The Final Three Sing Three Songs Each-Or As Chris Daughtry Would Put It: &%#@! American %$!& Idol
Clive Davis’ Picks
Elliott (Open Arms)-I’ve never been a fan of Journey’s though I will give respect to Steve Perry’s awesome voice. I thought vocally that Elliott was strong throughout this song, but Simon was right. He does need to loosen up. Where was the Elliott of last week? Are nerves getting to him?
Kat (I Believe I Can Fly)-Okay, at least she wasn’t singing, “Trapped in the Closet.” Due to my R. Kelly hate, I was prepared to despise Kat’s performance. I didn’t think it was too bad, but she got way too screechy at the end. I think she’s so much better when she’s subtle, but according to today’s music, glory notes and melisma are where it’s at. And it sucks. I did giggle when she claimed, “I didn’t pick it.” I didn’t see it so much as bitchiness as frustration.
Taylor (Dancing in the Dark)-Perfection. I love him so much. Original recipe Taylor was having fun so I was having fun. It was a bit cheesy when he did the gun holster thing. I adored the high energy and his vocals were top notch. The only thing that would have made it better is if Taylor danced with me instead of Paula.
Judges’ Picks
Elliott (What You Won’t Do For Love)-A wonderfully smooth and romantic R & B song that is perfect for Elliott’s voice. Elliott seemed a bit more at ease than he did with his first song. Old school R & B is what Elliott should be singing.
Kat (Somewhere Over the Rainbow)-Lovely acapella introduction. Kat finally showed some subtlety (except for the glory note at the end). I thought she did a splendid job, but do not smile a pageant smile. This song requires some wistfulness. And I was touched when I saw McPhather McPhee puddling up.
Taylor (You Are So Beautiful)-Early in the competition, when Taylor seemed to be all spazziness, woohs, and “Soul Patrol”, I had an inkling that there was a more tender, introspective, and vulnerable side to him. This performance proved me right. I was so unbelievably touched.
Contestants’ Picks
Elliott (I Believe to My Soul)-Far better than his first performance. Looked more comfortable on stage. I didn’t like Simon’s “your mom is going to be proud of you.” So condescending.
Kat (I Ain’t Got Nothin’ But the Blues)-First off. I want her boots!!!!! She showed a theatrical side that I like, but I don’t think she should smile throughout a song about having nothin’ but the blues. Sadly, she’s a product of Stage Mom McPhee.
Taylor (Try A Little Tenderness)-I was so hoping Taylor would sing this song. Paula may have waited the whole season for Taylor to sing this song, but I’ve waited my whole life (yes, I know I haven’t known Taylor my whole life. Shut Up). Other than a weird spazzing out at the end, I was electrified by his performance.
I’ve always watched AI as a fun time waster and guilty pleasure, but this season I am completely emotionally invested in this show and it scares the hell out of me. I might even seek therapy once the show is over. Snerk.
I truly like all of the remaining contestants. I think they are very talented and I’ve enjoyed many of their performances. I also like them as people. I have to keep reminding myself that these are human beings up there with the same frailties, foibles, and insecurities that many of us have. Yet, we don’t have the media glare and huge spotlight on us every single day. Yes, I’m sure Taylor, Elliott, and Kat had some inkling what they were getting into, but once you’re in it, it must be very intense and mind-blowing. I can’t even fathom it.
I’ve never gotten an entitled Princess vibe from Kat. I see her as slightly neurotic young woman with some self-esteem issues who is trying to find herself after being coached by Mama McPhee for so many years. Then there is sweet Elliott who a year ago was a shy, directionless young man with a host of health problems whose family had little idea that he could sing. And Taylor…yes, I can understand why some people might find him shouting “Soul Patrol” can be irritating to some people, but I think he’s just very grateful for the support. This was a guy who was thinking of packing it in until his brother encouraged him to try out for AI. Yes, AI can be cheesy, but I’m glad that it introduced me to Taylor.
I want all of them to do well in their careers. They may end up being more niche artists, but considering that Clear Channel sludge that makes the pop charts top 40, this might not be such a bad thing
for me. She totally over sang them. I think she should be the one to go.
but she really "had a moment" and nailed SOTR. 
I figured Taylor was a shoo in and I want Kat out 
That R Kelly song she did was AWFUL. I like her voice and I'll say for the umpteenth time that she's beautiful-but she is not consistent at all and her faces at the judges' critiques really bug me. I don't think she handles criticism well.
I can only imagine the fans on the Bruce web sites flipping out over it 
and of course cheating, reading the AI site for the spoiler. 
