Season Nine of American Idol is Taking on a Life of It's Own

American Idol, season 9, is now down to it's final four. Normally at this point in the season, people are buzzing about who they think will win it all. After the past two weeks, in which Siobhan Magnus and Aaron Kelly have been sent packing, I say good luck to all of the fortune tellers. Anyone would be hard pressed to figure out why Casey James is still around. The common theme is when you have a good week, go back to the apartment and start packing. When you have a terrible week, feel free to make a reservation at a local Hollywood restaurant for the next week.

The bigger buzz these past few days is about Harry Connick Jr. Harry was this week's mentor. Not only did he interact with all of the contestants on a personal level, he also played all of their arrangements while they performed. There is a movement on Facebook, which I have joined, to convince the shows play callers to hire Harry for next year. Not only was he the 'Mentor of the Year," I think he won over the hearts of America. He was funny, charming, talented, and comfortable in the spotlight, and that was only the first 5 minutes. More on this later.

Back to the contestants for a bit. Oh yeah, there is still a show going on. I've been writing about Idol since the opening show this year, and I've written numerous articles trying to predict who is going home. After the top ten were revealed, I wrote who I thought would be in the top five. I would have been 5 for 5, if America hadn't sent Siobhan Magnus home last week. Using a scoring system, known only to myself, I guess, I had Siobhan in the top three this year. Although I did not truly think that Siobhan or Aaron would win it all, I'm very surprised they went home before Michael Lynche or Casey James.

I did not meet a single viewer this past week, who did not have Casey going home. Simon even told him that it was a good thing he had a scheduled gig back home for this week. But alas, America voted, and Casey was not in the bottom two. If you asked Casey today, I'm sure he is even surprised to still be around.

So, who is going to win it all? Frankly, I don't really care. And I'm not positive that America doesn't feel the same way. Crystal Bowersox and Lee Dewyze seem to be the final two, with Lee getting the edge, but who knows? It seems to be more fun talking about who will replace Simon next season.

After watching the top five sing this week, that question seems to be answered. Harry Connick Jr. was more than anyone would have ever thought. I invite you to read more about his mentoring with other Associated Content writers, but suffice to say, he wowed everyone. I don't know if he is interested in the job, but he sure did seem to be auditioning for it. The other pressing question is will the producers want the rest of the panel back.

American Idol will have a Season Ten. I don't think we are all ready to let it go just yet. Let's see what the rest of this year brings us. Next week is "Songs from Movies" week. As always, stay tuned!