Crystal Bowersox Sings "Summer Wind" on American Idol

Crystal Bowersox is the last girl standing on American Idol as she sang "Summer Wind." This week's theme is the music of Frank Sinatra. Simon Cowell said at the beginning of the season that this was the season for the girls. Now, with only five contestants left there is only one chance for a female American Idol and that responsibility lies with Crystal Bowersox.

Harry Connick, Jr.'s Advice to Crystal Bowersox

Harry Connick, Jr. is this week's American Idol mentor. With Harry Connick, Jr.'s list of accomplishments it is no wonder he was chosen to mentor the music from Frank Sinatra night. He has won three Grammy awards and is a multi-talented singer, composer, pianist and actor. He recorded his first song at age 10.

Connick said that he knew that Crystal was singing about something, but he didn't know what and that's what makes her song memorable. He added that there was nothing he needed to tell Crystal.

Harry Connick, Jr. was more than a mentor to Crystal Bowersox and all the American Idol contestants. He not only mentored them and gave them advice, but he also wrote the arrangements for each of their songs and played the piano for their performances.

About Frank Sinatra, Connick said, "Frank Sinatra was the pinnacle of interpreting songs. It's about singing great songs that Frank Sinatra interpreted one way and these kids can interpret them another way."

Crystal Bowersox Performs "Summer Wind"

Crystal Bowersox sang "Summer Wind" with Harry Connick, Jr. at the piano and a full orchestra at her back. She walked out in a black lace evening gown with her hair in an upsweep. She managed to look the Sinatra part and become part of his era.

Crystal started out sitting on the piano bench with Harry Connick, Jr. She walked over the microphone stand and sang without her guitar. It was obvious that the lyrics meant something to her.

The music from Frank Sinatra is out of Crystal's normal genre of music. She showed her sexy side with her forceful voice. Her style was a soft, romantic singer who was singing a sweet love song that got bigger as it went on.

What the Judges said about Crystal Bowersox's "Summer Wind" Performance

Randy Jackson: He thought Crystal's performance was subdued and a bit sleepy, but it was a great arrangement.

Ellen DeGeneres: Wanted Crystal to loosen up more. She said that she's seen so many different sides to Crystal.

Kara DioGuardi: Thought that Crystal was out of her element, but she liked her phrasing and her swing and rhythm. She was worried that Crystal was losing herself.

Simon Cowell: Simon wouldn't have chosen that song for Crystal. He thought the first half was too jazzy and night club-like. But the second half was better. He also commented that Crystal has had two okay weeks and she needs to be in it to win it, he expects better.

It seemed like the American Idol judges are concerned for Crystal's safety this week. The Sinatra style does not fit in with her usual bluesy sound. I think she still did a great job of singing a love song with a soft, romantic tone.