Crystal Bowersox was in it to Win It: American Idol 5/25/2010 Performance by Mamasox Rocks!

We have seen a young girl, from the streets and the school of hard knocks come into our world, and become affectionately dubbed "Momasox".

The lady is a winner. From the judges' perspective tonight, Bowersox rocked. From her song choices, to her stage presence which she went out of her comfort zone on, she scored high on audience engagement, high on connection to the material, and as she has throughout, great with showmanship and attitude, and genuine vocal ability. She is a musician, she is a top contender, and in my opinion, she will be the one.

Tonight, Crystal performed some oldies but goodies. She did "Bobby McGee" and with her usual Crystallized flair, she played with the melody just enough to make it shine, belting her lower register and softly glossing over the high notes, clearly annunciating, and using phrasing, even over timing in some cases.

She was telling a story, and it was believable. It was a good choice for her to make.

The second song from Crystal tonight on American Idol was "Black Velvet". This is a hard song to sing, and Crystal pulled it off with elegance and grace. Again, she changed it up and she gave the song even a bit more attitude. This one had been producer Simon Fuller's choice, and I think he did her justice.

For her final bit, Crystal sang an inspiration song, "Up to the Mountain," and it was not a song I recognized but it didn't matter. Crystal commanded the song, and endeared herself to the audience, with the words, "I am here, because you asked me to be."

Crystal used this last opportunity to tell the audience it was up to them. Not surprisingly, the audience gave Crystal back everything she poured out in this song. They cheered, and screamed, and the judges gave her accolades for a best season performance. Outstanding.

Lee DeWyze didn't seem to be in it to win it tonight. Crystal definitely was. Looking forward to seeing more of this musician and artist.

By the way, did you catch the Subway commercials touting "Momasox"? I love advertising! Crystal wished Simon Cowell well on his endeavors. Will it be the same next year without Simon? I guess we'll have to see, but I think he will be missed. I know I will miss him too.

Source:

American Idol, Fox Television, 5/25/2010