Today’s Idol headlines after the jump…
Sanjaya, Blake bring it home
Sanjaya Malakar and Blake Lewis, the two Seattle-based runners-up on “American Idol,” are coming home tonight. “American Idols Live,” the three-month, 56-stop tour, featuring the top 10 contestants from last season’s show, will be at the Tacoma Dome tonight and back on the road Saturday morning.
The two-hour show will highlight at least one appearance by each of the top 10 idols, including all-female and all-male ensembles. The show’s set list is the same for each stop on the tour, with the exception that all contestants will perform solos in his or her hometown….
Reuniting the ‘American Idol’ family
Ten finalists from FOX’s “American Idol” are reunited and touring the nation as part of the network’s concert series that will come to Salt Lake City next Tuesday.
The singers’ musical backgrounds are as varied as Sanjaya’s hairstyles, but when they’re all together it’s “like one big happy family,” says Haley Scarnato, who was voted off the TV show on April 11.
The program’s stressful nature, which thrust the young performers into the public eye beginning in January, was a bonding experience for the contestants, Scarnato says. All but one of the artists faced disappointment as they were each voted off the show week by week after receiving the fewest votes. Seventeen-year-old Jordin Sparks was the winning contestant…..
The many styles of Sanjaya
During the early rounds of this year’s “American Idol” competition, faithful viewers were not talking about who might get kicked off.
The real question each week was: “What will Sanjaya do with his hair?”
On one episode, 17-year-old Sanjaya Malakar arrived onstage with his brown curly locks tied into a frizzy Mohawk. On the next show, he greased back his hair like a gangster wannabe. Later, he swept his hair out of his face with a red cowboy bandanna.
“I kind of did it and then realized what a fool I looked like afterward,” Sanjaya admitted during a recent telephone interview from his home in Federal Way, Wash. But wearing those distinctive coiffures with confidence won over million of fans….
How to become an Idol finalist
Vocal cords are warming up as the nation’s Mariah and Stevie wannabes prepare to swarm seven American Idol audition sites. The first trials take place Monday in San Diego, nearly six months before Season 7 begins.
Last year, 103,000 hopefuls tried out, but only a handful heard the golden phrase “You’re going to Hollywood!” USA TODAY asks seven of last season’s top 10 finalists to recall their auditions and offer advice to new entrants….
S.H. Jamboree adds artists
SWEET HOME n American Idol contender Bucky Covington and country artist Hal Ketchum have been added to the Oregon Jamboree’s Saturday lineup of performers, according to event manager Peter LaPonte…..
@genda
…SATURDAY When the cast of season 5 of “American Idol” performed at the Rose Garden arena last summer, most (aside from Elvis impersonator Taylor Hicks) proved their worth. This summer’s tour includes power-belters Melinda Doolittle and winner Jordin Sparks. And, of course, Sanjaya Malakar, whose hair tends to reach higher than his voice….
Will these `Idols’ last?
SEASON SIX STARS SHOW THEIR STUFF IN S.J. CONCERT
After watching the “American Idols Live!” tour Tuesday at HP Pavilion in San Jose, it’s no clearer whether any contestant from Season Six has true star potential….
Artist portrays urban life at Fort Lauderdale exhibit
…He paints an array of Afrocentric murals, portraits and multidimensional urban scenes. Some include faces from contemporary pop culture such as American Idol winner Fantasia Barrino, hip-hop star 50 Cent and actor William H. Macy…
‘Idol’ finalist Daughtry brings band to Evansville
American Idol finalist Chris Daughtry brings his band, DAUGHTRY, and songs from their self-titled double-platinum debut album to The Centre in Evansville, Ind., on Sept. 3….
Yamin co-chairs diabetes campaign, George Jones in town and more
Along with being a pop star and “American Idol” finalist, Elliott Yamin has a new title to tack onto his résumé — co-chairman of a diabetes campaign.
Former Richmonder Yamin will head to Washington on Wednesday to champion the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s “Promise to Remember Me” campaign and to ask Rep. Eric I. Cantor, R-7th, to support the renewal of the Special Diabetes Program….
Concert Review: Nickelback
Saddledome, Calgary - July 26, 2007
…Vancouver-based State of Shock and Missouri’s Puddle Of Mudd started the whole thing off with well-received short sets before former American Idol-turned-rock-star Chris Daughtry took the stage.
The bald, buff singer was greeted by high-pitched screams, normally reserved for well-marketed boy bands and George Clooney.
He seemed to revel in the attention, playing the part of a modern-day heartthrob to a tee with his over-sexed slow stage moves and gradual striptease down to a tank top.
Much like Nickelback, Daughtry knows how to play to the masses….
See fast, furious bull riding at Chris Shivers Invitational
…A post-event concert called the Bull Riding Bash, starring American Idol finalist Lindsey Cardinale of Ponchatoula, La., will add to the excitement…
‘Idol’s’ Kellie Pickler performs in Richmond
Playful Pickler offers smooth sound
The girl Simon Cowell called a “naughty little minx” is really more of a kitten. An adorable kitten who is an erratic singer, but a darling presence…….
Josh Gracin lights up Adams County Fairfest
It was another big night at the Adams County Fair and former American Idol runner up Josh Gracin took the stage. Since his debut on American Idol Gracin has had a number of country hits…….
AV Voice Changer Software Version 6.0 and American Idol Parody Voices
In addition to the Background Effects feature that has just been added into their latest Voice Changer Software version, AVnex has also focused on other special features of their products - the Parody Voice Maker and Parody Voice Mixer, which allow customers to mimic anyone’s voice. According to Helen Le, Sales and Marketing Manager, their ongoing plan is expanding the add-on library so that customers can freely download the packages to improve the software. ‘We have just uploaded a series of parody voice packages of many famous American Idol contestants such as Kelly Clarkson, Clay Aiken, Justin Guarini, etc.,” said Helen…….
July 27: Gossip! Weekly Rag Mag Wrap-Up!
…Did you ever notice that stars who are carrying around a few extra pounds always say they’re really comfortable in their own skin, then go out and lose a ton of weight?
Look for “American Idol” winner Jordin Sparks to wear a size 4 any day now. Oh, and her “touring schedule” will be he reason for the “slim down.”…
Chicagoan Jim Verraros to Sign Autographs on Saturday
First Season American Idol Finalist Jim Verraros is reprising his starring role of Kyle in the sequel Eating Out 2: Sloppy Seconds now available on DVD through Artiztical Entertainment. Verraros, who delighted audiences as the endearingly awkward underdog, returns in the comedy that has been making HUGE buzz across the country.
At 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 28, Verraros will join gay film icon Mink Stole and other cast members at Borders Lakeview Store, 2817 North Clark Street . The cast will be signing autographs and promoting the film…….
What’s new in entertainment
…Mandisa, True Beauty”: The “American Idol” finalist makes her album debut. Released by Sparrow Records. In stores July 31…
`Idol’ reject from Alabama headed to federal prison
A south Alabama man who earned notoriety for his “American Idol” rejection and run-ins with the law was sentenced Thursday to nearly four year in prison.
Mobile Federal Judge William Steele ordered 25-year-old Leroy Wells of Grand Bay to serve three years and 10 months for being a convicted felon in possession of a pistol….
Taylor Hicks: Soul Man
American Idol winner to stop in San Marcos to promote book
The origins of Taylor Hicks’ musical career date back much further than onstage at the Kodak Theatre in L.A., awaiting feedback from Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell….
Plain White T’s and Fergie lead singles chart
…The physical tally is the most for that format since “American Idol” veteran Taylor Hicks moved 190,000 units of “Do I Make You Proud” in late June 2006. The “High School Musical 2″ album hits stores August 14, and the movie premieres three days later on the Disney Channel…
Kelly Clarkson Gets the Message, Returns to Pop
Kelly Clarkson gets the picture, finally. There was no bucking the system, and no going against Clive Davis. Sources tell me that she has agreed, through her wise new manager Narvel Blackstock, to make a pop album for release in 2008 with songs selected by Davis and his team…
Chokeout a finalist for band competition
Local metal band Chokeout is one of five finalists in an online vote that will determine who represents the Tri-Cities in “The Search for the Next Great American Band,” a new musical competition on Fox from the producers of “American Idol.” …
Parade Magazine’s Pop Culture Survey
…9.. Show viewers were most sad to see go:
Many television shows recently aired their series finales or went on hiatus until next season, but viewers were most sad to see The King of Queens leave the small screen (26%). No one will fugettabout THE SOPRANOS, in second place with 24%. The Gilmore Girls (19%) came in third. Fifteen percent of respondents were most sad to see American Idol go on hiatus, wishing instead that it would go on all year long. Ten percent will miss The O.C., while 6% were most sad to see Veronica Mars head out of the universe.
Heart to heart with Herman
Noone will perform hits with orchestra
…You were featured on “American Idol” in March as a mentor for the male finalists. Who were your favorites?…….
Related Posts
If Jordin doesn’t sign, then nobody signs with BMG; correct? but they can sign with an indy or another label; correct?
Well Nevada & Rightsaid - this could be because of her dad, like I wrote earlier. He’s in the contract knowing business and if he’s the co-manager, maybe he’s the one holding things up….it’s just a matter of time that the truth will come out.
MJ - was I finger-pointing? I didn’t know that i was.
I will clarify: questioning a fellow poster’s motives, or making a personal judgement on their opinion, is against the guidelines here. If you have any questions about my guidelines, drop me a line and we can discuss it.
From The Financial Times, June 1, 2007:
Simon Fuller, the creator of the Spice Girls, and Robert Sillerman, the billionaire entertainment mogul, have launched a $1.3bn management buy-out of CKX, the company that owns the rights to the American Idol television programme.
Mr Sillerman is the chairman and chief executive of CKX, which also owns commercial rights to the names, images and likenesses of Elvis Presley and Muhammad Ali. The group bought 19 Entertainment, which was founded by Mr Fuller, three years ago for £100m.
And from Reuters, June 1, 2007:
“American Idol” owner agrees to CEO-led buyout
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) – CKX Inc., the owner of rights to the Elvis Presley and Muhammad Ali names and the “American Idol” television show, said it would be taken private in a $1.33 billion buyout led by its chief executive.
So Nevada, do you think all this M&A and stuff might be affecting the contracts? Maybe BMG isn’t in a negotiating position with 19E? Also, I was at ew popwatch and good news on Jennifer Hudson. Her CD is due this fall and they’re hush-hush about it. Clive is definitely managing her music career….she’s got Will Smith on one side with the acting and Clive on the other with the music…she can’t lose can she?
Blake is not the Season 6 winner. I have never seen any source that indicates Sony is obligated to offer a contract to the runner-up. As such, I am assuming that they do not have to attempt to sign Blake. Your opinion may differ. I have no idea whether or not Sony has approached Blake. The fact that they have signed a runner-up in some prior seasons may not have any bearing this year.
My comments and opinion were about Jordin only, and reflect my understanding of the AI winner’s “prize”.
Well I just think it’s bizarre that we’ve heard nothinng - not a peep!!! I remember this time last year I was furious that there was no signing news for Elliott but Picker had announced on one of the talk shows that she had just been signed.
Pickler also stated that she was on tour w/ idol and in the studio recording same time.
I don’t have a good feeling for this group. Chris Sligh is the ONLY one with a label, but he was recording and releasing his songs online anyway…but, he’s the ONLY one who has a label. Amazing.
Sligh has a label? Who?
http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/reviews/2007/takeachance.html
Wikipedia:
Because of AI rules, Sligh was forced to leave the band, but on the album, Take a Chance on Something Beautiful, released on March 13, 2007, Sligh sings lead vocals and plays guitar, bass, and piano. He rejoined after being voted off American Idol. The band signed with record label Brash Music in May 2007. Take A Chance on Something Beautiful was re-released July 10th on their label Brash Music.
So is Sligh recording Christian music? That’s a definite?
Finally we are talking about Season 6!
I just want to join in the fun, but first..
Are they signed yet?
Are they signed yet?
Are they signed yet?
Are they signed yet?
Are they signed yet?
……
yea, trust me, you should do this. MJ is an extremely patient and kind blogmistress. She’ll give you the benefit of the doubt more times than you deserve. And when you run over the guidelines like a freight train and make her job that much more difficult - whatever punishment you may receive will be miniscule compared to the guilt you will feel for giving a kind and supportive friend a really bad day.
Um, not that I would know or anything. I’m just speculating here.
Finger pointing is the original digital communication.
Is that directed at Moi? I still don’t understand what I did…and if I knew MJ’s email I would send her a note.
From USAtoday blog: (This is getting confusing!)
After the tour, what’s next for the Idols?
Edna Gundersen visited the Idols during their L.A. tour stop and managed to corner seven of the 10 to chat with them about their future plans. (Sorry, Sanjaya fans, he elected not to participate.) Here’s what they had to say:
Jordin: “I’ve recorded a couple songs already. While we’re touring, I will be flying in and out to record wherever there is a studio. Then once the tour is over, I’ll be hitting the studio really, really hard to get it out before Thanksgiving. I’m pretty sure it will be very radio-friendly, top 40 stuff, kind of Kelly Clarkson’s pop edge meets Beyonce meets Carrie Underwood. I love country and pop and rock. I want to do it all.”
Blake: “I had a meeting with 19 and presented a concept of what I wanted to do and they said, ‘Cool, let’s do it.’ I have seven songs already recorded. I’m writing a lot. I think I’ve had the most fun out of any contestant who’s been on the show.”
Melinda: “My first plan it to get some sleep. I’m keeping my options open and letting God take over. I’m doing some writing and I hope to get a chance to record. I am an old-school girl at heart. I want to get the old school to team up with the new school and really tell life stories about love, God and so many other parts of myself and then make if funky, bluesy, soulsy.”
Chris Richardson: “I’m writing for the other Idols. There’s nothing definite as to what’s going to happen. I’ve been writing for Jordin and for Blake and Phil. It’s three very different albums. That’s what’s so fun (and) challenging for me. Phil’s doing country. Blake’s doing his ’80s pop, Jordin’s doing the modern rock and soul. I’m doing a rock and soul mixture too. It’s my own signature. We need stuff that stands out. I was always compared to Justin the whole season. Now that I’m off the show, I have to show people I’m not going to make the same album he did. I’m more Maroon 5. I love live instrumentation.”
Phil: “I’m moving to Nashville this fall. My term with the Navy is almost up. I have about a week left after my leave period expires. The Navy’s been unbelievable in getting behind this the whole season. I’m singing at the Navy’s birthday celebration in October.
“I’m going to record a country record. I’m not signed. We’re not allowed to sign until our (Idol) contract expires, but we’re free to talk, and I’ve got some different offers on the table that I’ll be looking at and considering. Most of us have already started projects.”
Haley: “I want to make a country record, so I’m going to go shopping in Nashville. No songs yet. I try to concentrate on one thing at a time.”
Gina: “I actually have a demo made. Hopefully I can get into a studio in Chicago and polish it. It’s kind of Evanescence meets Pink, (a) little funky rock. I didn’t write it. My friends got together and brainstormed.”
Chris Sligh: “At the end of August, I’m going to sign with a management company. I was lucky in that my band had a couple or recordings out, so that record labels could see what I could do. I actually had a label endorse me before the show, and the show amped it up a little bit. So I’m lucky to have multiple labels after me right now. I’ll figure out which one is the best for me and hopefully get a record out in January or February. It’s going to be a pop/rock record with some danceable stuff, probably like The Killers meets U2 meets Switchfoot, an interesting hybrid. Very melodic rock. I’ve got what people describe as a soulful voice and hopefully I can play on that.”
(note to self: stop hogging)
Jordin doesn’t say she has a record contract, she says “she’s recording” so that can mean anything….but she doesn’t say nor do the others say that they have a contract (exc Chris)
Interesting interview from USAToday. I can’t help but think that both Jordin and Blake already have deals because they keep talking about finishing their album before Thanksgiving. If there was any shopping of Jordin it was probably within the different divisions like previously talked about. I have a hard time believing that she won’t be signed by RCA, Avista, or one of the other usual AI labels. Blake made it sound like he could be with 19R but who knows?
Katharine McPhee on Leno was incredible.
I can’t figure those little interviews out. I’ll be really shocked if Jordin doesn’t end up signed with BMG. Perhaps they just had trouble placing her with a certain label at first? Why is 19 doing anything regarding a CD with Blake? I know virtually nothing about the industry but if Blake had a deal set I doubt he would be taking his own pictures for a cover and naming his own CD. Are 19 calling the shots here and releasing it? All the others sound like stuff is up in the air.
Where are you guys seeing those interviews? I can only find where this year’s Idols give advice for next year’s auditioners.
Nevermind. I found it. For some reason it’s dated 7/20. I think they messed up.
http://blogs.usatoday.com/idolchatter/2007/07/after-the-tour-.html#uslPageReturn
Reminder:
Please post a link to all articles posted here, and don’t post the entire article. Thanks. Here is my email mjsbigblog@gmail.com.
incredibly insipid and annoying.
LOL. That comment got me.
*** on Leno:
ROFLMAO
She dragged the damn mic stand around with her…even threw it to the floor…and gave it a little kick LMAO. She has no clue how to perform and she sure as heck can not sing any of her CD songs live. She’d best stick to posing for magazine covers–on her back, legs stuck up in the air. She does that well.
*** phone, Hef is on the line.
Tick Tock McMee, your 15 minutes is about up.
That should read….
Tick, Tock McMee. Your 15 minutes ARE about up.
I doubt they would create an “indie” label like Hickory for Jordin, because as the winner of AI she’s entitled to a major label contract.
Clive - the man we love to hate, hee!
I think there are a lot of good perspectives on this, but what happens behind the scenes is his business. There are two sides to every story. To the extent that someone leaked details of his alleged dissatisfaction with Kelly’s album and her reaction to it, may be fuel for the fandom but most people don’t know about it.
On the other hand, his presentation in the middle of the American Idol finale this season was all kinds of WRONG, in my opinion. It was petty, a total buzzkill and distasteful - like he dumped a turd in the punchbowl.