American Idol Top 9: Matt Giraud Frayed Around the Edges

In an effort to show that he's more than just an R&B singer, Matt Giraud chose The Fray's "You Found Me" to make his stand. The Fray is a great group and I applaud Matt for enjoying them but aside from singing quite a nice cover of "You Found Me," he didn't bring anything new to the song. What I learned, from this little exercise, is that I like my Matt with a side of soul.

When chastened by the judges for his song choice, Matt said "I love this song." So Matt if you love The Fray, sing The Fray, but try very hard to put your mark on it. Your soulful voice is your style. Don't fight it, embrace it and let it guide you. When you have an opportunity like this, download week, where everything is at your disposal, choose what's going to show you to your best advantage. No one's confused. We know you can sing and no one's discounting your musical choices, but if we wanted to hear a song by The Fray we would download a song by The Fray. The fact that we've tuned in and are watching in droves means that you've got something or you're doing something we like.

Matt has been near perfect since the "Viva La Vida" debacle. This turn of events is disheartening. However, it only represents a small step back for Matt. It shouldn't be enough to get him ousted this week. Hopefully he has the good will of the voters to keep him in the competition.

The need to guard against being pigeon holed is understandable but in fighting so hard against it he stripped the music of the intrinsic value he brings to it. For future reference, if you get a chance to choose from thousands of songs , choose the one's that show your voice and musical proficiency off to advantage. Once you're famous you'll have plenty of time to sing whatever you like.