Personal Picks for 'American Idol' Top 11 Elton John Song Auditions

Initially, "Idol" announced a 1980s theme for the episode. However, the show's Twitter page announced March 25 (Elton John's birthday) that the Top 11 finalists would sing his hits.

Song selection is critical to "Idol." The right tune showcases a contestant's vocal chops and personality. A poor choice may lead to a forgettable audition, a vote drop and a ticket home.

What hit singles should the "Idol" singers select?

Here are my picks for the finalists. Most songs were created by Elton John and Bernie Taupin.

Casey Abrams - "Candle in the Wind"

Abrams may be the only 2011 "Idol" who could do justice to this 1973 Marilyn Monroe tribute. The one-man band could showcase multiple musical instruments for this classic.

Haley Reinhart - "I'm Still Standing"

A Season 10 comeback kid, Reinhart could go viral with a sultry growling cover of this 1983 tune from "Too Low for Zero."

Jacob Lusk - "Daniel"

Gospel belter Lusk could show his softer melodic side with this sweet song from the 1973 "Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player."

James Durbin - "Honky Cat"

The soft-hearted hard rocker might prowl with this 1972 "Honky Chateau" smash. Durbin is likely to choose 1973's "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting" from "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" or "Pinball Wizard" from the 1973 "Tommy" soundtrack.

Lauren Alaina - "Can You Feel the Love Tonight?"

Country singer Alaina is due for a tender tune like this one from Disney's 1994 "The Lion King," with lyrics by Tim Rice. Alaina could also shine with "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" from 1974's "Caribou."

Naima Adedapo - "Someone Saved My Life Tonight"

High-energy dancer and singer Adedapo needs to show some smoothness. This 1975 "Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy" number could do the trick.

Abrams probably sang this one after the judges' save last week, but he likely won't need saving again.

Paul McDonald - "Bennie and the Jets"

McDonald offered "I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues" earlier. In one of his trademark embroidered suits, the raspy singer could soar with this 1973 tune. Ah, but he's weird, and he's wonderful.

Pia Toscano - "Philadelphia Freedom"

Toscano might step out of the ballad box with an upbeat cover of this 1975 single, adding New York irony to this Philly tune.

Scotty McCreery - "Tiny Dancer"

With his "Aw, shucks" country boy demeanor and ultra-deep baritone voice, McCreery would take a whirl with this 1971 single from "Madman Across the Water."

Stefano Langone - "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road"

Emerging teen heartthrob Langone could step it up with this 1973 hit, although he is more likely to offer an emotional "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word."

Thia Megia - "Rocket Man"

Megia loves Disney songs. Instead of "Circle of Life" or "Can You Feel the Love Tonight," this tiny songbird needs a power play. How about taking a risk with this 1969 blast?

The "Idol" finalists may be tempted to choose personal favorites, but we hope they listen to Interscope Geffen A&M Records chairman and in-house mentor Jimmy Iovine and other inside counsel as they pick their tunes.

The Elton John installment of "Idol" will air Wednesday, March 30, at 8 p.m. ET. The results show will follow March 31, with a group performance of another Rocket Man tune or medley and two contestants heading home.

Will Elton John be watching, when the "Idol" finalists perform his songs on March 30?

Perhaps his own hits will entice the British star to tune in, although he is not a reality TV fan.

Originally considered as a potential "Idol" judge, along with Justin Timberlake, Sir Elton told the Daily Mail, "I'm not a fan of talent shows.... I don't want to be on television. It's become boring ... brain crippling [sic]."

Elton John is slated to host NBC's "Saturday Night Live" April 2, joining musical guest Leon Russell at 11:30 p.m. ET.

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