OK, it’s time for a bold prediction.
There have been some truly gifted competitors in the race this year, but in order to win, a contestant needs a clear identity and consistent performances. David Cook has both. He caught the attention of the judges and the Idol audience with a rocked-out version of “Hello” Top 16 week. Subsequently, he’s built a reputation as the clever rocker, navigating this year’s narrow themes without sacrificing his identity. The smart move–singing “Music of the Night” in a straight-up musical theater style surely netted some votes from the non-rock contingent. Way to expand the fan base, Cookie! At this point, I think he’s garnered a broad appeal that will ensure he remains the last idol standing.
OK, I’m prepared for my arse-kicking! Heh.
Meanwhile–we’re still tracking the Final Three spoilers. Check it out. If you know something we don’t, tell us in comments.
Song choices? Can I say I hate “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” with a liquid white-hot intensity? But I won’t rule out the possibility that David Cook can change my mind. It’s Simon Cowell’s choice, picked out of the very short list of songs he’s ever even heard of. I’ve got no problems with the Collective Soul tune “The World I Know” for Cookie. He chose it, and I expect he’ll do a fine job.
Randy Jackson picked Alicia Keys “If I Ain’t Got You” for Syesha Mercado. She could impress if she’ doesn’t over sing it, but I’m not holding my breath. She’s already competed with this song–on the failed ABC TV show, “The One”.
David Archuleta was given Billy Joel’s “And So It Goes” by Paula Abdul. Seriously, a person needs to have experienced a substantial amount of heartbreak to sell this song. I don’t think anyone under 30 should even attempt it. I don’t have high hopes for this one. Dan Fogelberg’s drippy “Longer” chosen by the Idol producers, is right up his alley. More intriguing is David’s personal choice, “With You”. He’ll either sink or swim with this ultra-current hit from the ultra hot Chris Brown. It could be the surprise of the night…
ETA: Update on Syesha Mercado. Her personal choice is “Fever” by Peggy Lee. No screaming or extraneous runs required! And I hope she doesn’t add any. This could go really well for her. Her producer’s choice is “Hit Me Up” by Gia Farrell, from the Happy Feet soundtrack. This is Syesha’s chance to prove that she’s got the potential to be a viable commercial artist. Can she do it? We’ll see…
ETAA: David Cook isn’t singing “Collective Soul”. Instead, he’s performing “Dare You to Move” by Switchfoot. Being that I’m not up on the God rock, I don’t have an opinion ready on this one. His Producer’s choice is “I Don’t Want to Miss A Thing” by Aerosmith, written by that well-known supplier of Idol crud, Diane Warren. SOB. I have nothing more to say.
