Season 12 American Idol Review (Winner Announced!) + Top 20 Most Memorable Performances of the Season


american idol candice glover wins american idol season 12 american idol candice american idol candice family

…and that winner would be…

CANDICE GLOVER!!

This is my third year writing American Idol recaps and, for the first time, I finally get to write “The right person won.”

The right person won.

There was a time when Kree was my favorite. There was even a week where I put Amber in my #1 spot (before she sort of floundered). But Candice has always been the rock of this season. She’s the most consistent. She has the strongest voice. She chose the best songs with the most variety. This year we were lucky to have a very strong top 5…but, despite that, Candice usually rose to the top. That is why, when I reveal my top 20 towards the end of the post, you’ll see she takes up nearly half the slots. She has been that good.

I haven’t been this satisfied and pleased with a winner since season 7. Dats da troof.

However, I should say some nice things to Kree. I meant what I said last week: I would have been happy if Kree had won. She has been a calm, consistent presence throughout the competition. Her spirit is full. Her demeanor is relaxed. She has a great, humble personality. (I found it really endearing that she allowed Candice to go last during the performance show.) If she sticks with country, I believe she’ll do just fine. Actually, I hope all the finalists find some sort of success or happiness from being on this show. It’s weird…I didn’t think this top 10 got along very well in the beginning of the live shows. But seeing them be so supportive towards Candice and Kree these last couple of weeks has been darn right inspiring. Despite all the negative press, these tykes seem to be having the time of their lives (more on that later). So…go them!

This season has been interesting. Despite it’s relatively low ratings, it’s gotten a lot of buzz and has been the ridicule discussion of every entertainment site. I honestly don’t hate this season as much as the rest of world does. Maybe I’m just happy that we got a female winner. I dunno…but I honestly didn’t dislike this season. I watched every episode. I anticipated every performance show. Clearly, I enjoyed the show…or else I wouldn’t be watching it. However, I DO think this show needs a major makeover for next season. Better theme weeks. More helpful mentoring. A new judging panel (maybe keep Keith, but definitely get rid of Mariah). I’d even limit the voting and shorten the results shows but…I know FOX would never do that in million years.

This show has bounced from slumps before. Season 9 still remains my least favorite season…but season 10 and 11 were comparatively better. I have faith in this show. It’s still a high rated show (technically). If TPTB want to continue this show…then I let them. But they need to work hard…or else their ratings will fall even lower. But I faith in this show. I certainly still like it more than the other singing competition shows (Sorry, Voice fans!)

But, enough about that…let’s discuss some of my favorite moments from the finale…

1. THE HUMOR - It was weird, and almost a little cringe worthy…but I appreciate that the show was willing to take such jabs against itself. I liked the skit about the girls sabotaging the guys so they would be eliminated one by one (the show’s thinly veiled way of admitting that they manipulated things so a girl would win, maybe?) And I liked the skit where the contestants made fun of the judges (particularly Nicki and Randy). I dunno…I laughed. It was funny. Kill me. The one part was a little too much was the “The Voice” diss. I dunno…a LOT of AI viewers LOVE The Voice. I’m not sure if they would appreciate that joke, much.

2. MARIAH - Yeah, she’s still got it. I adored her little medley. Just her, on stage, in a sparkly gown, singing her hits. That’s all we ask from her (literally),

3. AMBER and EMELIE - “Next To Me” is still stuck in my head. They both sounded great together.

4. CANDICE and JENNIFA HUDSON - That’s right. “Jennifa.” Those harmonies were sick.

5. ANGIE and FRIENDS - Those friends being Adam Lambert and Jessie J. Quelle sick!

6. KREE and JUDGES - Kree sounded really awesome next to Keith and…Randy. I always forget that Randy is actually a talented bassist. Maybe he should go back to doing that…

7. JENNIFER LOPEZ and PITBULL - What can I say? Her dance moves slay me.

And of course, the best moment was seeing Candice reprise her coronation song  ”I Am Beautiful” to a crazy load of confetti. Awes!

But, seriously, I definitely got choked up seeing Candice’s dreams come true. I’ve been following her on Youtube for the last year, hoping that one day she would get the success she deserves…I’m glad she got it.

Before I FINALLY list my top 20…I should talk about Randy a little. Even though I truly believe this is the right time for him to leave (and for the show to get rid of him), I will miss Randy. I don’t think he was completely useless. During the first 7 seasons with the original trio of judges, sometimes he was a nice mediator between the loopy/too nice Paula and the sometimes overly critical Simon. He was a necessary member of the panel and I’m glad he was there. Yeah, Randy wasn’t the most articulate judge on television…

Anyway…let’s close this. Here are my 20 favorite performances from the season.

20. Janelle Arthur “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” (top 6) – A breezy, fun performance that showed Janelle’s personality well.

19. Devin Velez “It’s Impossible” (semis) – A performance that PROVES he has a beautiful voice.

18. Kree Harrison “Piece of My Heart” (top 7) – Sometimes you can show some real grit in a performance while you’re in pain.

17. Burnell Taylor “I’m Here” (semis) – Best male solo performance of the season.

16. Candice Glover “Ordinary People” (semis) – A solid, clean performance that propelled her to front runner status.

15. Angie Miller “Try” (top 3) – I was totally fist pumping during this one.

14. Candice Glover “I Am Beautiful” (top 2) – A great “FU” for anyone who has ever told her she wasn’t “commercial” enough (or some BS like that).

13. Candice Glover “I Who Have Nothing” (top 2) – The acapella beginning gave me chills.

12. Candice Glover “Satisfaction” (top 7) – One of the moments of the season where she really rocked out.

11, Kree Harrison “What the World Needs Now…” (top 6) – A beautiful, contemporary rearrangement that fit her voice perfectly.

10. Janelle Arthur “Dumb Blonde” (top 5) – If only more contestants this season took more risks like this. Task: listen to the Dolly Parton version…and then listen to Janelle’s interpretation. Exactly.

9. Candice Glover “Straight Up” (top 5) – Bububububye.

8. Amber Holcomb “Love On Top” (top 6) – A bubbly, infectious performance that gave us a glimpse at how current she could be.

7. Janelle Arthur “You Keep Me Hanging On” (top 8) – One of the best interpretations of any song  this season.

6. Candice Glover “Don’t Make Me Over” (top 6) – TAKE ME FOR WHAT I AM! Seriously. Gawl. (I liked this performance more than “Love song.”)

5. Candice and Burnell “The Letter” (top 7) – Harmonies were sick. Probably Burnell’s finest moment. At least he left the show on a good note.

4. Candice, Angie, Amber “I’m Gonna Make You Love Me” (top 8) – Sassy performance from my three favorite contestants this season.

3. Amber Holcomb “She’s Leaving Home” (top 9) – If Amber had taken more risks like this, maybe she would have made it longer on the show…

2. Angie Miller “Who You Are” (top 4) – An electric performance that was needed in an otherwise disappointing performance night.

1. Candice Glover “Come Together” (top 9) – Beatles Night was probably my favorite episode this season…This performance is just so much fun and so different from what Candice usually gave us. I knew if Candice could conquer this song, she could conquer anything.

Well…thanks for following me this season. I had a lot of rants but…I still enjoyed recapping the show. Let’s see what next year will bring.

Also…please PLEASE PLEASE support your favorite contestants after this season. Whether your favorite was Candice or even Lazaro…please SUPPORT them. We take “who wins” too seriously nowadays. What matters is the success after the show (just ask Daughtry). So seriously…support them (and, if you haven’t already, buy Jessica Sanchez’s new album…it should be doing better!)

Bye! Next up… EMMY TALK! Stay tuned for that.

2013
05/17
CATEGORY
american idol
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music
recap
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Goodbye, The Office


the office finale jim and pam the office finale the office finale jim the office finale dwight

It’s the end of an era.

I don’t know how to start this post. There are so many emotions and feelings right now. I guess I’ll start with the beginning. And the beginning begins with 30 Rock. 30 Rock was the first adult, single camera TV show that I watched and enjoyed. Before the first season of 30 Rock, The Office had become really popular, especially among the students in my school. But, considering I was still in my “Disney/Nickelodeon” stage, it wasn’t a show I was much interested in. In fact, the first ever episode of The Office I watched was the season 4 premiere “Fun Run”…and I still didn’t think much of it (NOW, I love the episode…it’s really one of those jarring episodes I wouldn’t recommend a newcomer watching first though).

However, during the third season of 30 Rock, The Office was in its 5th season. I was so obsessed 30 Rock…but, really, I was also just obsessed with “comedy” in general. I needed another show I could watch when I had no more new 30 Rock episodes to watch (at that that point, I’d gone through every episode at least thrice). So…I reluctantly turned to The Office on Hulu. A few episodes had already aired in the season so I decided to start from the beginning: “Weight Loss.” Yes, I was confused because I obviously wasn’t familiar with the characters or their situations. Yes, looking back, it’s sort of a bummer that I saw Jim happily propose to Pam before seeing how their relationship had developed beforehand. But, man, when I watched Kelly Kapoor obsess over her weight and look sickly as a result, I cracked up so hard and realized that, hey, this show was actually pretty good.

So during my senior year of high school, I happily watched 30 Rock and The Office side by side, and my love of both shows grew exponentially. (I ended up watching the earlier seasons during my freshmen year of college when I got Netflix for a full month free…best moments of my college life.)  It’s appropriate for me to start this way because, the “The Office/30 Rock” hour long comedy block was just perfect television for me. The two best comedy shows during that time together on one network, one night, one hour – so convenient. It was “Must See TV.” Maybe, in terms of ratings, the block never reached the highs of The Cosby Show (the best family sitcom IMO), Friends (a show I’ve only mildly enjoyed), or even Will and Grace (still a favorite of mine), but, personally, ratings don’t mean much to me. It’s about how I feel about a show. And 30 Rock and The Office were shows that made me feel happy and giddy and excited.

The two shows were different…they almost clashed. But…opposites attract. 30 Rock was zany, weird, filled with cultural references, cutaways,  and famous guest stars. The Office, however, was still zany, but a lot more subtle and realistic. 30 Rock highlighted the extraordinary, while The Office celebrated the ordinary. Both were effective and both had different strengths (yes, I always preferred 30 Rock but…let’s not get into that).

Add in Parks and Rec and Community, and, at one point, we really had a comedy night done right. Why people clung to the likes Two and a Half Men and Rules of Engagement over this…I’ll never know.

So…yeah…it’s the end of a comedy era.

The Office is a show I can’t help but look fondly on;; especially during seasons 2 to 5, the show simply hit it’s marks so well. There were awkward moments (like when Michael attempted to kiss Oscar), there were sentimental moments (like when Michael bought Pam’s painting), there were sweet romantic moments (Dwight and Angela / Pam and Jim / Michael and Holly), and…well…there was comedy. A lot and a lot of laughter. I truly believe this comedy will become a classic. In 50 years, as people are tossing their Modern Family DVDs, they will say “Hmmm…The Office not only popularized the mockumentary format, but it also did it the best.”

What I loved about the show was that it was a true ensemble. Yes, Michael was the center of attention. And, yeah, Jim, Pam, Andy, and Dwight were given more screen time than the others. But, really, it was a true, strong, almost unbreakable ensemble. Every character contributed something to every episode. Whether it was a line towards the camera, or even a small facial expression, every character did their part. It was a workplace comedy that didn’t treat the lesser characters as “environment.” They all had personalities and they all had moments.

This is why initially, I didn’t think it was a bad idea  when the producers decided to continue with the show despite Steve Carell’s departure. I thought with Michael going (as sad as it was), it would give the smaller characters a bigger chance to shine. I thought the show would remain perfect and hilarious…but then the writers gave us a James Spader bomb* and things only got worse from there. By the middle of season 8, I watched an episode and I realized that…I wasn’t laughing anymore. I wasn’t enjoying myself. The show took a nose dive the same way Weeds did during its 6th season…thus, I just couldn’t watch anymore. And judging from the reviews from fans and critics, it doesn’t seem like the show got better.

*Did anyone notice that during the retrospective, when the cast members were recounting their favorite guest stars, a certain someone was missing from the discussion? Exactly.

But I had to watch the last few episodes of this season, including the finale, and I have to say they’ve been excellent, filled with little moments that have reminded me why I loved the show in the first place. This series finale had so many amazing moments (Dwight and Angela’s wedding, Toby breaking down at Pam, and the last scene where they’re all in the office one last time, Kelly and Ryan’s escape into the sunset). The one where I really broke down was when Michael came back for Dwight’s wedding. I knew, despite conflicting reports, that Michael would make a cameo…I just didn’t know in what way. Michael coming back to support Dwight was perfect and it truly cemented their friendship “friendship.” So…will I ever go back and watch the episodes I missed? Maybe…but I’m going to start at seasons 1 and 2 so I can fully remember why I fell in love with this show in the first place.

But despite a rocky post-Michael era, that doesn’t take away the legacy this show has created. Shows like The Office, 30 Rock, and Arrested Development (the latter show which is, technically (and ironically) the last show standing) really shaped TV comedy for the future. Whether it’s been single camera or even traditional multi-camera, I think every television comedy that’s on air right now has taken something from these shows. The Office is a show I’ll miss deeply…and I hope everyone in the cast moves on to bigger and better things (love The Mindy Project right now!)

Before I go, I do want reveal my two favorite episodes of the series. SO many episodes (practically every episode from season 2 and 3 could be a contender) but…there are two that especially stand out. One is season 3′s “Business School,” mostly because I LOVE that moment between Pam and Michael. I remember when I first watched the episode…it really took me by surprise how emotional it got. However, my absolute  favorite episode would have to be “Dinner Party” from season 4. I love Michael and Holly…but Michael and Jan’s dysfunctional weird relationship is still a highlight from the earlier seasons.

So…that’s it. I feel like, as a senior who will be graduating from college this weekend, things will be coming full circle. When I’m in apartment during my first year of graduate school, I’ll be, once again, laughing and crying from one of the finest comedy shows ever made.

Thank you for reading.

PS…I also still need to watch the UK version. I know. I know. I’m awful.

2013
05/17
CATEGORY
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Season 12 American Idol Results Review (Our TOP 2 IS ANNOUNCED!!!)


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This is going to be very short because…I have a 10 page paper I need to finish by tomorrow noon (hashtag exam week…hashtag senior week! hashtag graduation can’t come soon enough!) This is also why I didn’t post a recap last night. I did watch the episode though. The hometown visits were emotional like usual (esp. Kree’s) and the performances were great (esp. Angie’s “Try” and Candice’s everything). So I came into this results show having no idea who would make the top 2.

All 3 are excellent. Like I stated last week, despite my sadness over Amber leaving, I felt this season gave us one of the most dynamic and evenly matched top 3′s ever. HOWEVER…I was really rooting for a Candice/Angie finale. And after hearing Kree’s emotionless “Friggin’ Perfect” last night, my feelings got a little stronger. Still, I came into this results show with a mixture of excitement and nervousness (both kinds of “anxiousness” according to the 1998 Parent Trap).

I definitely wanted Candice to make the top 2. She’s the contestant I’m rooting for the most. So when she was called out first, I immediately jumped up and shouted “EFF YAH!!!’” over and over again. The audience and the judges (esp. the judges) seemed pumped. Candice was understandably shocked. It seemed like the whole world was singing with a bottle of Coke.

And, at that moment, I figured Kree would be the one going home because…I pegged Angie for the winner. She had the most Twitter followers. She had never been in the bottom “anything!” She had a strong voice but she looked marketable. I mean, she was polarizing…but her fan base was strong enough to keep her afloat…

And then Ryan called Kree’s name and I was like…whaaaat. 

It was definitely a shocker…and I 100% believe that Angie should have been in the finals with Candice. But…Kree has been great all season long. It’s an exciting, intriguing shock…and it’s not the worst thing in the world because Kree is amazing in her own right. This isn’t even close to when Jasmine Trias made the top 3 over Latoya London. This isn’t a bad shock…it’s an interesting shock.

It’s an interesting shock that makes me happy because…for the last 5 years we’ve had to deal with skinny, white, “attractive,” boy next door winners. I know this season has had seem relatively low ratings (it’s still a top 10 show…and it’s in its 12th season!!!) and I know this season isn’t “perfect.” But…it’s nice that the typical “American Idol audience” is embracing 2, slightly heavyset, mature female singers. It is truly astounding. It really gives me hope. It took some manipulation from Nigel and co. but…WHEN has the show NOT been manipulative? When it was pimping out the likes of Lee, Scotty and Phillip? Exactly. For once, Nigel used his manipulation skills for good. THERE! I SAID IT!

So…am I happy with this top 2? Inspired? Excited? Yes!

But…was this really and truly the right top 2? Honestly…no. I’m sorry, Kree fans. Yes, Kree was consistent. But Angie took more risks. She sang more uptempo songs. She sang more current songs. Her song selections interesting. Lately, Kree’s been putting me to sleep a bit. Angie’s been improving in this competition while Kree has been settling. Growing and improving is what this show is about…and Kree simply hasn’t been living up to that standard.

So…unless something drastically happens next week, I am whole-heartily rooting for Candice. And while Kree winning would obviously be a welcome change of pace from the last 5 winners…I will probably be a little bit disappointed if Candice isn’t given the confetti shower.

I’m sure Vote For the Worst is ecstatic though…even if picking Kree was bullshit.

So…Angie Miller got the boot. Very shocking. I believe she was singing her original song Colton Dixon’s “Never Gone”. She could barely get through it. She really looked messed up (in a smiley sort of way.) It’s interesting comparing her elimination with Amber’s. While Amber’s tears were more “I knew this was going to happen, but I’m still very sad,” Angie’s were more like “I’m just happy I made it this far but I REALLY thought I would win and I REALLY wanted to win but I’m still proud of those 2 girls but still…god dammit.” Just an interesting little ….

But I was very emotional watching this result show. I mean these girls have been so good. They seem so close and…I just feel the sisterhood this season. Maybe Burnell hates Devin. And Devin hates Nicki Minaj. And Curtis hates Lazaro. And Lazaro hates everyone who isn’t Amber*…. But the 5 females really had a bond this season (like the TPTB wanted all along).

*I’m just kidding guys. Obviously.

Anyway…thanks for reading. And, yes, I will be recapping next week.

PS…so…Randy is leaving. It was time. I think he had slivers of greatness (like when he was being brutally honest, ie. “That was straight up terrible, dawg”) but…it was time.

Apparently, TPTB are looking to replace the whole judging panel. I disagree with this. Keep KEITH because he’s normal and he hasn’t really done anything wrong this season. Keep NICKI because she’s honest and she clearly cares about the contestants even if she is a little wacky. And…yeah, you can dump Mariah. And then hire either Melinda Doolittle, Adam Lambert, or just a random unfamous person who is working in the music business and would know his stuff, like a pre-X Factor Simon Cowell. Keep the panel to 3. And we might have a good show.

2013
05/09
CATEGORY
american idol
fox
music
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Season 12 American Idol Results Overview (Top 3 Announced)


amber holcomb

Before we talk about tonight’s results, I want look back at the past eleven “top 3′s.” Let’s see how this season’s top 3 stacks up with the others.

Season 1: This probably would have been a solid top 3 if Tamyra had made it. Nikki was a cute underdog but she was clearly out of her league against the other 2.

Season 2: This top 3 was absolutely perfect with Ruben, Kimberly and Clay. In fact…I really loved Josh Gracin during that season so I even thought the top 4 was perfect.

Season 3: I know everyone LOVED the “three divas” during the season…but I honestly wasn’t a huge fan of Jhud until Dreamgirls. That being said, the “three divas” being the top 3 would have been better than Jasmine Trias making it. What bunk!

Season 4: This…is not a season I know much about (I know, ironic). So…I honestly don’t know anything about Vonzell. Next!

Season 5: Overall, this was a good top 3. Similar to Jennifer Hudson, I didn’t feel much for Daughtry while he was in the competition. Confession alert: Taylor Hicks was actually my favorite during the season. So…I dunno, maybe this top 3 would have been better if Daughtry had been in there for McPhee…

Season 6: Unlike a lot of people, season 6 is actual a favorite of mine (minus Sanjaya…although he was hilariously bad, unlike some other VFTW picks who were simply bad). I quite liked this top 3. But, I probably would have switched Blake for Lakisha.

Season 7: This season focused so much on “David vs. David” that the third finalist didn’t even matter much. Sorry!

Season 8: Ugh. What was Danny Gokey doing there? Replace him with the wonderful Allison Iraheta and we would have had the best top 3 ever.

Season 9: Season 9 sucked. Top 3? More like top 1 (and that “1″ was Crystal Bowersox.)

Season 10: Solid top 3 but Haley was CLEARLY on another level.

Season 11: Overall good top 3…but I still have very mixed feelings over Phillip Phillips.

So…I think I would say the most “evenly matched” tops 3′s occurred during season 2, season 5, season 6, and the last couple of seasons. Why the long introduction? Just so I could make the declaration that season 12, despite all its problems, has given us one of the strongest, most evenly matched top 3′s in American Idol history. I’m not saying this was a perfect season as a whole. I’m not even saying the top 10 was all that great. But these three girls remaining are (for the most part) the cream that have thankfully risen to the top of my mocha cap.

And I think this is a very diverse top 3. We have Candice who has an R&B Jazmine Sullivan thing going on. We have Angie who is a Miley Cyrus-inspired pop rocker, sort of a female Billy Joel if you will. And then we have Kree: the thoughtful, mature country girl. All three contestants have something great to offer. And…most importantly…THEY ARE ALL GIRLS. I know I know…we’ve known this for 3+ weeks now; but this season is going to give us our first female winner in 6 years. Quelle exciting!

So people can bitch and complain at how manipulative this show has been this season (because American Idol TOTALLY has never been manipulative before). I will be enjoying these fine ladies battle it out until the end. And, while I’m still rooting for an Angie/Candice finale at this point, even the thought of Kree winning makes me smile. I’m happy…

But, a few minutes ago, I was a bawling mess. I usually don’t cry during eliminations. The last few times I remember crying was when Haley was eliminated in season 10, Allison in season 8, and Melinda in season 6 (I also cried after Crystal performed “People Get Ready” in season 9 but that’s different story.) But when my little Amber Holcomb got eliminated, my stomach dropped. And then when she was trying to get through “I Believe in You and Me,” my eyes water. And when her father came on stage to hug her, I lost it. Wooh! Emotions!

This wasn’t surprising. We all saw it coming. Most people believed Amber should have been the next to go. Honestly, I still prefer Amber to Kree but…maybe it was Amber’s time. It was Amber’s time. She had a great run but, quite honestly, I have to compare her to Candice. Candice is simply the stronger, more experienced artist. So if one of them had to go…then it’s good that it was Amber. I wish Amber had grown more during her run…but maybe that needs to happen off the show.

But…she really was a contestant I enjoyed immensely throughout the competition. Some of her performances early in the season still stick in my head (She’s Loving Home – which is definitely making my top 20 list in a few weeks, Lately, What About Love, Love on Top). It’s very impressive that she was able to make it far despite barely being featured before the Las Vegas round. She clearly made her mark with “My Funny Valentine” (her first performance) and that’s impressive enough. Even though she’s gone, she will always be a member of the “original fab 4.”

So…where does she go from here? Who knows? I’m not going to sit here and pretend she’ll be the next Whitney. It seems like fewer and fewer AI finalists find commercial success post tour. But…she still did something a lot of singers would not have been able to do and that’s a reward in itself.

However…if/when she puts out a new single (maybe with the help of Nicki?), I’ll be the first to download it.

Anyway, I think I’m just going to end this post here. A few other things happened but I think everything I needed say was said tonight. See ya next week (…maybe.)

Byeeeez!!!!

2013
05/02
CATEGORY
american idol
drama
fox
music
predictions
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Season 12 American Idol Quick Recap (Top 4 Perform Again!)


american idol top 4

So, here’s the deal: I’m in the midst of exam week and I literally have zero time to watch television (except for Veep of course…yay renewal!) but…I made a commitment to this show. So I’m going to review all the performances…but I’m going to do that thing where I only use 4 SENTENCES for each performance. K? Coo. First up…

Angie Miller: She sang “Diamonds” by Rihanna. Side note: she’s hilarious with Harry Connick Jr. This is my favorite Rihanna song so I won’t be biased. Angie continues to amaze me every week. I prefer the original arrangement more…but I could definitely see myself listening to this version a few more times. And I really can’t complain when someone changes a song and makes it their own.

Amber Holcomb: She sang “Just Give Me A Reason” by Pink and Nate Ruess. Very interesting song choice…definitely a risk. She’s still has problems with diction…I couldn’t understand half the words she was singing, dawg. The uptempo parts were better than the slow beginning. Her voice is still slammin’ good but  I don’t think she was fully comfortable with the song.

Candice Glover: She sang “When I Was Your Man” by Bruno Mars. This is another perfect performance from Miss Candice. When the beat really kicks in, she truly shines. She is a true professional and just seems so “at home” on stage. Now for a negative thing: I wish she had chosen something more uptempo to show how current she can really be…but that’s just me.

Kree Harrison: She sang “See You Again” by Carrie Underwood. I have mixed feelings: While her voice was excellent and pure…and while she showed some emotion during the performance (much more than last weeks’s)…I still tuned out a little during the performance. It’s probably her strongest performance in a while…but, musically, I still don’t think she’s truly jumped out the box yet.

Here’s how I’d rank the girls so far tonight: 1. Angie 2. Candice 3. Amber and Kree are tied. Kree technically gave a better performance, but Amber’s didn’t bore me (if that makes sense).

Time for the old songs…

Angie Miller: She sang “Someone to Watch Over Me.” I think Angie does two things very well: She’s very classy and sophisticated, but at the same she still has a little rock opera edge towards the end which I always enjoy. It would have been interesting to see her play this on the piano, but I still liked the performance overall.

Amber Holcomb: She sang “My Funny Valentine.” Awww….poor Amber…but Harry Connick Jr. may have a point. Oh geez…Amber is crying. This makes me sad. I think it must be tough to be told all this praise by the judges, and then have everyone hate you because of that praise, and then still end up in the bottom 2 week after week. I think she knows she probably didn’t do enough to make it to the next round. But – still – very good performance.

Candice Glover: She sang “You’ve Changed.” Candice always has such control when she’s singing and tonight is no different. This was just a beautiful, breezy performance with the right amount of subtlety and power. I just love how her voice is able to go through different emotions, volumes and levels…all in one 2 minute performance. Perfection.

Kree Harrison: She sang “Stormy Weather.” Same thing again: Points for voice. Points for maturity and consistency. But demerits for being bland and sleepy. I think this song needed more sass and grit. She just seemed timid here…like she was in her own world (and not in a good way.)

They closed the show with a group performance of “Wings” which…I found funnier more than anything. It was just so cheesy and fake. I especially cracked up at the part towards the end when they’re marching or something. Just…I didn’t get it, TBH.

Anyway…it was nice to hear these girls again. I LOVED Harry Connick Jr. for the most part and…I agree with the majority, I think they should consider hiring him to be a judge. I thought he was incredibly insightful (and hilarious.)

But…now it’s time for the competition to really begin. Time for an elimination! At this point, I’m pretty much rooting for an Angie/Candice finale so I think those 2 should be in the top 2. I wouldn’t mind seeing Amber leave, but I still like her more than Kree who has been boring me recently. However, if Kree must stay another week, I hope she at least gets a taste of the bottom 2 to give her the push she needs. But, yeah, I think Amber’s going.

OK…see ya guys tonight! And I promise, no more rants.

2013
05/02
CATEGORY
american idol
fox
music
predictions
recap
review
television
tv
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2013 Early Emmy Talk #1(The “locks”)


modern family

Last year, when I did this post for the 2012 Emmys, I actually predicted most of the locks right. The only ones I got wrong was Parks and Recreation for Series and John Slattery for Supporting Actor. However, I was still very weary about making a post this year because…for some reason, I feel like we’re in store for some really big surprises this summer. With some shows finishing out their tenures (and some new shows coming out), it’s tough figuring which shows and people are “safe.” The truth is…no one’s ever truly safe. Last year, everyone and their mother predicted Parks and Recreation and Louie for series nominations, and maybe even wins. Instead, they were surprisingly overturned by the likes of Veep (yay!) and Girls. So…it may be a bit silly to make predictions this early in the season…but, the Emmy bug is itching so…here goes.

Just a reminder, here are some ground rules:

1. This is not an OFFICIAL prediction list. I actually don’t make concrete predictions until voting’s over. I’m just going to name the 1 or 2 people in each category that, no matter what, will most likely get a nomination. That’s all…

2. I never consider new shows and new actors “locks.” Even if it’s PAINFULLY obvious, I leave them out for now. Remember when we all thought Luck would dominate? Exactly. (Side note: are there really any new series this year that are major contenders this year? Is House of Cards that big of a threat?)

3. …I think that’s it, actually.

OK. Here are the locks for the 2013 Emmys as of April 29th…

COMEDY

Lead Actor: With Larry David out of the way this year, we have one slot open…a slot that will probably be filled by either Matt LeBlanc (Episodes) or Jason Bateman (Arrested Development). However, this a category that seldom sees much movement so…Alec Baldwin (for his last season), Jim Parsons, Jon Cryer (last year’s winner) and Louie CK remain the four strongest contenders this year. Don Cheadle is very much in the game but…I can’t help thinking that last year might have been a “one time thing.” I guess we’ll see.

Lead Actress: She probably won’t win, but Tina Fey is most definitely getting in for her last season of 30 Rock. Last year’s winner and reliable Emmy favorite Julia Louis Dreyfuss is also in (and might even win again if the rest of season 2 is as good as these first 3 episodes). Parks and Recreation may be losing stock, but the likable Amy Poehler should stick around. And, last, I think America’s sweetheart Lena Dunham should have another chance of Emmy gold after being routinely snubbed last year. There aren’t many new contenders in this category, so we might very well see the same nominations we got last year. Newbie Mindy Kaling could squeeze in though…but again, I’m not considering newbies (not that I that I think she’s much of a lock anyway).

Supporting Actor: Is it too easy to assume that all four Modern Family dudes will be back this year? It’s tough because Arrested Development could bring a couple supporting actors of their own…and that would still be a perfect six. But still…supporting actor is tighter than you may think. I haven’t watched a single episode of MF this year so I have no inkling who’s been standing out. But…I think previous winners Eric Stonestreet and Ty Burrell are safe. If this is going to be the year that voters think outside the “Modern Family box.” then I believe those two will be left standing.

Supporting Actress: Because there are only two adult women in the Modern Family cast, I think it’ll be easier for Julie Bowen and Sofia Vergara to get in easily. As for everyone else? Good luck. If Jane Krakowski hadn’t been egregiously snubbed last year, she would definitely be a lock because it was 30 Rock‘s final season. However, because Emmy voters usually play the “Once you’re out, you’re always out” game, it’ll be a tough road for Jane K. Jessica Walter (AD) may also be a contender and could even win if given the chance. And last year’s surprise nominees Mayim Bialik and Merrit Weaver are still in the game…even though I’m quite confident both will be knocked out come July. (Hey…a Girls gotta eat.)

Series: There are three locks this year: Modern Family because…well…it’s Modern Family, 30 Rock (because their last season was universally acclaimed unlike the last seasons of past Emmy bait shows like Will and Grace. ) and Girls. Everything else is in a bubble. For Veep, it’s too early to say…although I would love to see it get nominated again. For Arrested Development….it’s even more too early because none of the episodes have premiered yet and, well, they could in theory be crap (also, we don’t quite know how voters will react to online television being in contention). Big Bang Theory remains the highest rated comedy on television. I haven’t watched it all this season (actually there are a lot of comedy shows I’ve missed on this season for one reason or another)…but I’ve heard even the most diehard fans say how uneven this season’s been. Louie SHOULD get in…but it’s last 2 (IMO superior) seasons have been snubbed so maybe we should just give it up. It’s also the last season of The Office but…unless the very last episode is spectacular, I’m not seeing right now. And, for the fun of it, let’s not leave out New Girls, Parks and Rec, Episodes, and Enlightened, k?

DRAMA

Lead Actor: The likes of Jeff Daniels (The Newsroom) and Kevin Spacey (House of Cards) have been getting a good amount of buzz…but they’re new shows so…Also, The Newsroom is a hella polarizing. Just sayin’. Anyway, I think the magic three (Bryan Cranston, Jon Hamm, Damian Lewis) will pop up. Steve Buscemi is a little shaky just because Boardwalk Empire isn’t a “hot button” show anymore (at least, that’s what it seems like to me…BTW, I don’t follow the show so maybe I’m wrong), but I still think it’s a lock. I think those 4 definitely have a better chance than Hugh Bonneville and Timothy Olyphant. Michael C. Hall will probably get a nomination, but I wouldn’t consider him a lock persay.

Lead Actress: Once again, I’m not going to put Elizabeth Moss (Mad Men) on the list because there’s still that slight chance she’ll switch to supporting (thus giving Jessica Pare a better chance to prevail). Who knows what’s up with Moss or her character or how long we’ll follow her this season? So…she’s not a lock. Call me strange but, like Lead Actor, I think there are 4 locks: Julianna Margulies, Claire Danes, Glenn Close (if she could manage a nomination last year, she’ll probably get in again this year for the last season of Damages) and Michelle Dockery (Golden Globe and SAG nominee who definitely stood out this last season of Downton Abbey). With Kathy Bates out, there is pretty much one slot open. Will it go to Kerry Washington? Connie Britton? Jessica Pare? Mariska Hargitay?

Supporting Actor: The Supporting Drama Actor category is looser than a…something that’s loose. Yeah, Aaron Paul and Peter Dinklage are virtual locks. But outside that…it’s anyone’s game. I mean, let’s remember, last year…two guys from Downton Abbey got in. You never know what the voters are thinking. I do believe Mandy Pantinkin (Homeland) and Jonathon Banks (Breaking Bad) are probably the next up…but they’ve never been nominated before [for these roles] so…again…very loose.

Supporting Actress: The Good Wife is in an interesting position. For the last three years, they’ve been able to hold on to those 2 supporting actress slots. But this year their hurt by a couple things. One, is Archie Panjabi’s really bad story line during the 1st half of the season. And two, the show as a whole being snubbed series which signifies that voters may be letting go of the series slowly but surely. Will these otherwise amazing actresses be the next victims? Only time will tell. Right now, they’re not locks. Maggie Smith and Anna Gunn (Breaking Bad) definitely are. (Hayden Panettiere FYC).

Series: It’s strange. All 6 nominees from last year could get in this year. In fact, that’s probably what I would predict if I were making a real prediction right now. However, for the sake of me not being bold, I’ll say that the only locks right now are Mad Men, Breaking Bad, and last year’s winner Homeland (even though critics and fans alike were very critical of the latter half of the season). Downton Abbey could be the token period piece / network show this category needs but…I dunno, it’s not everyone’s favorite show. And, hey, The Good Wife could come back and take the spot from Game of Thrones or Boardwalk Empire. Maybe? Probably not. House of Cards, The Newsroom, The Americans, and even Nashville are also contenders. But, again, I think it’ll probably just be the same 6 as last year…

Cool. I got that out of my system. Did I leave out any BIG contenders? Am I underestimating the power of Malibu County? What about Glee? Is that still a thing? Would it be so totally awesome if Shameless got any love besides Joan Cusack? Sound off below.

2013
04/29
CATEGORY
awards
connie britton
drama
emmy awards
emmys
glee
nominations
predictions
reflection
snubbed
television
the good wife
tv
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Season 12 American Idol Results (Top 4 Becomes…) + another mini rant


american idol top 4 results

Yeah, let’s just get this out of the way. No one is eliminated. Shocker.

But, before we talk about all that…because I pay 25 dollars a year to have my own website domain, I think I have the right to put in my two cents over “producer manipulation.” This is something I’ve discussed at length before. I’ve made the point that this isn’t the first season that TPTB have manipulated results so their “favorite” will win. But, I also admitted that this year the manipulation has bugged me less because we ended up with a really strong top 5 (and we’ll finally break the WGWG chain).

If you’ve been reading my recaps, you know how much of a sweet spot I have for Amber. I think she’s a very talented “underdog”…and I think she’s had her fair share of moments (“She’s Leaving Home,” “Lately”). She was even my number 1 pick at one point before I slapped myself straight and turned my support towards Candice. Nonetheless, I always look forward to her performances. But…I have to agree that the pimping from the judges have gone too far. Last night, she received two “Standing ovations”…but she didn’t really deserve them. They were very good performances (well, at least “Power Of Love” was). But…the judges have not given her the same constructive criticism that the other 3 have gotten. And it worries me because 1.) it prevents Amber from truly growing. And 2.) because people start to turn on her.

After I finished my blog post last night, I was shocked at all the venom thrown towards Amber (directly and indirectly). And here I thought we were all on the same page. I thought we were excited over this top 4 and it wouldn’t matter who won at this point. But, after last night, it seems like people have made it clear that Amber doesn’t belong in this “top group” that’s already being inhabited by the other ladies. “She’s clearly the worst and she needs to go home immediately” is what I read. I’m not going to lie…it made me sad. I guess you never truly know how much you care about a contestant until it seems like you’re the only person who still likes the contestant.

With Candice and Kree getting the shaft last night, and Angie and Amber elevated, there’s a theory going around that the producers want the “skinny girls” to win and the big girls to go home because the skinny girls are potentially more marketable. These are valid theories and I’m not going to say they’re wrong…but I’m also not going to say their right. I just don’t fully believe it. And, yes, maybe this is my way of defending Amber…but I’m going to speak my mind anyway.

First of all, Angie was clearly the best last night. The ONLY performance that truly SHINED and excited me last night was Angie’s “Who You Are.” That was the only performance that deserved a standing O (and she didn’t even get a full one because Mariah only saves her standing O’s for Amber apparently). On top of that, she had a strong duet with Candice. Angie has gotten better and better in this competition…and, on top of her great vocals, does a good job of picking current songs that people under the age of 20 would recognize. Good for her. So let’s keep Angie out of it. She deserved the praise she got last night…and she’s certainly has gotten her fair share of criticism (remember “Shop Around”?)

Not let’s pretend that Amber doesn’t exist for a second…I stand by what I wrote about Kree last night. She was weak. She has a painfully consistent voice and always stays on key. I appreciate her calmness and her maturity throughout this competition. After the last episode, she even took her criticism well…something her fans could learn from. BUT…her first performance was confusing and weird and lacked any emotion. She was just strutting around the stage singing aimlessly to the audience. Her second performance was better…but sure as heck not memorable. Kree has gotten lazy these past few weeks and you wanna know why? Because the judges have been loving her and offering her nothing but praise the weeks prior . This was literally the first week where their comments were even a little critical. And the same goes for Candice.

Are we forgetting “Lovesong”? Are we forgetting what happened after that performance? How the judges literally jumped and started bowing to her like she was a god. How Mariah threw glitter in her face. How Keith Urban swallowed his pride and admitted he made a mistake by not putting her in his top 3 the week earlier? Even Amber hasn’t gotten that amount of cheers.

I just don’t understand how a week of lukewarm praise suddenly means that the producers are out to get Candice and Kree. Am I missing something here? I really do believe that this was the top 4 the producers wanted all along and that they would be fine with any of them winning (and that includes a Kree/Candice finale). So why the Amber pimping?

I think it really started when Amber was in the bottom three after Beatles week. I think the judges were afraid that Amber would be eliminated before one of the guys (particularly, gasp, Lazaro!) Amber, for some reason or other, was underrated by the public early on and I guess the judges were trying to make up for it. But now that we’re down to the top 4…I think the judges have forgotten how far Amber has gone and are still trying to give her praise when she doesn’t need it anymore. What she needs is a judge to tell to her choose better songs to perform.

Look…I agree that Amber is overpraised compared to the other girls…but I also believe that some of the angry reactions this week in regards to her and Kree are going overboard IMHO. And some of the gripes towards Amber has been uncalled for. I don’t don’t understand why people suddenly hate her…but I think those people need to think again. (And I say this as a big bellied 21 year old who would 100% LOVE a Candice/Kree finale…someone who has stood up for Kree since the beginning of the season and Candice since the previous season.)

Since I took so much time to write that mini rant, lemme just quickly go over some highlights from this results show and then, finally what I think of the actual result.

1. The top 4 sang “Girl on Fire” and it was good, but not extraordinary, performance. Another reason why I’ve disliked this anger during the last 24 hours is that it simply takes away from how great this top 4 is and how well they seem to get along. I liked when Kree gave Amber a small smile during the performance, silently saying “We got this, gurl!”

2. Stefano Langone performed his newest single “Yes to Love.” During season 10, Stefano was interesting character. I really liked him in the beginning of the season and saw him as a worthy finalist…but after his sleepy performance of “Hello,” my interest in him waned. Still, I do enjoy “I’m On A Roll” from time to time. This newest song is OK, but a little too generic (and not in fun way like his first single). But…he’s looking good. I liked the glasses during his video package. And, obviously, he still has a very nice voice.

3. My favorite moment of the night was definitely having Drake surprise Candice. She looked SO STOKED. It was great. The other girls were also nuts, particularly Amber and Angie. See? This is what happens when you sing songs from artists who are still famous. They can possibly take the time to visit you during the results show. So…this is the second time Candice has met an artist she covered on the show. But, yeah, the producers TOTALLY hate Candice.

Degrassi fans unite!

4. Ugh…Lee DeWyze…the one win that STILL irritates me. I’m sorry…but I’m not sorry. Anyway, he performed “Silving Lining”[s Playbook?]. Wait…so the judges stand for Stefano, but not this? Sometimes I feel like the judges should just be glued to their seats at all times. This is what’s causing all the problems in the world. Anyway…very “Mumford and Sons”…I loved it. I can’t believe I’m actually going to download a Lee DeWyze single. Help me, Sir. In all serious, I enjoyed that very much. Now, can we invite Crystal to perform next?

And so…finally we got to the results. Kree and Angie were in the top 2 (I’m guessing Angie got the most votes) while Candice and Amber were in the bottom 2 (I’m guessing Amber got the fewest). And, unsurprisingly, no one was sent home because, again, the producers can’t get enough of this top 4 and they felt like this was the best time to not have an elimination. I still think they should have done this last week when Janelle was still on just for the sake of female empowerment…but this was a nice moment for the 4 girls. Angie and Kree seemed genuinely happy. Amber looked relieved and composed (although a little p’ed off when Ryan announced that the votes from this week would be carried over to the votes next week) while Candice was a crying wreck by the end. So…that’s all I need to say about that.

Next week the top 4 perform “then and now.”If you ask me, we’ve had enough “then,” we need more “now.” If got through this long post, thank you so much for reading! I encourage you to, y’know, comment and rate. Man’s gotta eat.

’til next week!

2013
04/25
CATEGORY
american idol
fox
music
recap
reflection
review
television
tv
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