Syesha Mercado's Performance on American Idol: Neil Diamond Week

In every season of American Idol, there is at least one contestant who, while monstrously talented, can't break through the media noise and shine as bright as the others. This year it's Syesha Mercado. She's got the vocals, she's got the range, yet for some reason - no, two reasons, and they're both named David - she has found herself in the "stool section" for the last few elimination nights.

But in Syesha Mercado's two Neil Diamond numbers on April 29th's show, "Hello Again" and "Thank The Lord For The Nighttime," she proved that she has earned her spot in the top five, and deserves to move on.

"Hello Again" showcased the sweetness of her voice and tremendous vocal control, while "Thank The Lord..." brought the house down. That one in particular was a perfect match for her playful, theatrical side and big, booming voice.

But whenever Syesha Mercado takes the microphone, I wonder if I've watched a different performance than the rest of America. I see a killer turn like Syesha's version of "One Rock-n-Roll Too Many" during Andrew Lloyd Webber week and wonder why the heck she ended up in the bottom three. The judges love her: Simon called her the most talented female performer of the season.

Yet no matter how sincerely Simon implores America, Idol is far more than a "singing competition." It's just as much about popularity. Which, unfortunately, means that Syesha is facing stiff competition. The two Davids seem to have a lock on the top two (with David Cook being far more talented), and Jason Castro (come on...dreadlock extensions??), while he did himself no favors with his recent lackluster performances, has a huge fan base and probably will sneak into the top three.

Despite Simon's warning that Syesha may be the next Idol to go home, I think Brooke White will be singing her swan song next. If this truly were a "singing competition," Syesha Mercado would end up in third place, instead of fourth, where I believe she will land.

Well, no matter if Syesha goes home this week or next, I have no worries about her future. Watch out Clay Aiken, Fantasia, and Jennifer Hudson - with her dramatic flair, killer smile and pipes to die for, this girl's bound to be a Broadway baby.