I still have yet to miss an episode of the 8 seasons of American Idol. I'm interested in every aspect from the contestants' talent all the way down to analyzing the marketability of each singer. I even listen to the judges' criticisms to figure out why they say what they're saying, and if they expect a certain response to their words.
I was impressed with this years' talent, agreeing that it was the most gifted season to date. Up to just a couple weeks ago I even thought it was obvious who was the most talented 5 of the Top 10. American seemed to have gotten it correct (in my opinion). I also think it goes without saying that these last 5 have the potential to walk away at any point and have a successful career as an artist.
But once it came down to these final 5 talents it became anybody's game. The teenie-boppers who cast multiple votes each week would probably be the determining factor to get someone bumped off of the show every Tuesday night with a small margin. Matt G was the first to depart the 5, and then last night it was Allison I. Again, my opinion says American got it right to leave these final 3 to battle it out.
1. You've got the gospel/motown-esque Danny Gokey who has shown himself to be very versatile with the exception of ROCK week. He seems to be comfortable in his skin, and in the performing spotlight. He is likable.
2. Then there's the emo(ish) Adam Lambert who comes off as experienced on the stage. With a broadway/musical style he performs each week as an edgy personality. He has a strong, accurate voice but tends to be a bit shreak-y at times. He has a strong following but more of a favorite to a limited crowd.
3. Thirdly comes Kris Allen, who often gives off a boy-ish grin and is seen as lacking confidence by Simon Cowell. He has a style different from the other two and seems like he would be likable to a much broader audience – old and young. In my opinion he has grown each week and emerged as a creative artist as well as a consistent voice.
My thoughts on how Season 8 should end:
Adam should go home this next week. He had a great run and will land a record deal as well as go on to perform more in live venues than recording studios.
Danny should be the runner up of Season 8. While he has been my favorite over the majority of the weeks, he has become less original while remaining consistent. Danny will be very successful in his obvious genre and maybe beyond. He's great.
But it is Kris who shows the most potential to me. He seems to be the most marketable, and probably has so many more things to grow into with being a singer/artist. He has proven himself to be a talented arranger while also being a decent instrumentalist. He will probably have a larger instant fan base, while developing as an artist over the next several years will only grow his listeners. Plus the dude can just flat out saaaang.
Boudreaux……out
