turned off by his cocky attitude? But aren't stars suppose to be confident? Cocky attitude aside, we can't dismiss the fact that his rendition of Cyndi Lauper's 1986 hit, "True Colors" was on point. Anoop Dog is a talented vocalist and deserves to be in this competition.

And, finally, is Danny Gokey, who reminds me so much of last season's AI winner, David Cook. Although, I'm not certain that he has it all to win this years' title, he is definitely still a forerunner. Mickey Gilley's 1980 version of "Stand by Me" was a great song choice for Danny. The fans have loved him since his audition and he is only getting better. There is no doubt that there will be an album in his future.

Thus far, these are the top competitors in the Season 8 competition of AI. Each one has great vocal skills, a confident stage presence, and undeniable talent. They already possess a star quality and are ready to be recording artists today. Win or lose, AI is just the beginning. Adam, Allison, Matt, Anoop, and Danny are well on their way to become stars.

Until next time.

Happy Idol Watching!