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Access Atlanta > American Idol Buzz > Archives > 2006 > July
July 2006
8/1: Worst Idol performances of all time
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
AOL has ranked the top 20 worst Idol performances ever here
This brings back a ton of memories. Naturally, not good ones on the most part.
Does anybody recall Nikki McKibbin’s “Always Something There to Remind Me” season one (ranked No. 20)? I think I’ve purposely blocked it out.
Remember No. 14 Jon Peter Lewis’ goofy “A Little Less Conversation” from season three? I kind of liked that one for pure camp.
Or local gal Janay Castine’s painful No. 3 “Hit ‘Em Up Style” from season four?
And No. 1? John Stevens’ awful rendition of “Crocodile Rock” from season three.
Some of these are pretty obscure. For instance, I have zero memory of season two’s Juanita Barber and her rendition of “What About the Children,” which landed at No. 2.
8/1: Elliott photo with Prez
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
You may have noticed the official AP shot of the Idols with Pres. Bush last Friday was missing Elliott Yamin. He overslept and got there late. On whitehouse.gov, they have a shot of Elliott arriving for a late photo op. with the prez:
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7/31: Fantasia’s film
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I received an advance copy of the biopic about Fantasia Barrino “Life is Not a Fairy Tale,” starring Fantasia and directed by Debbie Allen. It airs on the Lifetime Channel August 19. It’s actually not bad and Fantasia plays herself well. The first 2/3 of the film is reasonably engaging, showing her family’s musical roots and her drift away from school, the rape and a bad boyfriend (who happens to be named Rodney and impregnates her). She has no education, can barely read and can’t get a job. Then “Idol” comes along. She tries out in Atlanta. There’s a scene shot where the Superdome masquerades as the Georgia Dome. (those two monstrosities look very very similar.) She can’t get back in the building until a sympathetic guard gives her a chance. She is the last person to go before Simon, Randy and Paula in Atlanta. We know what happens from there.
They couldn’t procure any of the “Idol” main players to be in the film so they only use stock footage from the show. That’s why the last half hour is sort of choppy and lacks a true emotional climax. The publicist said logistically, they were shooting in Louisiana and couldn’t get Ryan, the producers, the other contestants or Simon there to make cameos. I know the financial incentives to shoot in Louisana are high and the publicist said crews do films there all the time. That makes it financially feasible for Lifetime, which shoots 60 films a year, most of them for less than $5 million. If they had more money, surely they could have flown Fantasia to Hollywood and shot scenes there but obviously that didn’t happen.
The only minor revelation is that according to Fantasia, producers asked her if she wanted to leave the show after the negative publicity of her single motherhood came out. Naturally, she said no. Ken Warwick, co-executive producer for “Idol,” told the New York Post that this is “complete fabrication.” The publicist for the movie said there was no real “pressure” placed on her, that it was more of a sympathetic, supportive thing.
Fantasia is not doing print interviews after the appearance before TV critics a couple weeks ago but she will be making the TV talk show circuit in a couple of weeks.
7/29: Kat comes on tour
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
According to mj’s blog, Kat in her first appearance on the tour sang “Black Horse & the Cherry Tree” and “Over the Rainbow,” before joining everybody in the finale “Living in America” in D.C.
MJ said Kat sounded a bit rough, especially with “Over the Rainbow” but she’s still trying to get in gear. Hopefully by the time she hits Gwinnett, she’ll sound a bit better.
She also provides some video from the concert. It’s pretty good quality.
7/29:Tickets available for 8/3 concert
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The August 3 “Idols Live!” concert at the Arena at Gwinnett has been technically sold out for ages but as the days approach, the organizers often open up seats that had previously been reserved. Often, these seats are really really good. Last year, I got tickets by the side of the stage a few days before the actual concert. I just checked Saturday morning at 8:35 a.m. to see if that has happened again. And it has! There were seats in the 106 section, J, that were available on ticketmaster.com. That is better than the seat I bought more or less at cost off eBay. Makes me wish I had waited again! So if you want good tickets to the concert at face value, check now!
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7/28: Bush meets Idols
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
(This photo by Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP)
Here’s a story about the meet and greet between the Idol finalists and the president.
Elliott Yamin got there late — he overslept, which may be why he’s not in the photo above.
“We gave him some presents,” Idol’s Ace Young tells PEOPLE. “On behalf of Taylor winning, we gave him a harmonica that said American Idol on it that he attempted to play. He didn’t sound bad! And Taylor gave him a Soul Patrol T-shirt and he said it’ll be his new jogging shirt. And I gave him an Ace beanie. He said it’s a little too hot for the beanie, but he’ll save it for winter.”
“Before we walked in,” Young says, “everyone was asking who voted for him. … A majority (of us) didn’t. But when we walked out, every single person said, ‘Wow, what a great guy!’ It felt like we were just hanging out with him.’ â€?
7/28: Yamin interview
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Richmond Times Dispatch did a hometown interview with Elliott Yamin.
Here’s an excerpt:
Q. Taylor, Chris, Kellie and Katharine all have signed with 19 Recordings, and it’s rumored Bucky has a Nashville contract pending. Is it true non-“American Idol” contracts can be announced after August 24?
A. I’m not sure when they can be announced, but I’m on the verge of doing that as well. Because it’s not going to be with 19, I’m not sure … and I’m not too worried about it.
People keep asking me, when are you gonna sign? There’s no particular reason; we’re just trying to do it right. Right now, I’m on tour. My business team and managers and everybody are working on that on the outside for me. I’m in no hurry. You’ve kind of gotta take it one step at a time.
I’m definitely going to have something to announce.
7/27: Kat on the View
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I was working and didn’t have a chance to catch Kat on “The View” today (I have it DVRed at home). Anybody catch it? How does she sound?
7/26: Kat gets endorsement
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Kat is back in action. She had a press conference today announcing an endorsement deal for Sexy Hair Products. USA Today nabbed her for an interview.
Here’s an excerpt:
She’s co-hosting ABC’s The View Thursday, but says she’s not jittery about it. “Once you come off of Idol, at least for me, you’re never as nervous as you were,” she says.
And when she rejoins the Idol tour in Pittsburgh tomorrow, she’ll be taking it easy. “I just have to sing easily so I can get through the tour,” she says. Katharine is under orders from her doctor to get plenty of sleep and guzzle gallons of water.
When the tour is done on Sept. 24 in Wilkes-Barre, PA, Katharine will record her album. “I’ve been writing and have been meeting with writers and producers,” she says. “We’re envisioning a soulful pop kind of album.”
7/25: Huff in concert 8/9
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
George Huff from season three, who is now a gospel guy, will be joining the Blind Boys of Alabama at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens August 9.
NEWS RELEASE: MEDIA CONTACT: July 25, 2006 Geri Laufer glaufer@atlantabotanicalgarden.org
Former AMERICAN IDOL Alumnus George Huff Opens for The Blind Boys of Alabama August 9th at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
ATLANTA - The fifth concert of the season at the SunTrust Concerts in the Garden features The Blind Boys of Alabama on August 9th at 8 p.m. The spirit and energy of pure soul gospel music for over 60 years, the Blind Boys of Alabama are in the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. First formed at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind in 1939, this gospel music group contains a number of the original members who are still performing. Releases by the group in recent years have been favorites at the Grammy Awards—they have won the Grammy Award for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album every year since 2002. The Blind Boys of Alabama were inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2002.
Special Guest George Huff won the rapturous approval of millions on American Idol‘s third season, and ended the season among the top five, with a song on the winning CD of top contestants and a 50-city tour. His national debut album, Miracles, blends smooth, mid-tempo grooves and soulful ballads with retro-soul sound into an enduring masterpiece, while acknowledging the unfathomably vast and deeply intimate aspects of the Almighty.
At SunTrust Concerts in the Garden music fills the air, flowers add their fragrance and green pond bullfrogs chime this summer. Voted “Best Outdoor Concert Series� in 2005 by Atlanta Magazine, this is Atlanta’s most intimate outdoor musical event. Relax and enjoy the summer evening concerts on a blanket on the Great Lawn as these nationally acclaimed artists take the stage with the stunning Fuqua Conservatory and dramatic Atlanta skyline as their backdrop.
Gates open at 7 PM, and the show starts at 8 PM. All concerts are rain or shine. Tickets are on sale to the general public at the Atlanta Botanical Garden Gift Shop, at Ticketmaster outlets, on line at www.ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone at 404-249-6400.
Tickets for all shows are $33, with a 10% discount for Atlanta Botanical Garden members on individual tickets. Phone and online orders are subject to processing fees and applicable service charges. There are no fees applied to tickets purchased at the Garden Gift Shop.
Although outside food and beverages are not allowed in the Garden, a great selection of premium wine, beer and soft drinks will be available for purchase during each show, and delicious picnic fare from Sun In My Belly Catering (appetizers, salads, sandwiches, entrees and desserts) will be available for pre-order to enhance the concert experience. A limited menu will be available for walk-up purchase at the show, so pre-ordering is strongly recommended. Download the complete concert menu and pre-order form at atlantabotanicalgarden.org.
After The Blind Boys of Alabama and George Huff concert, one spectacular show remains in the SunTrust Concerts in the Garden series:
7/25: Kat back on tour Thursday?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Kat’s mom Peisha posted on the www.katharinefans.com fan site forum. She said her daughter has finally been given clearance to go on tour with the other Idols in Pittsburgh Thursday and may even end up on the View that morning. We’ll see.
Here’s the note:
07/25/2006 6:20 AM Alert Dear Katharine fans,
To all you Katpackers and McPhans, ALL OF YOU, that have been so loyal and giving to Katharine throughout this difficult time. KATHARINE FINALLY HAS BEEN RELEASED FROM HER DOCTOR to JOIN THE TOUR. I know this has been hard for everyone to understand but as a professional voice coach I can tell you sometimes the ONLY way for a singer to recover is TOTAL VOCAL REST. Katharine has not spoken for almost a month. And now is time for celebration and thanks for all the prayers and good wishes for her. IT HAS WORKED and I am very thankful to realize that sometimes in life, we just need to take time and heal. Katharine was very sad (to say the least) that she missed singing for any of you at the concerts, but sometimes you have to give up things in order to heal.
She will be taping the new Dr. Keith Ablow show in NYC on Wed. and the View on Thursday and joining the tour that night. I think you are the greatest fans in the world and I KNOW that Katharine feels that way. YOU have hung in there with her through thick and thin. I will always be grateful to each and every one of you for your constant love. I know she will continue to bless you with beautiful songs and heartfelt emotion. YOU have helped her to achieve the DREAM she has had since a child and she is young and will continue to give to you.
I extend to you all much love and may your days be filled with joy and music.
All my love, Momma Peisha)
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7/24: Idol not going to Thursdays
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
From my buddy Jill Vejnoska at the Television Critics Association shindig in Pasadena, Calif.:
Tempting as the idea is, there are no plans to move “American Idol� to Thursdays, Fox entertainment president Peter Liguori said.
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,� Liguori said after a press conference. “I think we’re doing pretty well on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Thursday is the most valuable night on television to the broadcast networks, which charge their highest ad rates then. A few years ago, CBS used the combination of “Survivorâ€? and especially “CSIâ€? to wrest the Thursday ratings crown away from perennial champ NBC. This fall, ABC is going right at CBS’s heart by moving the super-hot “Grey’s Anatomyâ€? directly opposite “CSI.”
So why not join in the “fun� by having at least one of the No. 1 and 2-rated “Idol� telecasts join the battle?
“The idea of potentially going into a Thursday night and really taking a chunk of flesh out of the competition is enticing,â€? Liguori admitted before wildly switching metaphors. “But you know the most important thing we have to do is take care of our own knitting, and then worry about the competition.”
7/24: Update on Daughtry
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Chris Daughtry, receiving consistently the biggest cheers and reviews on the Idols tour so far, is insisting he won’t go the pop-rock path the way Bo Bice did in this story
An excerpt:
Ian Pirie, head of 19 Records’ U.S. division, describes a lot of real and virtual activity on the album.
“We’re flying people in and out of the tour to work with Chris in hotel rooms before shows,” Pirie says. “The great thing about technology is, with a laptop and some gear, you can trade ideas by uploading and downloading demos and works in progress. And he’s got a lot of songs he’s written himself over the years, which we’re helping develop as well. We’re not starting from ground zero.”
7/22: Worst ABC debut EVER
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“The One: Making a Music Star,” an “Idol” ripoff, is the lowest rated debut in recorded broadcast history for ABC, with 3.2 million viewers opening night, according to Nielsen Media Research. I can’t see ABC keeping this show around for the anticipated 10 weeks.
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7/22: Bush to meet Idols
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
How big a deal is “American Idol”? George W. Bush is trying to latch onto the phenomenon:
Here’s the link
President Bush is about to come face-to-face with the one man who has his voting record beat.
Bush plans to host “American Idol” Taylor Hicks and the other Top 10 finalists next Friday in the Oval Office. It will be the first time contestants from the hit television show have been invited to meet the president.
The meeting is scheduled for July 28, when the performers were scheduled to be in Washington for their “American Idols Live” show at the Verizon Center. Hicks has a personal connection inside the White House: Susan Whitson, Laura Bush’s press secretary, taught him 9th grade English at Hoover High School in Birmingham, Ala.
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7/21: Mandisa {hearts) Ruben
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
God, the publicists for the “Idols Live” tour are incredibly arrogant. Naturally, they can afford to be since the tour is sold out almost everywhere and advance promotion isn’t all that necessary.
The publicists a few weeks ago said they’d get me one of the Idol finalists to do an advancer before the August 3 date. Typically, I get some advance notice and I know who I’m talking to. Last year, I requested Nadia and I got her. Plus I had time to prepare questions. This year, well, at 3:15 p.m., the publicist, some guy named Adam, called and said he’d have Mandisa for me in TWO minutes.
Yes, I had two minutes to prepare for a talk with Mandisa, who I’ve spoken to before and for that reason, she was not on the top of my list. For pure local angle, I would have preferred Paris. For entertainment, Kellie would have sufficed. For articulate, heartfelt thoughts, Elliott would be perfect. But from the “Idols” tour folks’ attitudes, beggars can’t be choosers. And Mandisa’s a sweetheart. So at 3:17 p.m., Adam called back and gave me seven minutes. Suddenly, Mandisa was there on the phone. I had to wing it and sorry it’s not more scintillating. Here’s nearly all of it:
AJC: How’s the concerts been so far? You’ve been out two weeks?
Almost three weeks. It’s great. I’m having a great time.
AJC: How are they treating you?
We are treated really great. I’ve never been treated this good.
AJC: How’s bus life?
We don’t spend a whole lot of time on the bus. I’ve been on tour where we’ve lived on the bus. We go and stay in hotels.
AJC: Not Motel 6s?
No. It’s four-star hotels. They really are spoiling us.
AJC: How many songs do you sing?
I sing two songs and a duet. We’ve got a girl’s medley, then the group finale.
AJC: What do you do backstage?
I start out the show. I do my thing. Then I can chill for a long time. We’ll often be there watching movies, hanging out, just playing games.
AJC: What have you seen so far?
I brought movies I’ve seen before, introducing them to my friends. Lisa [Tucker] loves watching with me. Chick flicks. She cries and she can’t get a hold of herself. I enjoy watching her watch movies.
AJC: Specifically, what are some flicks you’ve watched?
“The Other Sister.” We’ve watched “Crash,” “The Wedding Planner.” “Hitch.”
AJC: Do you have weddings on your mind?
Did you know I dedicate one of my songs “If I Was Your Woman” to Ruben [Studdard]?
AJC: Yup. I just interviewed him last Saturday and told him that!
What did he say?
AJC: He was surprised, flattered. He didn’t say he wanted to get married though. Then again, you haven’t met each other.
I’m willing to take it slow Ruben!
AJC: How are you going to go about meeting him?
I don’t know when I’m going ot meet him. We’re going to Birmingham. Who knows if he’s going to be there? We were in New York and we ran into Carrie Underwood. Maybe he’ll be there in Birmingham. I wouldn’t know what to do. I’d probably fall on my face in embarrassment.
AJC: No! He’s got a new album coming out and is doing well. {I then told her about his new diet regime and how psyched he is to get out on the road to promote his new CD.]
I”m trying to give him a little bit of promotion. I’m talking about him in 60 cities!
AJC: How’s the audience reacting?
They’re all very supportive. They think we’d make a cute couple. I have to agree.
AJC: How’s life on the road when it comes to diet and exercise?
The good thing is we have afternoon call times for hte most part. I get up in the morning to exercise. I’m doing the South Beach low carb diet. You can usually find something to eat.
AJC: How long have you been doing it?
Just since the start of hte tour. I needed something that would not make me eat ouf o control.
AJC: How much weight have you lost so far?
I don’t know. I’ve sworn off scales. I’ts less to do with numbers. It’s doing something healthy.
AJC: What exercise do you do?
I love the elliptical trainer. If the hotel doesn’t have one, I use the treadmill. But the elliptical burns two times as many calories as a treadmill!
AJC: How did you go about picking songs for the tour?
They want us to do shows from the [compilation] CD so I do “I’m Every Woman.” Then I think all of us wanted to do songs that come naturally to us. i chose “If I Were Your Woman” by Alicia Keys. That was an easy choice for me. The album I’m going to get off after the tour will be a Christian album. I wanted an album with that kind of message. I also do a duet with Ace, “I’m Your Angel,” the R. Kelly song.
AJC: Who chose the duet pairings?
The people wh put the tour together.
AJC: You and Ace. That’s not one I would have thought of.
I love ace. He’s great. I start out the singing. The girls start squealing when he comes on.
AJC: Are you all missing Kat?
We can’t wait for her to get back.
AJC: Are you looking forward to Atlanta? It’s kind of like a second home for you, right?
It really is. My whole family is there. I can’t wait. I’m so happy we’re going twice. [August 3 and September 12 at Gwinnett]
AJC: Will everybody be able to go?
I’m not sure. The hard thing is we get four tickets per show. At our hometown, we get 10. But I’ve got Nashville and Sacramento. And a lot of people have family here.
AJC: When will you be able to sign to a label?
We’re let off on August 24. And the tour is over September 24.
AJC: So do you have a deal ready to go?
We’ve all got stuff lined up. August 24 is a technicality.
AJC: When will we be able to hear the album?
I’d like to take my time and do it well. I don’t want to come out with a bad quality project. I think early next year would around the time ‘American Idol’ is starting back up and get promotion.
AJC: Any chance you might move to Atlanta?
I think Nashville will be my home for now. But I do spend a lot of time in Georgia.
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7/20: Kat off tour for another week
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Will she make it for the Atlanta stop August 3? Kat fans can only hope. In the meantime, Taylor fans should be happy because he’s singing more songs to fill the Kat gap.
The host of katharinefans.com reports the news. Here’s an excerpt:
07/19/2006 8:48 PM Alert
Kat’s doctor is holding her out one more week. Her vocal chords are still not fully healed. She will not be on the View tomorrow and she will not be able to perform at the next few concerts. She is very dissapointed but her doctor feels it is best to be safe than sorry.
She said she would be on the View next week for sure.
If I get more detailed information I will let you know.
7/20: Idol copycat bombs
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
As I predicted Tuesday, the ABC show “The One: Making a Music Star” showed the appetite for endless permutations of “American Idol” is finite. It didn’t even draw 4 million viewers, coming way behind “Rock Star Supernova” (third with about 6 million viewers), “Last Comic Standing” on NBC (second with 7 millinon viewers), and a “House” repeat (first with 9 million viewers).
Putting it up against two other reality shows, including “Rock Star” was idiotic to say the least. And in Atlanta, WSB-TV has so little confidence in the show, it just preempted it for a Clark Howard repeat special and election coverage. The repeat of the opening episdoe did air on Wednesday at 8 p.m. I’ll know the ratings later Thursday and it’s doubtful it’s going to be much better when the results show at 10 p.m. airs. ABC must realize how lucky they were last summer with “Dancing with the Stars” because this summer, they’ve whiffed 100% on reality shows (“How to Get a Guy,” “Master of Champions,” now this!)
I’m now watching part of it and sure, some of these contestants have some modicum of talent but man, we’ve been there, done that. Anybody else catch it? And fortunately for me, none of the 11 contestants are from Atlanta. Phew!
The black judge looks way too much like Randy Jackson, minus the energy and personality. And what’s up with the judge with the purple beard?
7/19: Taylor,Kat,Kellie 1st albums out 11/14?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
If this report in Variety is to be believed, 19 Recordings is planning to turn November 14 into “American Idol release day.” Release dates tend to be changed but this story claims Kat, Taylor and Kellie are all going to release their first CDs that day. No word yet on Chris Daughtry’s album. Fantasia, Clay and Ruben are also set to come out with albums in September.
7/18: Rosie loves Pickler
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
here’s Rosie’s posting on her blog
PICK PICKLER!!
Posted by ro @ 12:02 pm in in the news
THAT KID
TODAY ON THE VIEW
PERFECTION!!!
TRIPLE LOVE HER
Kellie guested on the show Monday morning when she announced she got a record deal.
7/18: Surprise! Kellie gets a contract
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Here’s a big surprise: Kellie Pickler gets a record contract from 19 Recordings and its country label BNA.
She’s the fourth person to be signed this year by “Idol”-affiliated labels. In the past, labels affiliated with “Idol” have signed the winners and the runners up. But before this season, the only person outside the top two who has nabbed a contract was former Norcross resident Tamyra Gray the first season (which lasted only one album.). This time around, we already have Kat and Taylor signed, as well as fourth place finished Chris Daughtry and now Kellie.
If the date on the story is correct (November 14!), she might even beat Kat and Taylor to the record stores.
I caught a few minutes of her appearance on “The View.” She was adorable in a red dress and a short blond bob she’s had for awhile. At one point, she even read a piece about fanny facials, which mildly bemused Joy, Elisabeth and Barbara. (Kat was originally scheduled to guest host Wednesday but now it looks like Kelly Rowland is doing it that day based on the View Web site.)
Daughtry, given his following, signed last week with 19 Recordings. That wasn’t so much a shock at all.
19 Recordings and affiliated labels like RCA have options on any of the “Idol” contestants for up to 90 days after the show is over. It may now even be 120 days before other labels can negotiate with them. I haven’t seen the contract this year to know for sure but we are only about 52 days past the finale.
I can’t imagine they will sign anybody else but it’s fair to say both Elliott and Paris will get record deals of some sort. Ditto with Mandisa. Bucky might get a shot, too. And MJ’s blog says Ace is rumored to be getting something something as well. In other words, this will be by far the most successful crew of finalists ever, at least in terms of getting deals.
7/18: Fantasia’s comments in LA
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
USA Today was nice enough to provide all of Fantasia’s “Idol”-related comments from last week’s meeting with TV critics in Los Angeles. Here’s the link.
Here’s her thoughts on riding the Idol train — or not. She chooses to embrace Idol, as Ruben has:
“… Even after you win, you choose to stay, or you choose to go. And, you know, I choose to stay because they take good care of me, and we’ve been, you know — we’ve done a lot of things. If I don’t want to do it, I can say ‘No.’ You know, they’ll say, ‘If you want to do it, then it’s here for you. If not, we can take it, and we will move on.’ So it’s not like that at all. It’s — after you win it, it’s your — it’s your train. You take it, and you ride it how you want to ride it. “
7/18: Idol copycat on ABC
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Brace yourself: ABC has scheduled a show tonight called “The One: Making of a Music Star.” (Our local affiliate WSB-TV, though, is preempting the show for a Clark Howard special and election coverage so if you’re in Atlanta, you’ll have to watch it Wednesday in repeats at 8 p.m., followed by the live results show at 10 p.m.) On the surface, this looks like a copy of “American Idol.” ABC is attempting a few “twists” stolen from other reality shows. There’s the “Big Brother” aspect in which the 11 contestants will live together and be filmed 24/7, something “Idol” does not do. (Idol contestants in recent years have been placed in rental apartments and are not filmed in their off times.)
On elimination day (Wednesday at 10 p.m.), the bottom three will be announced but one person will be “saved” by the other contestants, one will be “saved” by the judges and one will be out. Here’s the site for the show. They will also be staying a music academy, so we’ll see a lot more behind the scenes “training” going on.
The judges are relative unknowns. And there’s no list of contestants just yet.
It’s up against Rock Star Supernova head to head, which isn’t exactly blowing up itself.
My prediction: people, still on “Idol” fatigue, will ignore the show. It will be lucky to draw 5 to 6 million viewers, which would be a big hit on the WB or cable but not on ABC. It’s all relaitve, of course.
Are any of you “idol” fans reading this even vaguely curious about “The One”?
7/18: Sales update
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Sales last week dropped about 40% for both Taylor and Kat’s singles. After two weeks, Kat has sold 75,000 physical copies, the lowest of any winner or runner up. But this is the first year of real download sales and she’s done well there: 85,000 total—49K for “Over the Rainbow” and 36K for the lousy “My Destiny.”
Taylor after three weeks has sold 361,000 physical singles and 161,000 downloads (97K of “Do I Make You Proud” and 64K for “Takin’ it to the Streets”)
On a percentage basis, Kat’s fans (presumably younger on average) are buying more downloads than physical singles compared to Taylor’s fans.
With downloads now included in sales, it’s now difficult to do a true apples-to-apples comparisons to previous winners and runners up.
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7/17: Ruben interview part I
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I’m going to split the Ruben Studdard interview I did Saturday into three parts since it’s fairly long. His concert was a lot of fun. Not a full house but the faithful did show (more than 1,000) and gave him much deserved love. He was in fine form vocally and his backup band was solid. He did some gospel, a load of covers (“What’s Goin’ On,” “How Can We Mend a Broken Heart,” “Never Too Much”) and even an acoustic set. He brought back “Superstar” from “Idol” days and a lovely acoustic version of “Flying Without Wings.” After a guy proposed to his woman in the audience, Ruben crooned Bryan Adams’ “Heaven.” Strange choice but it worked. He was in a relaxed, joking mood, teasing the front tables about their food, “threatening” to steal some of it away. He threw shoutouts to his family members and said he still thinks when people say “Rooooobe” (as in Ruben), he hears ” boooo!”
Here’s part 1. Part two is here and part three is here
AJC: You spend a lot of time in Atlanta, don’t you?
A lot of my family lives here so I’m always here.
AJC: Who do you have here?
My mom’s brother lives here. Two of my first cousins. One of my best friends. A lot of people.
AJC: So how often do you come over to Atlanta?
At least once a month. My manager lives here. [That’s Cedric Evans]
AJC: Is that why you’re doing a concert here. You’re not doing an official tour.
Not right now. They just called to as us to do a show and we did.
AJC: So what are you going to do since it’s a one-off show?
I’m going to have a good time. This is a chance to covers, basically whatever I want to do. I don’t want to confine ourselves. We have this set show we do always.
AJC: You’re going to try different things.
I want to do an acoustic set tonight, just do some other things you know. Have a good time.
AJC: You’ve been out of the spotlight for awhile now. What’s been holding up the album?
I don’t know if you’ve heard man but I’ve been going through a lot.
AJC: That legal case? [His godfather and manager allegedly stole $246,000 from him by taking out credit cards without Ruben’s knowledge and misappropriating funds. An Alabama judge last month rewarded Ruben with $500,000 for the lost funds and $1.5 million in punitive damages.]
That was an issue. I wanted to take some time off to change my lifestyle as it pertains to my eating habits.
AJC: It looks like you’ve lost some weight.
I’ve lost about 40 pounds. I’ve gone away and learned about proper nutrition.
AJC: It’s hard.
It’s more costly than it is hard. Honestly, once you change your thinking. I’m a perfectionist at whatever I do. That’s one area where I feel I didn’t have total control. Now I think I’ve got it. Now y’all pray for me, you know. It’s a journey.
AJC: Did you get a nutritionist?
I went to this place called the Duke Diet & Fitness Center [at Duke University in Durham, N.C.] A lot of athletes go there, a lot of famous people go there. I just needed to go somewhere to train myself. [Cedric said he spent about four weeks there, from late May through June]
AJC: Were you feeling bad?
No. I felt great. I just know I’m about to be in the second half of my life. I’m past 25. It’s time to be concerned. I don’t have any health problems but people who are overweight, at a certain point, that becomes an issue and I don’t want that to become an issue with me. I was an athlete in college and I want to get back to where I was so I can always be healthy and do the job I always love for the rest of my life.
AJC: You don’t want it to be a roller coaster like Luther Vandross.
That was his thing. This is all about me. I don’t care about fitting into the clothes or anybody’s image of what they think about me. All I’m interested in is my health.
AJC: What sort of exercise and diet regime are you on?
I do cardio twice a day 45 minutes. I totally changed what I do. Treadmill, outdoors, elliptical. 45 minutes twice a day except for show days. I have time like that. I can make my own schedule to take care of myself. Everybody should do it. Not just me. Everybody should take time out to make sure their body is in shape. For real.
AJC: As far as your third album, you’ve been working on it for awhile.
Too long, man. Too long!
AJC: Is the record company getting on your case?
No. I’m done with it. It comes out September 26. It’s called The Return.
AJC: Has it been that long that you need to call it “The Return�?
I wanted to do that because everywhere I go, people say, ‘Where have you been?’ so I just think it’ll be cooler. Alright. You asked where I was. Here I am. Everybody who loves mainstream music, not gospel music.
AJC: You mean your second album [“I Need an Angel�]?
That album helped me through a lot of personal situations and a lot of things spiritually. I grew up in the church. Singing R&B is an extension of what I did in church. I always wanted to do a gospel album and Clive [Davis, the famous record producer] gave me the opportunity. And now I’m back with the music the people love. I want to give a chance to touch the fans, show them that I’m just as much a real person as they are. A lot of times people see us on television and think we don’t have problems and go through situations. I’ve been hurt this year, last year by people I love. My godfather stole $250,000 from me.
AJC: That’s horrible.
AJC: These are life situations that celebrities go through as well. That album for me came at a time when I needed an angel in my life. I had a chance to pour out myself to the people. Not as many people who came to my R&B album. I’m cool man. Ruben Studdard is cool.
AJC: Not many gospel albums sell 430,000 copies.
It’s certified gold. I did that in six weeks. That just don’t happen. I’m blessed, man.
7/17: Ruben interview part 2
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Here’s part two of my interview with Ruben Studdard
AJC: This will be an R&B album obviously
Yes, an R&B album.
AJC: Have you shipped a single to radio
It’s called “Change Me.� Underdogs did it. The second single will probably be “What the Business Is.� Scott Storch’s record. It’s real hot. I think it’s going to drive the album through the roof. I’m really excited about the project.
AJC:Are you ready to do the promotion thing, the touring thing?
That’s something I’m looking forward to. We don’t get to do with Idol. We go touring as a group. We don’t get to go on tour for ourselves. Even after your album comes out, you’re obligated to do stuff for the show.
AJC: Are you still obligated to do anything for the show.
No. But if they ask me to do anything, I’m there. They’re the reason I’m here.
AJC: Have they haven’t asked too much from you recently?
I was supposed to be at the finale. I was at the Duke joint getting myself together.
AJC: What’s your reaction to the lawsuit?
It was closure. In January, I tried to call it off. But the judge brought the case back, wanted to bring it forward, thought it was so malicious. I’ve forgiven him. That’s another thing in myself was be able to let that go. I was having trust issues with people.
AJC: I can’t blame you. He’s so close to you.
I’m glad I came out victorious. The bible said, let God arise and your enemies scatter. I’m good man. The bible is not mine. It’s the lord.’s
AJC; Do you think you’ll get any money out of it?
I don’t even care man. You know what—the thing about it is. People have read the articles and it shows where he damaged my credit. That was because he got credit cards in my name. He’d take $10,000 instead of asking me, ‘Chris [Ruben’s first name] can I have $10,000?� It was so ridiculous. AJC: And he thought he’d not get caught?
I was getting ready to purchase a home when I came here to Atlanta to the Homebank office. I thought you never had credit card. I never had it. I had to pay it off but my credit score was still damaged. But it’s all good.
AJC? Can you start over. Are you clean now?
I’m good dog.
AJC: Have you purchased a house?
My accountant felt it wasn’t necessary for me to put my money ina $2 million house where I can get a loan. But now we’re doing our thing. I never had the opportunity to go under. I was always working. I was always making money. Though he stole from me, I never felt it. But it was the principle.
AJC: As far as the trust issues, how have you gotten past that?
I just had to let go and just forgive him. You can’t move on without forgiveness. I don’t have to forget the situation. It doesn’t mean forget. It just taught me a lot. It taught me I have to check everybody, not just because they’re family, to make sure my business is straight. I’m just extra anal when it comes to my finances. The difficult thing I trusted him because I was so busy. I don’;t know how many artists get to be in the situation I was in. I didn’t get a break for 18 months straight.
AJC: That was right after Idol, right?
When I did the gospel album. I finally got a break.
AJC: You didn’t have the pressures of doing something every single day. Are you feeling more relaxed?
I’m good. I think everything has come together. My band is hot. Same band even before the show. They raised their game up. I feel obliged to bring them along. They’re my friends and family. You wont see anybody who isn’t close to me backstage. I don’t have a big entourage. I don’t do anything but make good music.
AJC: Do you have high expectations for this album?
I want to be the highest seller at J Records ever. But the fans will tell you what they want intheir pocketbooks. If they love it, then they love it. If not, then I had a great time putting it together and I love the music.
7/17: Ruben interview part III
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Here’s the final portion of the Ruben interview I did Saturday at the Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre:
AJC: As you know, Birmingham is the center of the ‘Idol’ Universe. Did you ever have a chance to meet Taylor [Hicks]?
No. My mom met him. My brother met him.
AJC: Have you seen him on TV?
I saw him twice. I saw him one episode and on the finale. I think he’s a great singer man. I think he’s going to do well. I think people are really attracted to his personality. I think that’s what got me over, that southern charm. I think it’s the same thing that will get Taylor and Bo over. Bo is a rock star. He’s totally different from Taylor and me. Bo is just awesome. He’ll probably be on his Metallica in a couple of years.
AJC: Have you met Bo?
No. My mom has met him. I just like to be in the background. I don’t have to go to the premieres.
AJC: Are you surprised they finally made Birmingham an audition city?
It really shocked me it took me so long. I thought after I won, they’d come directly to them.
AJC: They did Greensboro last year.
The year after Diana DeGarmo, although she lived in Snellville, she was born in Birmingham. Then Bo the next year, still no audtions. Now Taylor won finally and now they get it. They’re going to find some great talent. We don’t play. There are some psychos there.
AJC: Mandisa has been giving some love for you on the tour.
Really? I didn’t know that.
AJC: In New Jersey, she changed the lyrics to one song to mention you.
Awww…
AJC: She hasn’t met you yet?
No. We haven’t met yet.
AJC: She’s a gospel gal. She relates to you.
I didn’t know that. I heard her sing. It was jazz week. She did it with her shoes off. I remember Paris doing this song, Fever.
AJC: Have you met Paris? You haven’t met any of these guys.
I haven’t met anybody. I take that back. I did a show with Ace. He opened up for me in California.
AJC: Are you surprised Idol is still so popular?
I think as long as people want to have a stake in somebody’s career. I think it’s going to get bigger . People keep trying to copy it. There’s only one Idol. Always imitated, never duplicated.
AJC: No regrets about doing anything.
It hasn’t hurt me. You wouldn’t be here writing about me.
AJC: Who are some producers you’ve worked with for your current album?
Scott Storch. Mario Winans, Pooh Bear. You’ll see him on Making the Band. Underdogs. Ne-Yo.
AJC: Any guests?
No guests. All me. I just wanted to do my thing. I wanted it to be about Ruben. That’s it.
AJC: There was a lot less intervention from the record company.
They said do your thing.
AJC: They probably were on your case a lot more the first album.
This time, they’re a lot more chill.
AJC: What’s the promotion going to be like?
It’ll be better promotion because Idol is not in the way. I haven’t had a chance to do a radio tour. I want to go all over. I want to make people sick of seeing me. Whoever calls me, I’ll be there. If a country station wants to talk to me, I’ll talk.
AJC: Were you sick of the media at some point?
No. I like my job, man. This is what I wanted to do. Nobody asked me to audition for Idol or put a gun to my head or ask me to be a professional singer. This is all that comes with it.
AJC: You don’t mind fans coming up to you while you’re at a restaurant.
Except when I have a fork in my mouth! That could be kind of annoying. Other than that, you can get an autograph from me.
AJC: Why don’t people wait until you’re finished eating?
What? What? They love it! (chuckle). But it’s cool. If I saw Janet Jackson in a restaurant, I wouldn’t care if she had a French fry in her mouth. I’d want to speak to her.
AJC: Where do you like to eat around here?
I love Justin’s. [That’s P. Diddy’s restaurant in Buckhead.] Atlanta Fish Market. Trying to think. I’m usually in the studio when I’m here.
AJC: You seem really relaxed. I remember you doing an interview right after “Idol� and you were just tired.
Man. That was an experience. You catch McPhee and Taylor during the tour and see how they feel. Can you do an interview on the bus? I’m sleeping!
AJC: You don’t have that stress on tour, right?
That’s one thing I learned about being on tour with Idol. It’s not like being on television. If you mess up and the judges don’t catch it. But your fans will pay attention. If I can give them advice, it’s always do your best on stage even if you’re sick. I remember one concert I was asleep right through the concert until Clay was on. I woke up and couldn’t sing. I didn’t see bad press but that was an awful situation that day.
AJC: Have you heard from Clay lately?
We just kicked with him two weeks ago. We went to Kelly Clarkson’s show in Carolina. I love her show. She come to Atlanta you have to come see her.
AJC: She’s not coming to Atlanta. I saw her at the Fox Theatre last year.
I think this tour is better. You’ve got the staging. If she’s coming anywhere close, you’ve got to see it.
AJC: Did you get a chance to see her?
We kicked it! We’re familiy man!
AJC: How are things with Fantasia?
She had a birthday party she call me about. But I had to go home and handle something with my mama.
AJC: She’s got that movie coming out about herself.
Everyone that’s ever been on the show who wanted to do something for herself is doing it.
AJC: Diana DeGarmo is doing Broadway.
That’s what I’m saying. Work!
AJC: I haven’t heard much from Justin
He’s got a jazz album that came out. And Josh [Gracin] is doing great on country. And Kim Locke is doing it on the pop charts. We don’t play. George Huff has a great gospel record. You got to open your eyes. I think Paris will be heard, too. And Chris Daughtry. I really think people should take us seriously henceforth and forever more.
AJC: I think people do.
We don’t play around. And we sell records. They come off the shelves, even before we leave the show.
AJC: I think people respect Idol a lot more now than when you were on.
7/16: Speaking with Ruben
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
At Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre, I got to speak to Ruben Studdard for about 25 minutes during soundcheck Saturday afternoon.
I’ll post excerpts from the interview once I transcribe it. He struck me as a laid-back, truly nice guy, real confident and psyched to be getting back into the world again promoting his third album, which comes out in September. He’s dubbing it “The Return” since he hasn’t been around in awhile. He actually went to the Duke Diet Center and has been getting his health and weight in order. He’s lost 40 pounds and looks a bit lighter than when he was on the show though is still well over 300 pounds. He says he does plenty of cardio, two stints of 45 minutes each.
He is still buds with Clay, went to the Kelly Clarkson concert in Durham with him a couple weeks ago.
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7/15: More Idol tour reviews
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Here’s the EW.com review from East Rutherford, N.J..
Notes include Chris being the hottest, Ace being cheesy and Paris trying too hard to be Beyonce.
And here’s a review from Albany, NY. This reviewer clearly is not a big Idol fan but loves Daughtry, too.
The New York Times, which requires log in, was more snide than anything else. The reviewer clearly wasn’t an “Idol” fan and was not all that excited to be there.
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7/15: Fantasia tears up
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
At the Television Critics Association gathering in Pasadena, Calif., Fantasia made an appearance to promote her movie on Lifetime about herself played by… her.
I can’t make the proceedings. A lovely TV critic at the Philly Daily News, Ellen Grey, mentions it on her blog here.
Here’s an excerpt:
I’m not sure yet if this press tour’s going to be remembered as the Trail of Tears, but so far we’ve seen Dan Rather, Shannon Doherty and now Fantasia Barrino cry.
Call me a sap, but the clips for Lifetime’s “The Fantasia Barrino Story: Life Is Not a Fairy Tale” had me tearing up a little, too, so when the lights came up just now and Fantasia herself was crying — and director Debbie Allen patting her face — it seemed totally understandable.
OK, I’m a sap.
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7/14: Press tour restrictions lifted
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The control freaks who oversee the “Idol” tour had instituted an unreasonably strict photo policy in which they required clearance of all photos taken by press during the press conference and concert. Many publications refused to comply. They appear to have lightened up, only requiriing that press take pictures only during certain times of the concert—that’s standard. Here’s the link
And The New York Times actually gave Kelly Clarkson a good review!
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7/13: HBO and Kelly Clarkson
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
HBO, known for cutting edge programming, is hosting a Kelly Clarkson concert. Go figure!
The musical performance will take place at London’s historic Wembley Arena on Feb. 3, and will feature songs from her past two albums, such as “Miss Independent,” “Since U Been Gone” and “Breakaway,” as well as music from her much-anticipated third album, which will be released that same month.
Here’s a link.
7/13: Diana DeGarmo review
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Wendell Brock, our esteemed theater critic, gave “Brooklyn,” starring Melba Moore and Diana DeGarmo, a C-minus based on the Tuesday night performance. Here’s the link
This is Brock’s take on Diana:
DeGarmo holds her own as a fledgling star who’s still on a journey of discovery. In a thankless role, she is, at times, a charming actress, though her voice sounds purposefully calculated to make up for its emotional thinness. The former Snellville resident may be a big-winded pop diva in the mold of Celine Dion and Mariah Carey, but she takes a backseat to [Melba] Moore.
7/13: Does anybody remember this guy?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I saw this AP story and I’m thinking, “Who is this guy and why do we care?”
Former ‘American Idol’ Contestant Indicted
SALT LAKE CITY — A former “American Idol” contestant accused of videotaping sexual encounters with two teenage girls has been indicted on child pornography charges.
Daniel James “DJ” Boyd, 27, pleaded not guilty Tuesday in U.S. District Court to charges of production of child pornography and possession of child pornography.
A trial date was set for Sept. 18. If convicted, he faces up to 40 years in prison.
Boyd, a contestant on the popular TV talent competition two years ago, was arrested last month in West Valley City after a 14-year-old girl contacted police. He has remained in the Salt Lake County Jail since his arrest.
The Salt Lake County district attorney’s office has also charged Boyd with unlawful sexual activity with a minor and unlawful supply of alcohol to minors.
He is scheduled to appear in district court July 25 for a preliminary hearing on those charges.
July 12, 2006 - 6:03 p.m. EDT
Copyright 2006, The Associated Press. The information contained in the AP Online news report may not be published, broadcast or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.
7/13: Local boy eliminated from Rock Star
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Chris Pierson, an Atlanta rocker, was the second person eliminated from “Rock Star Supernova” Wednesday night. Last week, he was in the bottom three but saved himself with a solid verson of “L.A. Woman.”
This week, he did Franz Ferdinand’s “Take Me Out,” which led to judge Dave Navarro saying: “It almost feels like I’m watching the winner of some kind of contest at a charity event.”
“I’m here to learn and get better as a performer,” Chris said.
“There’s a certain level of authenticity in your performance that I’m missing,” Navarro said. Jason Newsted agreed.
Ouch!
Then tonight during the elimination round, they went back and forth about the issue of authenticity. Chris decided to go acoustic to show his authenticity with Tonic’s “If You Could Only See,” which another performer sang the day before. Snooze. Dull song. He did okay but clearly, the band saw the fact he was in the bottom three twice in a row meant the audience wasn’t vibing with him. So he goes home. I’ll try to talk to him tomorrow and see how he feels.
7/12: PIckler on The View
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
With Kat all set to guest host on July 19, now Kellie Pickler is being given a try on “The View” on Monday July 17. I definitely have to place that on my DVR!!!
According to the New York Post, in addition to Pickler,”The View” has tapped subs Deborah Roberts (ABC News), Lara Spencer (“The Insider”), Emily Deschanel (“Bones”), actress Kelly Rowland (“Girlfriends”), Marisol Castro (“GMA”) and Tanika Ray (“Extra”) as the show nears its August hiatus.
7/12: Caldwell mingles with TV critics
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Lisa de Moraes, one of the most biting TV writers around, is doing a TV blog at the Television Critics Association shindig in Hollywood the next three weeks. (I won’t be going this time but our colleague Jill Vejnoska will be there starting today). Here, she writes amusingly about tat-covered Kimberly Caldwell from season two at the TV Guide Channel party.
TCA is basically when the TV networks wine and dine critics in hopes for better coverage down the road. They cart out their stars and create settings where we get to talk to folks as small as Caldwell and as big as Sally Field and James Woods. Fantasia, who will be in that Lifetime movie about herself next month, is going to be at TCA later this week.
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7/12: Kat update
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Kat assures her fans she’s been shut down by the doctor, that she isn’t ducking the tour on purpose. Here’s her note on her message board.
An excerpt:
I want you all to know first before I get into this that I had no control over the fact that I couldn’t be on tour for the next couple of weeks. My doctor shut me down. I was absolutely devasted. I feel horrible for the fans that missed me and would love to make up to you all some how. But first and foremost I must get better so that I can have a great and long carreer. I want to be able to see you all your faces one day on my very own tour. There have been many rumors circulating as to what I’m doing with all this down time. I have heard a rumor that I will be missing the entire tour, I can assure you that that is completely false. I am looking to join the tour around the 21st. That is the doctors orders, not mine.
7/12: Former Idol update
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Donna Reynolds over at www.foxesonidol.com. noted that Scott Savol got married Saturday. And Bo will be a guest on “Live with Regis and Kelly” July 20.
I will be attending the Ruben Studdard concert Saturday at Mable House Amphitheatre. He hasn’t released a fresh album in ages so I doubt he’s going to be a big draw by himself. I’ll report by Sunday how the concert went. I’m sure he’ll be showcasing new material though I’m not sure when his new CD will be dropping. I hope to grab him for a couple of minutes backstage so if you have any questions, I’ll try to pass them on to Ruben.
Also, Diana DeGarmo opens as the lead of “Brooklyn” at Fox Theatre tonight through Sunday. If anyone sees the concert, please provide a review here! Her rendition of one of the “Brooklyn’s” songs at the Rialto a couple of months back was simply stunning, a highlight of the night.
7/11: Audition cities (no Atlanta again)
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
After using Atlanta as an audition site the first three years, Idol has gone elsewhere and will do so again this year. After Ruben, Bo and Taylor, Birmingham is awarded as an audition site for the first time. They are trying Memphis a second time after last year’s post-Katrina problems forced them to move to North Carolina (which gave us Kellie, Bucky and Chris, so that wasn’t a bad thing.). They are trying Seattle for the first time since season one. Minneapolis, where Paris spent most of her youth, has ever been an audition site. East Rutherford is basically New York since it’s right outside the city. Birmingham and Memphis, geographically, are very very close. I’m surprised they’re using both cities. USA Today says San Antonio has been an audition site before but that’s not correct, according to the publicist I know at Fox. This is a first for San Antonio. Los Angeles has been a common site if not the most fruitful spot (though Kat was found there.). All will be indoor sites so rain won’t be an issue.
No changes in the age qualifications. So get your plane tickets (or in the case of Birmingham, it’s just a two hour drive.)
Here’s the press release:
SUMMER HITS A HIGH NOTE WHEN “AMERICAN IDOL� AUDITIONS BEGIN IN LOS ANGELES TUESDAY, AUGUST 8
Audition Dates Also Set For San Antonio, East Rutherford, Birmingham, Memphis, Minneapolis and Seattle
It’s that time of year again, as AMERICAN IDOL begins its search for the next singing superstar. America’s favorite show is offering an extraordinary opportunity for talented singers to perform before millions of TV viewers and become household names, with one winning the “American Idol� title and a major recording contract.
The quest to become the next American Idol starts now. Auditions for the sixth edition of AMERICAN IDOL begin in Los Angeles on Tuesday, Aug. 8, at The Forum.
Auditions will continue in the following cities:
San Antonio, TX Friday, Aug. 11 Alamodome East Rutherford, NJ Monday, Aug. 14 Continental Airlines Arena Birmingham, AL Monday, Aug. 21 BJCC Memphis, TN Sunday, Sept. 3 FedExForum Minneapolis, MN Friday, Sept. 8 Target Center Seattle, WA Tuesday, Sept. 19 Key Arena
Audition information for these cities will be announced shortly. Season six of AMERICAN IDOL will premiere in January 2007 on FOX.
LOS ANGELES AUDITIONS
WHO: Men and women 16 to 28 years old on Aug. 6, 2006, and eligible to work in the United States. Restrictions apply – please go to AmericanIdol.com for specifics.
WHEN: Tuesday, August 8, 2006
WHERE: The Forum 3900 W. Manchester Blvd. Inglewood, CA 90305
Additional audition information, including forms and requirements, is available at: www.AmericanIdol.com. All press requests should be e-mailed to idolpr@fox.com.
Twenty-two-time Emmy-nominated AMERICAN IDOL is created and executive-produced by Simon Fuller, founder of 19 Entertainment; and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; Nigel Lythgoe, President, 19 Television; and Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.
-FOX-
7/10: Daughtry signs with RCA
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
19 Recordings/RCA Records has signed Chris Daughtry. In the past, 19 has seldom signed on folks who didn’t finish in the top two. Tamyra Gray from season one comes to mind. Do you think this is a good thing for Chris — or not?
Here’s the press release:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JULY 10, 2006
‘AMERICAN IDOL’ ROCK SENSATION CHRIS DAUGHTRY SIGNS WITH 19 RECORDINGS/RCA RECORDS
Chris Daughtry, who impressed millions of viewers with his rock prowess week after week during season five of “American Idol” by performing classic songs like “Hemorrhage In My Hands” by Fuel, “Broken” by Seether and “Innuendo” by Queen, has been signed to 19 Recordings/RCA Records.
The North Carolina native will form a band and has already begun to work with A list collaborators to record self and co/written songs. The release is expected in the fourth quarter of 2006.
Daughtry has already scored a hit single on Billboard’s Hot 100. His version of Bon Jovi’s “Wanted Dead Or Alive” was the highest-charting song from a season five contestant when it debuted at No. 43. Daughtry also was the highest-charting season finalist on the Hot Digital Tracks chart when the song debuted at No. 16. The song is still the most downloaded by a finalist from this seasons show, with more than 69,000 downloads sold to date.
America was shocked when Daughtry was voted off “American Idol” in fourth place, as many had predicted he would go all the way. Pundits have speculated that fans were so convinced Chris was going to win, they were complacent about voting for him. Whatever the reason, Daughtry’s bright future is assured with the forthcoming release of his debut album for 19 Recordings/RCA Records.
For Press Inquires Contact: Sherry Ring SVP Publicity, RCA Records
7/10: Fantasia and Aretha
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Fantasia has collaborated with one of her heroes Aretha Franklin, according to this MTV.com news story.
Others working with Fantasia on her follow-up album include Kanye West, Ne-Yo and Missy Elliott.
Fantasia expects the yet-undetermined first single to hit the airwaves in August, just in time for her acting debut. The singer stars as herself in “Fame” director Debbie Allen’s “Life Is Not a Fairy Tale: The Fantasia Barrino Story,” which premieres August 19 on Lifetime.
7/10: Randy’s Oreo commercial
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Randy Jackson’s Oreo commercial is creating a stir.
An excerpt from the story:
Critics of the campaign include leading academic and advertising figures who charge that Nabisco and the Idol judge are reckless in highlighting the connection between a commercial product and a racial slur.
“It just amazes me that Randy Jackson and Nabisco would put themselves in this position,” says Advertising Age columnist Bob Garfield, the Roger Ebert of the ad trade. “Now if Randy had played with the racial subtext in some way, that would have been a different matter. That would have been pretty hilarious, actually, flipping the bird at his jackass critics. But in the ad, it’s as if he and everybody else were completely unaware of the double entendre.”
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7/8: MJ reviews Worcester stop
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
MJ went to the Worcester concert and took some great photos, providing more commentary here. She’s incredible. Does she have a job?
One reviewer here noted that Paris ordered the Worcester crowd to stand up for “Midnight Train to Georgia.” That’s not a good thing— the ordering part. I bet she won’t need to order anybody here to stand up for that song!
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7/8: Kat on “The View” 7/19
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“The View,” with an opening left by Star Jones, is using a cavalcade of guest hosts this month. So use your TiVo for this one: Katharine will be guest hosting July 19. Will she be able to work in that free-wheeling environment where singing isn’t necessary?
Others to be tested include Carrie Ann Inaba, the female judge from “Dancing With the Stars.” Others include Shannen Doherty (!!!), Brandy and Kelly Monaco.
7/8: Concert ticket needed!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I was just informed by the Idols tour publicist that like last year, I won’t be able to get review tickets to the Idol Live concert at Gwinnett August 3. I’ve got to buy one myself. If anybody has a spare ticket I can purchase at a reasonable price that’s reasonably close to the stage, please email me at rho@ajc.com. Thanks!
7/7: Kat sales/”So You Think…”
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Billboard.biz, a subscription only site, says Katharine McPhee’s “My Destiny/Somewhere Over the Rainbow” sold 47,000 copies in its first full week at retail. She also sells an additional 28,000 digital downloads of the song. She debuted at No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100.
This pales with the first week performance of Taylor’s “Do I Make You Proud?” single. That moved 190,000 copies in its first full week. Hicks also sold 38,000 digital downloads of “Proud” in its first week. His combined sales tally awarded him an easy debut at No. 1 on The Billboard Hot 100, which blends radio airplay, commercial single sales and digital downloads
Carrie’s first single sold 130,000 a year ago while Bo had 106,000. So Kat had a much weaker first week relatively speaking. Downloads weren’t counted.
Diana DeGarmo two years ago opened with about 50,000 copies sold of “Dreams” vs. Fantasia’s 134,000 Again, no downloads were included.
On another topic, with just seven couples left, there was NO excuse for Fox to stretch out “So You Think You Can Dance” to two hours Wednesday night and the results show an hour. They had to pad the first 30 minutes with “leftover” audition bits. Then again, there’s so little fresh product for Fox to offer during the summers, they figure stretching it out is better than a repeat of “That 70s Show.” If Fox had a hit sitcom or two that was repeatable, they’d probably run it and shorten “So You Think” to 90 minutes or even 60 minutes. With just six couples next week, I hope they do cut it back.
I’m a big Heidi fan, by the way!
7/6: More from the NH tour
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The New Hampshire paper here wrote about the tour, too. Someone paid $500 a ticket, showing how hot the tour is.
And here’s something we’re looking forward to as media come August 3:
Behind the scenes, handlers were highly protective of the performers. Newspaper photographers and TV cameramen were required to agree to several conditions before shooting or recording in the arena. 19 Recordings Limited, the record label managed by “Idol� creator Simon Fuller, insisted on reserving the right to approve all photographs taken at the event, among other concessions.
We as a newspaper don’t agree to such conditions so I’m not sure how we’ll get photos from the concert. We may have to ask you folks in the front rows to email us your camera phone shots!
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7/6: Idol tour opens in New Hampshire
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
MJ (of blog fame) and Whitney Matheson of USA Today’s Pop Candy fame both attended last night’s opening tour of American Idol. Katharine McPhee couldn’t perform due to laryngitis, according to AP.
According to MJ here, the sound was muddled from the 14th row. Hopefully, they’ll fix that problem down the road. Last year, I heard there was some sound issues, too.
Anyway, Mandisa opened. (This is the first time the 10th place person didn’t start the show.) She sang “I’m Every Woman” and “If I Was Your Woman,” according to MJ. I’m not sure what that second song is.
She sang “I’m Your Angel” with Ace, who then sang “Father Figure,” then Maroon 5’s “Harder to Breathe.”
Lisa Tucker did “Signed Sealed and Delivered” and “Your Song, followed by “Someone Saved My Life Tonight.”
Paris joined her for TLC’s “Waterfalls.” Then Paris took over and sang “Midnight Train to Georgia,” which I expect will rock the house in Gwinnett August 3 and Sept. 12. She followed up with “Crazy in Love.”
No duet between her and Bucky, who opened with “Superstition,” then went into “Drift Away.”
He and Kellie did “You’re the One That I Want” from Grease. She then did her best tune from the show “Walkin’ After Midnight,” followed by “I’m the Only One,” which you may have heard on “Rock Star” last night, too.
Following intermission, Chris Daughtry came on to do “A Whole Lotta Love,” “Wanted Dead or Alive” and a shortened version of Styx’s “Renegade.” Elliott did “Savin’ Me” by NIckelback wth Chris, who played a guitar.
MJ said Elliott sang a song called “All My Love.” Not sure who that’s by if she has the title correct (Whitney over at USA Today has it as “Never Too Much.”) Then it’s “Trouble” and his best tune “Moody’s Mood for Love.”
Naturally, we’re missing Kat and the song list might change by the time they get here but I’d assume at least 90% of it will stay the same.
The guys, Elliott, Ace, Chris and Bucky, came on and sang “Patience” and dedicated it to her. MJ has some titles wrong cos she says Mandisa, Kellie, Lisa and Paris sang “I’m a Woman.” That isn’t a song title I know. Then “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” which they did on the finale. (Whitney of USA Today just has it as the second song.)
Taylor finally came on with “Jailhouse Rock,” like he did on Leno. He then did Bob Seger’s “Hollywood Nights,” a song he couldn’t get cleared on the show. Then it was Wilson PIckett’s “Do You LIke Good Music”) and “What’s Goin’ On.” He then did “Living in the City” and “Don’t Let Me Down.” That’s the most songs a single person has ever sung on the “Idol” tour, though I suspect he added a couple of tunes to fill in the missing gap that is Kat.
He did the lousy single “Do I Make You Proud,” then “Takin’ it to the Streets.”
The finale was a group sing with “We Are the Champions” and “Living in America.”
Whitney over at USA Today’s Idol Chatter recounts the concert her way.
7/5: Rock Star Supernova
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Rock Star, the rock version of American Idol, is back on CBS tonight to seek a lead singer. This time, they’re creating a new band with Tommy Lee of Motley Crue (who loves the camera, mouthing the words to “Piece of My Heart” while Jill Gioia is singing), Jason Newsted of Metallica and Gilby Clarke of Guns ‘n Roses, with Atlanta’s Butch Walker producing. Again, they’ve found some great talent. They even have some guy who’s famous in Iceland, though he comes off a bit too smarmy and Vegas-y.
The worst? Phil Ritchie doing a so-so version of Cult of Personality by Living Colour. “I just felt like your stage presence lacked that strength and confidence,” said Dave Navarro. “You were kind of pitchy,” said Clarke, channeling Paula Abdul. (Later, Clarke stole another one from Abdul by telling the punkish Lucas, “You made that song your own,” after he did Billy Idol’s “Rebel Yell.”)
The best? I just watched Delana and wow, she did an incredible version of Nirvana’s “Lithium.” Her intensity and stage presence is undeniable. If a woman is going to win this, she’s definitely the one to keep an eye on. Others to watch include Toby, Josh and Patrice.
Two Georgians are on board. Dana Andrews, 22, of Augusta does the well-worn “I’m the Only One” by Melissa Etheridge, which has been sung at least a couple of times on “Idol.” She’s got a great soulful voice with just enough edge that you could see her front a rock band. Sure beat Kellie PIckler’s version. Would she work with Supernova? Probably not but you never know. She’s safe though for now.
“I thought your voice was awesome,” guest Butch Walker. “Especially being 22, most people can’t sing their way out of a sack without autotuned in a studio and pitch is fixed. Your pitch is great.” (I wish he had chosen to be a full time judge because he’s colorful and articulate but he bowed out because he doesn’t want to be known as a TV show judge.)
“You’ve been an incredible gift and we’re watching it develop before our eyes,” Newsted said.
Chris Pierson of Atlanta. “Music was an outlet for all I was going through,” he said after an injury took him out of baseball. He sings “Roxanne.” He does an extremely different version from the Police original. He rocks it up but it doesn’t look like the band is liking it. I don’t think he’s doing too badly. But my initial feeling is he isn’t going to win this with the morbid looks on the faces of Tommy Lee & Co.
“I was not a huge fan of that,” Navarro said. “That song showcased how limited your range is.” Ouch!
“Did you change the arrangement?” Butch asked him.
“The old arrangement is not current. I wanted to go a little more rock with it.,” Pierson said.
“You have to be careful how you rearrange a classic,” Butch said.
“It’s cool to change a tune and rock it up. Unfortuantely, that one sucked, Chris. Sorry, man.” Clarke said.
Chris will be in the bottom three and he’ll likely be the first one booted though I really found Phil the weakest. The early bottom three were Chris, Phil and Magni. That’s fair.
7/6: Kellie/Constantine no longer an item
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
People has the scoop on how the Kellie/Constantine pairing fizzled from Constantine’s point of view..
“We were hanging out and talking all the time and I haven’t spoken to her in a while, so I’m not really sure what that’s all about,” Maroulis told People. “I don’t know if it’s her being too busy or thinking that she’s a big star now or something. I’m not really sure what the whole situation is.”
7/3: Kelly’s first concert of summer tour
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Kelly Clarkson is skipping Atlanta for her summer tour but she was in Tampa and here is review in our sister paper the Palm Beach Post..
7/2: Taylor in Provo
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Taylor was at the Stadium of Fire concert in Provo Utah. Here’s another story from the same event
There were 40,000-plus people at this concert. And sales apparently quadrupled after it was announced Taylor was on the bill, according to this story in the Salt Lake City Tribune
