American Idols Reach New Heights with Shania Twain as Mentor

The 2010 season of American Idol has been rather predictable the past few weeks. That could change now that the contestant count is down to six. With just about a month remaining until the finale, these vocalists are pulling out all the stops.

Shania Twain participated in American Idol auditions early on, and she returned tonight as the Idols' mentor. Shania looked like the proud and nervous mother in the audience. I think that her guidance was a genuine asset at this point in the competition. Shania's earnest lyrics combined with her advice to the contestants to sincerely relate to the songs came through in their performances.

Kicking It up a Notch

Performing "Don't", Casey James was very impressive. Shania told him to sing the song like he was telling a story and he did just that. He executed this tune with more conviction and emotion that I've seen to date. I believe it was his best performance. Casey has a distinct, raw quality to his voice and a vulnerable style, making him very appealing. He is popular with fans and could emerge as a dark horse in this American Idol competition.

I was prepared to write Aaron Kelly off this week. He has a good, powerful voice, but it seems to me that his immaturity has been a stumbling block on American Idol. He took me back tonight singing "You've Got a Way". It was a stirring performance. Aaron sat on a stool, thus eliminating the awkwardness he often emits. He belted the song out with confidence and emotion that have been lacking in other performances. Aaron has a devotion to his mom, the aunt who raised him. The fact that he sang the song to her made it all the more endearing.

Siobhan Magnus proved tonight that she's a force to contend with on American idol. Her previous few performances were not stellar, but she changed that tonight. Performing Twain's first #1 country hit "Any Man of Mine", Siobhan's confidence and attitude were infectious. She worked the American Idol crowd well also, and they loved it.

Nothing Left to Prove

Lee DeWyze truly makes every song on American Idol his own. He is already a star in my book. 'When can I buy his album?' is the only thing left to say. Lee brought it once again tonight singing "You're Still the One". Lee's husky, natural tone is a pleasure to the ears.

Crystal Bowersox had her first real criticism from the American Idol judges. Then again, they backed it up by telling her how great she is. Crystal is not afraid to take a chance. Each week brings a pleasant surprise. Crystal looked happy and comfortable singing "No One Needs to Know Right Now". It didn't rock the theater, but I liked it. Her falsetto brought a new dimension to the song. I enjoy the way Crystal brings musicians right into the act with her. Too bad Shania didn't write the lyrics, "Man! I Feel Like a Winner"...they would've been perfect for Crystal.

A Ticket to Ride?

Mike Lynche brought Shania Twain to tears on American Idol tonight singing "It Only Hurts When You're Breathing". Mike did show emotion as he sat on the staircase and sang from the heart. However, I was not as impressed as was Shania. Mike hit blatant off-notes and that could be his ticket home. The competition has heated up and it's just too late in the game for that. I'm glad he got a second chance, but it may run out soon.

Anything could happen on Wednesday, April 28^th's American Idol results' show.

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