Top Five American Idols Attempt the Tunes of Sinatra

Harry Connick, Jr. was mentor to the American Idols on Tuesday, May 4^th's program as the top five Idols sang the classic hits of Frank Sinatra. Harry has a great style and sense of humor which the contestants seemed to enjoy very much. Harry went above and beyond, even charting songs for the vocalists. He brought along some of his principal musicians to accompany him as he played keyboards. The arrangements were outstanding. However, the Idols were not.

Let's take it from the bottom up...

Aaron Kelly looked tense and out of sorts singing "Fly Me to the Moon". When I watch Aaron perform, I find myself talking to the television, "Just cut loose, Aaron...let your voice go, you have talent." His confidence just isn't there yet. The only time he seemed at ease on American Idol was last week when he sat down to sing Shania Twain. We just might be singing "After You're Gone" to Aaron next week.

Casey James is a guy that I really like. I enjoy his voice, his humble personality, and of course he's not tough to look at either. He was struggling tonight on American Idol singing "Blue Skies". I liked the bluesy aspect of the song, but Casey just looked uneasy. Connick mentioned that Casey had 'nailed it' in practice. I really wish he would've nailed it when it counted.

Crystal Bowersox sang Sinatra's "Summer Wind" tonight on American Idol. Crystal is always good and tonight was no exception. With her vocal capacity, the audience and the judges are looking for more from Crystal They want to be wowed every week since they know she has it in her. Crystal is her own person and doesn't appear to me to be the type who will be swayed by what people want. She's going to do what feels right to her. That's part of her charm.

Mike Lynche was in his element tonight, dapper hat and all. He seemed relaxed and secure on American Idol singing "The Way You Look Tonight". I think he did well enough to hang around for another week.

Lee DeWyze stole the show singing "That's Life". It started out with Connick on organ, which was a nice touch. I appreciated the way Lee kept his own style, yet integrated it well with this classic song. He seemed comfortable and even provided a little of that 'cool factor' that's so closely associated with Ole' Blue Eyes.

I don't know if it was my imagination, but the songs seemed extra short tonight. Maybe if they'd been longer, the Idols would've done more justice to the songs. Other than Lee DeWyze, the only thing that really moved me was the music of the band.

Top Six American Idols Reach New Heights Singing Shania Twain Songs April 27, 2010

Source: American Idol; Fox Channel, May 4, 2010