New URL for the American Idol buzz blog!
Please go to the new American Idol Buzz blog at http://blogs.ajc.com/american-idol-blog/
Access Atlanta > American Idol Buzz > Archives > 2007 > January
January 2007
1/31: We love LA!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Now it’s time to hit the land where we found Katharine McPhee: Los Angeles. As expected, there were poseurs aplenty. But there was signs of life, too. A whopping 40 people made it to Hollywood (okay, they made it down the street.) Too bad we only saw three of those singers who made it through. Just three! What’s that about???
Olivia Newton-John guested on “Grease: You’re the One That You Want” this past Sunday. Tonight, she’s on Idol. She’s an equal opportunity promoter. And she’s more of a softie than Paula. In other words, she added virtually nothing to the proceedings based on what little we saw.
“Idol” naturally starts with Mr. Nutty. I’m the most exciting entertainer on planet Earth,” proclaims Martik Manoukian. He enters, strips off his shirt and makes some panther moves and sounds. The singing, as Simon says, was “horrendous.” And he’s out.
Sholandric Stallworth looks like Barry White, sounds worse than Jack Black and yelps “If Ever You’re In My Arms Again.” Yes, he yelps.
Marianna Riccio is horrid. That was 16 years of vocal training? “You sounded like Cher after she’s been to the dentist,” Simon notes. She begs on her knees. “Please, please, please,” she said. She brings her mom. “You’re not good enough,” Simon said. Paula rolls her eyes. “Mom was foxy,” Simon noted.
Unlike Birmingham, where politeness reigns, the contestants in L.A. reek of desperation.
Alaina Alexander from West Hollywood has a decent smoky quality to her voice. “I thought that was really really really great,” Simon said. Finally, somebody who goes through.
Phuong Pham fashions herself to be the next Taylor Hicks. Um… no. Her “Dancing in the Streets” would cause people to run away from the streets. “I wasn’t sure what was worse,” Simon said. “The singing or the dancing.”
The best of the show was Brandon Rogers. He was a backup singer for the likes of Anastacia and Christina Aguilera. He’s impressive, wooing Olivia and Paula. “You got a sigh from the ladies,” Randy said. “Of everyone we’ve seen today, this is by far the best audition,” Simon said. “For the first time, I can see this guy making the finals. You have a likability about you which is something you and I share.”
Brian Miller possesses boyish charm and a spiritual tone to his voice. “Forgettable,” Simon said. “Based on the voice, I say yes,” Randy said. The ladies say yah. Three out of four gets him to Hollywood.
Idol then pulls out the tearjerker story, courtesy of Sherman Pore, who has no other reason to be there except for his back story. Part of the problem: at age 64, he’s about 36 years too old for eligibiility. But the producers let him see Randy, Simon and Paula. His wife had just died from cancer and he had a petition with more than 300 names to allow him to compete. The guy sang “You Belong to Me” and he was actually really good, which made it truly sweet. Even Simon was touched. “I won,” Pore said afterwards. “I am a winner.”
Back to the real competiton. Or not. Personality-packed, flirty (to Simon) Cavett “Sparkles” Carr went down, literally.”You’re making me nervous,” Simon said. Her boyfriend Darold Gray (20??? He looks 30!) did even worse. He was flatter than my writing!
Eric Mueller, in any key, was another waste of time. And he used the Randy/Paula guide to singing, which Simon was so amused about, he tried to ask Eric about it after the fact but Randy and Paula shooed him away.
And they didn’t make the folks do the same song — or if they did, they never showed it.
Permalink | |
1/31: Kat McPhee giveaway
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I ended up with two copies of the Katharine McPhee press kit, which includes several color photos of her and her new CD, plus a DVD. Among my favorite bloggers, please email me at rho@ajc.com if you’d like my spare copy. I’ll pick out the best plea on why they like Katharine and you get the gift! I’ll also post the plea so make sure what you write is something you’re willing to show the world.
In my copy of TV Guide for next week, which features our buddy Topher McCain, Katharine McPhee does a Q&A. When asked the hardest part of doing “Idol,” she said oddly, it was the message boards. (Huh?)
“I think those ‘Idol’ forums — like Americanidol.com — should be shut down,” McPhee told TV Guide. “It’s basically just an opportunity for people to say the meanest things without consequence.”
Q: Meaner than the judges?
A: “The judges never made me cry. But their comments hurt. I was constantly fighting the pain and putting Band-Aids over the wounds to keep going.”
Q: How did you manage it?
A: “I was like two people. I was Katharine, standing there, performing, but I was also watching myself perform. And judging myself. That’s something I will have to grow into as an artist. I have to learn how to let go.”
Indeed, Kat, let it go!
Permalink | |
1/31: Who is Tatiana McConnico?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Tatiana McConnico, 17, of Austell made an impression on last night’s “American Idol” and went off to Hollywood. We have no clue if she makes the final 24 but regardless, a quick google search of her name and she pops up a few times.
She won, for instance, a teen pageant in the Virgin Islands in 2003. Check this out..
She played Dorothy in the Kenny Leon version of “The Wiz” back in 2005, according to this news item. And our AJC theater reveiw even mentions her positively in a review of the play.
Four years ago, she performed on CBS’s Star Search.. Here’s her head shot from the CBS site: 
She performed in “The Color Purple,” according to this story.. Wendell again namedrops her in his review.
We’ll see in two weeks how far she gets.
Permalink | |
1/30: Can Birmingham bring it?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“American Idol” finally showed up in Birmingham, the city that gave us Bo Bice, Ruben Studdard and Taylor Hicks. And we know there’s got to be a few Atlantans who drove over there to represent.
I’m amused the producers still give the impression the huge crowds come the same day as Simon, Randy and Paula when in fact that’s not true. Of course, there’s plenty of talent and a lot less wackiness in da South. And being only an hour, it goes by relatively smoothly with many of the ousted contestants being oddly polite, saying “thank you” when given lousy assessments (i.e. Lakia Hill). That’s the South, bless our hearts!
Erica Skye provides us the first impression of Birmingham 2007 with “Unchained Melody,” Simon’s favorite song. Naturally, she’s terrible. “It’s like neverending torture,” Simon said. “You are an absolutely hopeless singer.” Paula even gets up and leaves the table because Erica won’t leave.
We know that “Idol” doesn’t always show the singers in any order so who knows at what point this is during the day.
Katie Bernard is the Orlando gal with the high-pitched talking voice though it’s not as high pitched as, say, Paris Bennett last year. She does a Tamyra Gray song, “A House is Not a Home” and is not bad. Randy says yes. Simon says no. So it’s up to Paula. Paula is standing up again. Unlike Seattle, where she seemed sedated, she’s hepped up today. Katie brings in her husband and Paula says yes. “She made my day,” Paula said.
We’re back from commercial break and here’s a loacl gal and another female teenager, 17-year-old Tatiana McConnico from Austell. She looks adorable. Can she sing? Yes, she can! Randy and Paula look charmed. “100% yes!” Randy said. “Might be the best voice I hear in Birmingham!” I may be talking to her soon!
Diana Walker is from Atlanta, too, but she doesn’t look quite as promising. She’s a little pitchy but entertaining. “I get standing ovations,” she said. “When they stand, do they exit real quickly?” Randy said. Wow. Isn’t that Simon’s line?
Bernard Williams of Pleasant Grove Al. gets a rare no from Paula, two yesses from Randy and Simon. “You have great tone but completely off key,” Paula said.
Then there’s Atlanta’s Margaret Fowler, who hopes to overwhelm the judges. Well, the gal in the bright yellow shirt does. She claims to be 26 but looks much, um, older and the producers even place a question mark next to her name. “I have no idea what this show is anymore,” Simon says. “You look like some Easter bunny nightmare experiment. You’re not 26. Your singing is atrocious. You won’t go to the next round. You might as well own up. How old are you?”
“33.”
“I’m going to ask again. How old are you?”
“I’m 50.”
Case closed.
Now enters Jamie Lynn Ward of Reidsville, N.C., this year’s Kellie Pickler. She’s cute with a passable voice but a stop-in-your-tracks back story. “I live with my grandma and my daddy’s paralyzed,” she said. “My stepmom cheated on him so he shot her, then shot himself.” Paula gives a nuanced take on her voice (cut the nasal) and Simon and Randy look shocked because they all agree. She’s in!
The judges are in a good mood and they have good reason. Next is Jack Osborne. Oh, no, it’s actually Chris Sligh of Greenville, S.C., who says people think he’s Osborne. “I really want to make David Hasselhoff cry,” he said, referencing to the “Baywatch” star getting teary after Taylor won last year. His “Kiss From a Rose” is surprisingly good. “I like you very much,” Paula said. “You have a good sense of humor and you’re different.” He’s in, too.
It’s now day two. Victoria Watson of Gainesville, Fla. shall be known as the gal with the six-foot-long hair. She even brought in her mom with equally long hair. The two male judges (Paula had a “family obligation”) said no to her rather stiff presentation of a Josh Groban song.
Team Nichole (that’s her and her family y’all!) is part of the final portion of this hour’s audtiions. Nichole Gatzman of Muskogee, Okl. does a version of Bonnie Raitt’s “Something to Talk About.” that I thought was better than Pickler II’s audition despite her nasal problems. “You have a lot more work to do,” Randy said. Oh, well. I liked her.
Mouthy Brandy Patterson brings back “Like a Virgin.” She’s not nearly as bad as Keith Beukelaer from season two (remember him?) but they clearly have her on air for her bizarre excuse for singing poorly. “It’s the floor,” she said. So she sings on the carpet. It’s no better, of course. “I take back everything I said,” Simon joked. “You’re hopeless on the floor, even worse on the carpet. It’s absolutely going to be never.”
Onward and upward to Los Angeles tonight!
1/30: Courtney Love on Idol?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Usmagazine.com reports that Courtney Love got a call from “Idol” executive producer Nigel Lythgoe asking if she’d like to be a guest judge on the show. No word on whether she’d said yes or might be auditioning to replace Paula Abdul. This sounds like a big publicity stunt. Let’s replace Paula Abdul with someone considered less stable. Yah, that’s the ticket!
1/30: Idol pitch of the day
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I was amused by this email pitch about American Idol from a professor saying that the show has a negative effect on kids. Here it is. Judge for yourself:
NEWS SOURCE
TOPIC: Media Expert Weighs in on Implications of American Idol’s Staggering Ratings
SOURCE: Dr. Rob Williams, professor and history of media studies at Champlain College in Burlington, Vt.
Last week ratings for President Bush’s State of the Union address narrowly surpassed those garnered by FOX’s powerhouse American Idol. And the show isn’t just popular with adults: Media Life Magazine reports that AI was the most widely viewed show by viewers in the 2- to 5-year-old market.
Rob Williams, media literacy advocate and professor of history and media studies at Champlain College, argues that while competition in a real, everyday sense has proven to be healthy for myriad reasons, “shows like American Idol ultimately have a negative effect on kids. Media-constructed competition-in this case a carefully manufactured stage show for corporate profit—is something very different. So many so-called reality shows are built on the premise of competition. Viewers are often surprised when the layers of that reality are revealed—scripts, production techniques, coaching behind the scenes, etc. Ultimately, we live in a 24/7 commercial media spectacle, and American Idol is a classic example of that. The bottom line is that this is about ratings and profit maximization, and where we stand as individuals or as a culture does not matter.”
Prof. Williams can also discuss:
The importance of media reform and the need to re-regulate media policy to decentralize power away from the massive conglomerates that sell sensationalism as news;
Why and how our culture of media spectacle is internalized by children and adults alike, and how lifelong media literacy education provides the tools for intellectual self-defense;
How to talk to our kids about the media and encourage them to think critically about the media they consume.
Rob Williams holds a degree in U.S. history from Princeton University and a Ph.D. in U.S. Western and U.S. history from the University of New Mexico. Currently a professor of history and media studies at Champlain College in Burlington, Vt., Rob is also a historian, writer, and musician. He serves as a Vermont-based media literacy consultant, runs a film production company, and is board president of the Action Coalition for Media Education (www.acmecoalition.org), a nonprofit educational coalition devoted to media education, independent media production, and grassroots media reform and justice initiatives.
Permalink | |
1/30: Kat McPhee’s new CD
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
With her new CD out today, “Idol” runner up Katharine McPhee is on a major promotion tour of talk shows this week and even has a guest appearance this Thursday on “Ugly Betty.” Her new self-titled CD is a potpourri of styles, a bit of R&B, a smidgen of pop and a couple of soaring ballads.
Question #1: Will top 40 radio take to her kiss-off song “Over It”? It’s pleasant enough but let’s just say it’s no “Too Little, Too Late” or “Irreplaceable.” She sang it Monday on Leno.
Quesiton #2: Will anybody buy the CD? I predict it will open modestly, at about 40 to 50,000 copies and do about as well as Justin Guarini or Diana DeGarmo, in the 150K range. But if radio loves her singles, that could change in a heartbeat.
You can listen to the CD here on AOL.
I did a cursory first listen of the release. There are actually better songs than the single “Over It,” including several catchy top 40-style songs, including the lead song “Love Story.” The ballad “Home” has potential. “Open Toes” is a fun dance confection. “Not Ur Girl,” a song she helped cowrite, is a decent pop tune. “Do What You Do” sounds like it should have been given to Nelly Furtado or Fergie. “Better Off Alone” is a snoozer of a torch song. In fact, the second half of the CD is pretty much filler and the release as a whole feels cobbled together by committee rather than a statement on who Katharine McPhee is. But that’s what we expected, eh?
Here’s a so-so Boston Globe review.
This is the mediocre AP review
Here’s a Q&A in which she answers with impressively bland answers.
For example:
What should fans expect from this record?
It’s not a record that I’m just trying to be like, “Oh, I want to be like everybody else.” It’s something I really relate to and it’s something that is a part of me. I think when you walk away from this record you’re going to feel like you know a part of me better — the girl who was in college or the girl who was in high school versus the girl who was on “Idol.” You just get to know a little bit more which is important for a new artist.
Permalink | |
1/28: Topher hits the stage
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Topher McCain, the 28-year-old Papa Johns employee from Kennesaw who called his wife a [bleep] before the judges last Tuesday, nabbed a quick paying gig at a teen club called the Warehouse on Cobb Parkway this past Saturday night.
And yes, I was there. Without the pressure of the TV cameras and Simon Cowell staring him down and with the benefit of backing tracks, could he pull off a decent performance? On the most part, he did. He’s not quite an “American Idol”-quality vocalist but he’s a perfectly adequate karaoke singer. And though he’s no Kenny Chesney or Mick Jagger in terms of stage presence or sex appeal, he had his moments of zen.
CREDIT: Rodney Ho
I pulled up a little late as he was finishing up his karaoke version of “Footloose.” He then jumped into Dobie Gray’s “Drift Away.” Several of the teens opened their cel phones, a modern version of the old Bic lighter sway. He then sang “Walking in Memphis,” a tune he said he should have sung instead of “Footloose” during his audition. Then again, Topher’s rendition of “Footloose” certainly made for good TV, partially because it’s such an oddball choice for an audition.
After a lovely singalong with “I’ll Be” by Edwin McCain, he introduced Bon Jovi’s “It’s My Life” by saying “this reflects my 15 minutes of fame.”
He started okay but lost steam vocally partway through. Fortunately, an exuberant audience member Cameron Parker got him going again by spontaneously jumping on stage to do an air guitar version of Richie Sambora’s bridge solo, then sidled up to McCain to sing the chorus.
“That was an example,” McCain said on stage after he finished the song, “of bad karaoke.”
Parker, 15, who had jumped on stage, said he had heard about McCain’s “Idol” appearance and was curious to see if he was really that bad. “I enjoyed what he did,” Parker said. “He tried his best. He got me pumped up.”
After his 30-minute performance was up, McCain said he felt generally good about his performance. And he plans to continue singing in karaoke contests and country fairs. His next competition is at an “Idols”-style karaoke contest at Faces Lounge in Marietta Feb. 12.
As for the bleeped expletive he hurled at his wife Polya, he said he was caught offguard by the question, thus the spontaneous answer. Still, he said, “I don’t regret saying it.” Polya hasn’t talked to him in ages and his TV appearance hadn’t inspired her to reconnect with him either as of Saturday night.
We emailed Polya Sunday. She responded Monday with a curt no comment.
Permalink | |
1/27: Songwriting contest online
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
You and I will be able to vote on the song the ultimate Idol winner will sing. Naturally, a panel of judges will narrow it down to 10 songs first from whatever submissions they get from aspiring songwriters. Here’s the story
Once the top 10 songs submitted by songwriters are chosen, “Idol” viewers will get to decide which is performed by the singers on the show in its final round, said executive producer Nigel Lythgoe.
“It’s going to be offered to America to decide what should be the ‘Idol’ song this year,” Mr. Lythgoe said in an interview with TelevisionWeek Publisher Chuck Ross for TVWeek.com’s Backlot Talk podcast feature.
This is a great added feature. We’ll definitely have fun with this one!
And as usual, here are the insights of exex producer Nigel Lythgoe in TVWeek as Chuck Ross talks to him about various contestants from this week’s auditions. It’s a fun read for you true addicts out there.
Permalink | |
1/27: Ace Young update
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Credit: Getty Images
Did you like Ace Young? He is one of the few finalists from this past year without a real record contract but he did help co-write Chris Daughtry’s big hit “It’s Not Over.”
Here’s an update on Ace’s life on mtv.com. I purposely linked to the html version because the regular version of mtv.com is a ridiculous mess packed with annoying videos and visuals that makes the regular cable network seems like PBS in comparison.
Permalink | |
1/26: So you think you can dance auditions
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“So You Think You Can Dance,” the not-as-popular summer cousin of “American Idol,” is hitting Atlanta for auditions on April 5 at the Fox Theatre. Casting is open to persons between the ages of 18 and 30 at the time of the audition who are either U.S. citizens, permanent residents of the U.S., or possess a current legal visa allowing them to seek employment in the U.S. without restriction as to employer. The show, by the way, is created by the same folks who do “American Idol.” More info at fox.com/dance
Speaking of dancing, those “Dancing with the Stars” folks (including Drew Lachey and Lisa Renna) are at the Gwinnett Arena tonight. I have a friend’s going-away party to go to tonight so I’m going to have to skip that show, but if anybody goes, certainly tell us how it went.
Permalink | |
1/26: Did you love Jonathan & Kenneth?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Jimmy Kimmel, whose show is not seen in Atlanta, brought Jonathan & Kenneth from the Seattle auditions to the Bob Hope celebrity golf classic, to mingle with the likes of Ray Romano, Huey Lewis, Don Cheadle and George Lopez. Even Taylor HIcks came by to give them support at the 1:50 point of the the video on youtube. Decatur’s Chris Tucker looks mystified while he sings “God Bless America” with them at 4:05.
Access Hollywood.
Here’s another video of Kenneth & Jonathan from Access Hollywood
Finally, here’s a story about Rosie O’Donnell, who harangued against the treatment of the pair last week on “the View,” giving the two guys a free trip to Disney World.
And yes, as noted below, where’s Nick Zitzman??? We miss him!
Permalink | |
1/25: Now you gotta cut loose…
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
(From Topher’s myspace page.)
Topher McCain, a 28-year-old Papa John’s employee from Kennesaw, is not one of those bitter “American Idol” contestants who felt he was humiliated on TV. No, the Paula Abdul fan enjoyed his appearance Tuesday during the Memphis auditions before 31 million viewers.
“I give kudos to ‘American Idol,’ ” he told me today. “They showed me as kind of punchy when I made those comments about my wife, but overall, they portrayed me as a generally classy nice guy gentleman.”
Indeed, he probably solidified his airtime by calling his wife the b-word, which was kindly bleeped out by “Idol” producers but made Simon and Co. laugh.
On camera during Tuesday’s episode, McCain said his wife cheated on him, then decided to leave him. (He said they are currently separated, not divorced.) If she wanted him back after he became the Idol, he wouldn’t take her because he has a support system that loves him and his singing.
McCain has not heard from his wife since the show aired. (I’m trying to track her down to get her side of the story.)
In retrospect, he said he probably shouldn’t have sung “Footloose,” a 1984 party tune by Kenny Loggins he used from the very beginning of the “Idol” auditions. “It had been my good luck song,” he said.
He had to go through three rounds before facing Randy, Paula and Simon. In fact, he had to go to Memphis twice: the first three rounds before show producers, then a month later to meet the three big judges.
The judges told him he sounded too karaoke. “I’m tempted to ask if you sang that the night before your wife left,” Simon said. Ouch.
He added that Topher sounded like a guy who was drunk at a wedding and was about to fall off a stage. McCain took the critique well, even joking afterwards that that was what he was going to do.
His second choice might have been more appropriate for the audition location: Marc Cohn’s “Walking in Memphis.”
“That’s a song I do in karaoke,” McCain said. “Also, when I do benefit concerts.” So does he do “Footloose” drunk? “I do that quite sober,” he said. “When I get drunk, I sing ‘God Bless the Broken Road.’ “
His 15 seconds of fame got him a gig at a teen club this Saturday at 9 p.m. at the Warehouse on Cobb Parkway. He’ll do 30 minutes of country and pop hits with backing tracks.
Joe Polo, who runs Ponier Music (the music store that the club is part of), said he was actually impressed with McCain and his cohones.
“I’ve seen way worse,” Polo said. “I was on his side. When I found out he was from Kennesaw, I wanted to have him show us what he can do. He chased his dream. He went for it. He went into the belly of the beast!” As a musician, in fact, he was “jealous” that McCain was able to get the opportunity to sing before millions.
Permalink | |
1/25: I know it’s crazy, but it’s true
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Idol takes a big slice into New York, which has not had much success in generating big talent. Constantine has lived there. Last year, Chicken Little was from Long Island. But metro New York hasn’t done as well as, say, Atlanta or Birmingham even.
This time around, there’s clearly some talent and the show, while flabby as two hours can be, manages to be entertaining enough. We actually see 10 singers (out of 35) that make it to Hollywood. Of those ten, Porcelana is the most interesting, but best friend Antonella is my favorite.
Guest judge alert: Carole Bayer Sager. Clearly, Paula didn’t want to be anywhere near her so they have Randy in between as the cushion. Singer-songwriter Sager (“A Groovy Kind of Love,” “Don’t Cry Out Loud”) resembles Joan Collins!
Nyawker Ian, clearly on TV for the sake of being on TV (he’s already been on “So You Think You Can Dance,”) does a horrible version of “Gloria” and camps up his so-called post-rejection “outrage.” “I’m bored of you,” Simon intoned. And so are we. Bad start for “American Idol”!
Back story of the day comes in early: Sarah Burgess lies to her unsupportive dad to be here, traveling all the way from Ohio. She cries. Reality-show points! She’s cute and she’s actually good, good enough to make it through. “She touched me,” Paula said. “Dad, I can do this!” she says to the camera. “Don’t be mad,” she tells him. “I’m glad,” he said. Awwww….
Then there’s “Big Fat Greek Wedding” gal Fania Tsakalakos and possibly the worst version of Toto’s “Africa” since Toto’s version of “Africa” came out. Yeek!
Ashanti Johnson, who has been to Hollywood twice before but hasn’t gotten far enough to disqualify herself, does a rather fluttery version of “Lovin’ You.” She’s not bad but I don’t like her. She is eliminated this time around. “I have fought so hard for this,” she said. “I have worked harder than anybody.” She’s eloquent, but the begging fails. She reeks of desperation. Even Paula is stone-coldhearted. Good TV, though.
Then it’s best friends, giving the Idol producers an excuse to get them on the beach in bikinis for “back story.” Amanda Coluccio goes first with “Crazy.” It’s okay. “Very generic,” Simon said. But she goes through with reservaitons. Antonella Barba. She’s not trained but is much better. “You’re good and have a great look,” Sager said. She’s through too!
Clifton Biddle thinks he’s Chris Daughtry doing ZZTop’s “Tush” (stamping including) but instead he gets the booted out on his you know what. Then he plays a lovely harmonica but this is a singing competition, right?
Kia Thornton is a keeper with a little Aretha. She’s not quite at Fantasia level but worthy of going to Hollywood. “You don’ t need to oversing,” Sayer said and I agree. Still, the emotional Kia is on her way!
On day two, with Simon “hung over” and absent, a confident Jenry Bejarano is an adopted 16 year old of a loving Bolivian family and sings like a dream. Paula is feeling it and he’s “easy on the eyes.” And he’s through, no doubt.
Nakia Claiborne has spirit and a bold voice with “Dancin’ in the Street.” She makes Mandisa seem sedate in comparison. Then she sings a second song “Dreamin’” and seems really flat. It’s in fact awful. Next. I actually feel bad for her because she seemed so sincere and sweet.
Sarah Goldberg is a bit off kilter. She admits she’s not a singer. “I’m tone deaf,” she said. “Even if I don’t sing, I can be the next American Idol. I’ve never sung before so you can teach me how to sing.” Wh-wh-what? Huh? She needs… something. At least she didn’t get a ticket to Hollywood. Phew!
After the break: why was there a 47 year old trying out singing “New York New York”???
Jori Steinberg is adorable with a modest history (She’s actually met politicans from Canada! That’s a back story?) “Paced it well,” Simon said. “Presence is great,” Paula said. I’m not a huge fan of the song but she’s got talent.
Then there’s a female version of Rocky: Porcelana Patino. She’s a sexy tenor with attitude to spare. “You are unique” Bayer-Sager said. She’s in! We won’t forget her. And she hugs it out with the judges.
Christopher Henry is the king of cabaret, which is clearly not going to get past the judges. “You should be singing in a dress and stillettos,” Simon said. And finally: Simon and Paula duke it out! She wants to give Chris constructive advice and Simon just wants him to leave.
Rachel Zevita is a chameleon with an opera background. She does three very different styles of song but remains intriguing. “You’re all coming to Hollywood,” Simon cracks. She gets all cocky: “The South has a lockdown. This year, it’s New York. We need some life, some color. It’s me!” We’ll see about that.
Chris Richardson does a little Donny Hathaway and evokes a bit of Elliott Yamin. He clearly has potential. “You’re very special,” Paula said. “I say yes.” And the rest do, too.
Nicholas Pedro, who quit last year during the Hollywood round after he forgot lyrics, wants redemption with “Fly Me to the Moon.” He’s got a great voice and grabs Paula’s heart as well as everybody else’s, too. “You just made it back!” Simon said.
A very nervous Isadora (Julie?) Furman tanks and ends New York with a thud of monstrous proportions.
Permalink | |
1/24: Daughtry No. 1 & in concert in ATL
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Chris Daughtry’s new CD, in its ninth week, reached No. 1. That’s highly unusual. Most CDs nowadays debut at No. 1 and drop from there. He debuted at No. 2 and has hovered near the top ever since. He sold 65K, up to 1.29 mil total. That’s not a terribly inpressive no. of copies sold but this January, sales have been sloth like overall. His single “It’s Not Over” is at No. 12 and should be in the top 10 in a matter of days.
Daughtry (that’s his band name) will be at the Loft in MIdtown April 6 at 9 p.m. (doors open at 8 p.m.) Tickets go on sale Feb. 2 at noon. It should sell out fast because only about 600 people can fit in the Loft. It’s $20 general admission. I wouldn’t be surprised if the promoters moved him to Center Stage, which fits 1,000. A second date is possible, too, depending on demand. More info here.
Carrie Underwood sold another 33K and moved back to No. 9 and is up to 4.76 million. Her fourth single “Wasted” is at No. 26.
Kellie Pickler, after doing an appearance on “The View,” rebounded with 14K sold (up from 9k) and now has sold 387k total. Her single “Red High Heels” is at No. 14 but it’s losing steam, according to www.allaccess.com. She’s opening for Brad Paisley and will be at HiFi Buys Amphitheater August 4.
Fantasia is hangin’ in there, up to 66 from 68, with 12K sold, up from 11K. She’s up to 254K. Her song “Hood Boy” is stalling out at No. 22 on the urban chart.
Ruben sold another 3,000, edging up to 196K. His single “Change Me” drops to No. 3 on the urban AC chart.
Clay sold 1,900 and has reached 496K.
All Billboard Top 200 numbers courtesy of Idol Chatter.
Bucky Covington has a single at No. 48 called “A Different World.”
Permalink | |
1/24: Justin on TV Guide
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
First season co-host Brian Dunkleman, who left after season one in a bit of a huff, decided to kiss and make up with “American Idol” by doing voiceovers for the syndicated “Idol Rewind” show, which revises season one.
So why not Justin Guarini, the runner up in 2002 who became the butt of jokes after his first album bombed and more or less disappeared after he complained publicly of his treatment by RCA in 2003. He has joined TV Guide’s “Idol Tonight” show. Hey, it’s a paycheck!
TV GUIDE CHANNEL GREENLIGHTS POPULAR ŒIDOL* SERIES ŒIDOL TONIGHT* FOR A SECOND SEASON AND SIGNS FORMER AMERICAN IDOL FINALIST JUSTIN GUARINI AS ON-AIR CORRESPONDENT
First Runner-Up On American Idol Season One Joins Co-Hosts Former Season Three ŒIdol* Finalist Kimberly Caldwell And Former ŒPopstars* Winner Rosanna Tavarez As They Cover The Nation*s #1 Rated Show
LOS ANGELES * (January 24, 2007) * The television phenomenon and viewer frenzy of American Idol are back. TV Guide Channel®, a leading entertainment network providing original programming to 80 million homes, announced today that it has green-lit a second season of IDOL TONIGHT, the exclusive live pre-show for American Idol which will air on Wednesdays beginning in March. Additionally, TV Guide Channel announced that American Idol season one runner-up Justin Guarini will join the cast of IDOL TONIGHT as a correspondent, sharing the spotlight with the networks resident *Idol experts Kimberly Caldwell (former American Idol finalist) and Rosanna Tavarez (winner of Popstars).
By renewing IDOL TONIGHT for a second season, TV Guide Channel continues to provide our viewers with the most comprehensive coverage of the great ŒAmerican Idol,* said Ryan OHara, President of TV Guide Channel. *This season, we are excited to have former ŒIdol runner-up Justin Guarini on board as a correspondent. We look forward to his commentary and expertise on all of the excitement for the current ŒIdol* season.
Beginning in March, 2007, IDOL TONIGHT will premiere on TV Guide Channel, live from Television City studios at the doorstep of American Idol. Capturing all of the excitement, anticipation and energy from thousands of auditioners who show up each season for a shot at stardom, the show will feature interviews with former American Idol finalists, industry insiders, fashion stylists, vocal coaches and more. Then, its up to America to decide who will become the next *American Idol. Stay tuned for more details and programming information on TV Guide Channel*s in-depth live red carpet-finale event.
Permalink | |
1/23: Welcome to the South!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I’m going to be in class tonight so I’ll be blogging late on tonight’s Memphis auditions. But feel free to start commenting while the show is going on.
In the interim, here’s a fascinating overview of how the auditions actually work from the man who oversees www.votefortheworst.com. We learn that the song montages from each city aren’t even taped in front of Randy, Simon and Paula, but was done earlier in the weeklong process.
While Randy told me they see 400 people over two days (that does seem excessive), this writer says it’s more like 100 per city. (Maybe in Randy’s mind, it feels like 400.)
It’s interesting that Fox will sometimes air a different audition that Simon & Co. didn’t even see, that they’ll create events that didn’t really happen or shape the editing to make someone seem nicer than they really are. (Um… Katharine McPhee?). Some finalists claim Kellie PIckler kept forgetting words in Hollywood yet because of her back story, she got through.
Permalink | |
1/23: Weekly gabfest w/Idol exec producer
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
TV Week, like last season, does an exclusive interview each week with one of the Idol executive producers. This season, they also add a transcript so you can just read it over. Here’s the link to last week’s talk with Ken Warwick.
Here’s his take on the songwriting competition:
Chuck Ross (of TV Week): I’ve been reading on various fan things and I think in other publications that you guys might do a competition for the last song. Do you think that’s actually going to happen?
Mr. Warwick: We’re looking into it at the moment. It will happen, I think. The thing is that we sit around at the end, two or three weeks before the finale, and we listen to the songs that the record company sends us, and invariably go, “Yeah, it’s alright. But it’ll be a No. 1. Of course it will. But it’s not the best song we’ve ever heard.”
So this year we’re actually throwing the competition open to the public to sit down, compose a song, write it, send us in a demo. I think a panel from the record company will actually sit down and listen to the mass that come in and they’ll give us a handful of the best songs, and when we get down to near the end of the series, we’ll probably do a show where … we’ll probably get some of the old Idols to sing them and then America will judge and pick the song from there. So in the end, not only do they pick the singer and the Idol, they pick the song too.”
Permalink | |
1/23: More minutes for Idol?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Is Fox tempted to kill the golden goose? The show will certainly run at least 45 hours this season for the third time.
TV Week counted the minutes.
Season one: 1,350 minutes (22.5 hours)
Season two: 2,496 minutes (41 hours)
Season three: 2,701 minutes (45-plus hours)
Season four: 2,440 (40 plus hours)
Season five, 2,714 minutes (45-plus hours)
“Last year we all sat down and came up with 45 hours, which we didn’t feel abused the show,” said Preston Beckman, executive VP for strategic program planning at Fox. “This year we feel it will be at least 45, but it may be marginally longer.”
1/22: Special Olympics no beef with Idol
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Jonathan Jayne, who was featured extensively on Seattle auditions last week, apparently was an active participant in the Special Olympics. That in and of itself fueled criticism that “Idol” is picking on the mentally challenged. Jayne, who recently appeared on the Jimmy Kimmel show, has apparently reveled in the attention. And the Special Olympics just released a press release supporting him and the show:
Special Olympics Washington Athlete Auditions for ‘American Idol’
Monday January 22, 2:45 pm ET
SEATTLE, Jan. 22 /PRNewswire/ — Special Olympics Washington (SOWA) applauds the efforts of Jonathan Jayne for his recent audition on the reality program “American Idol.” Jayne is a longtime SOWA athlete who competes in multiple sports with the City of Renton Parks and Recreation program.
The vision of Special Olympics is to help bring persons with intellectual disabilities into the larger society under conditions whereby they are accepted, respected and given the chance to become useful and productive citizens. “We hope that everyone can learn to be more accepting and inclusive of persons with different abilities,” said Jill Ward, Public Relations Director for Special Olympics Washington. “Jonathan is a shining example of an athlete who is able to apply himself both on and off the field of competition. We wish him well in the pursuit of all his goals.”
1/20: Chicken Little to rap on Paris’ CD
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
How about this for strange? Geeky teen Kevin Covais, the 11th place finisher from this year’s “Idol,” is going to rap on Fayetteville resident Paris Bennett’s CD, according to this story.
“What people don’t know is that he can rap,” Bennett told mtv.com of the diminutive, bespectacled Covais in her squeaky speaking voice. “He loves Kanye West. He’d rap whole songs. He used to freestyle backstage. I was like, ‘I have to do that on my album.’ ” The title? “Let Me Rap.”
I’m not sure this is a good idea but I guess we’ll have to hear the result.
Paris shot a video for her first single “Ordinary Love” in Minneapolis. Her CD, to be dubbed “Princess P’ (Ryan Seacrest’s nickname for her) is due out in March on an indie label owned by one of her family members.
Permalink | |
1/19: Contestant myspace pages
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
A blogger dubbed “Death By Camera” earlier this week decided to do some pseudo-detective work and seek out as many myspace pages of Idol contestants featured during the Seattle and Minneapolis auditions.
Here’s the link to Minneapolis
And here’s the link to Seattle
The guy is not even an “Idol” fan but his commentary is impressively snarky.
Permalink | |
1/19: Diana Ross on Idol
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I apologize for posting the same item twice last night. Technical glitch there. Anyway, given the flood of “Idol” related news, I forgot to mention that Diana Ross is a likely mentor on one of the upcoming shows. She said she was going to do the show on David Letterman earlier this week to coincide with a new album and tour in March.
She also said she hadn’t yet seen “Dreamgirls,” a movie that is loosely based on the Supremes. “Yes, I’ve heard a lot about it,” she told David. “I’m going to see it with my lawyers.”
Here’s a link to a story about it..
1/18: The numbers keep on coming
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Last year, nearly 14 percent of the first-day “Idol” audience went away on day two, as viewership numbers dropped from 35.5 million to 31.6 million.
This year? The drop was more like one percent. Nearly 37 million watched the Seattle disaster audition episode Wednesday night, virtually the same as day one. Incredible. All the buzz that Seattle was going to be so strange and bizarre worked out perfectly for Fox.
No wonder rival NBC entertainment president Kevin Reilly dubbed it “The Death Star.” And CBS entertainment president Nina Tassler this morning used the same phrase (giving Reilly credit) to TV critics here in Pasadena. “It’s a force to be reckoned with,” she said, in a true case of understatement.
At least the CBS shows “NCIS” and “Criminal Minds” have held up well compared to the other network shows. (ABC’s new shows “Knights of Prosperity” and “In Case of Emergency” were barely watched last night, for instance.) “They’re not Idol proof, but Idol resistant,” said Kelly Kahl, senior VP of programming for CBS……
Permalink | |
1/18: Seattle and bust
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I was at a party sponsored by NBC and met a few folks from “Heroes” and “The Office.” But it also meant I missed more than half of the Seattle auditions, catching the last 45 minutes. (I’ll have to go and check it out on my DVR when I get back home Sunday.)
What little I did see was plenty painful and surreal. The Taylor Hicks lookalike could be a pure put on. He was too strange to be real! Big Red took the cake, of course, with one of the worst auditons I’ve seen in ages. Then they brought two geeks/nerds together just like last year including poor Jonathan, who makes Scott Savol look like George Clooney in comparison.
My favorite out of some thin gruel was Jordin, the 16 year old who did a sweet version of “Because You Loved Me.” A little too sweet for Simon but she has a shot at the top 12, easily. I was surprised 6 foot 4 Anna Kearns was one of the mere eight who made it to Hollywood. They must have been desperate. She just struck me as loud!
Permalink | |
1/17: Idol ratings huge
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Early Nielsen estimates are in and “Idol” has outdone itself again. Last night, about 37 million people checked out the Minneapolis auditions, the most of any debut episode for “Idol” in its six seasons. Last year, the show’s first audition episode pulled in 35.5 million.
It’s the biggest show of the year on TV since the fall and indicates that “Idol” could top last season though it’s too early to say if that will occur. Ratings will fall off until the finale but may remain over 30 million for awhile. That makes it far and above the most popular series. In comparison, top shows such as “Desperate Housewives,’ “CSI” and “Grey’s Anatomy” currently draw around 22 to 23 million a week.
The biggest “Idol” show of all time remains season two finale with Ruben and Clay at 38.1 million. But that was a minor cheat because it only included the second hour. The first hour of that season was considered a “separate” wrap-up or warmup show by Fox and drew 30.4 million. Averaged out, the two hours were 34 million or so. In other seasons, the entire two hour finales were averaged out, creating lower numbers.
1/15: Hudson wins Golden Globe
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
No surprise but former “Idol” finalist Jennifer Hudson pulled in a supporting actress Golden Globe award for “Dreamgirls.”
“I have always dreamed but never ever this big. Ever!”: Hudson said in a tearful speech. “This goes far beyond anything I could have ever imagined. You wouldn’t believe how much this has done for my confidence!”
Mr. Oscar, he is yours next!
1/12: Following Paula
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I’m at the Television Critics Association tour, where the TV networks present their new programming. The Bravo network announced just moments ago that it’s going to introduce a new show later this year in which they follow around “Idol” judge Paula Abdul. Given her moodiness, this could potentially be entertaining. (And for fans of Tim Gunn, he will be doing a spinoff show called “Tim Gunn’s Guide to Style” while “Queer Eye” will be retired this summer.)
And speaking of Paula, tmz.com caught her wacky appearance today on a Seattle Fox affiliate. Abdul’s rep said she had trouble hearing what was going on, adding to the confusion. She did look a little, um, off, but maybe it was too much coffee?
Meanwhile, Billboard has an interview with Carrie. If you’re a big fan, check it out but not much there except Carrie plans to work on her second album this year and expects to stick with country. No shocker there.
And, again no shocker here, but Simon Cowell hates Bob Dylan
1/12: Social networking arrives!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Powers That Be at ajc.com are trying an experiment by moving my blog to a social networking page so users can personalize their identities as regular users of the Idol blog. Naturally, if you don’t want to create your own myspace-like pages, you’re not required to.
This is an experiment so don’t be too rough on us if you don’t like it. Check it out, give us feedback, tell us the good, the bad and the ugly. Thanks!
View my profile
Customize your news
Create your profile
1/12: Daughtry video out
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
AOL has the new Chris Daughtry video for his hot single “It’s Not Over.”
1/11: Kelly on Reba, Kat on Betty, Kellie on View
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Kelly Clarkson is making her first acting gig since “From Justin to Kelly” (at least that I can recall) on “Reba” this Sunday. I just got an email from the CW publicity department but it provides zero details on what Kelly will be doing. I’ll update this blog item later if I can get more details. Obviously, Kelly has focused on her music career up to this point. She is scheduled to have her third studio album out sometime later this year.
Also, Variety reports that Ugly Betty will feature a cameo by Katharine McPhee, playing herself, on Feb. 1, two days after her CD is scheduled to come out.
And the Charlotte Observer notes that Kellie Pickler will be a guest hostess on “The View” again on January 18 and 19.
1/11: Stats from Fox
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Here are some stats the Fox publicity crew sent us writers this week:
Average ratings each year for American Idol (I’m not clear how these work out in relation to the Monday shows)
Season one Tuesday shows: 12.1 million (among 18-49 year olds, 17% of those watching TV saw it)
Season one Wednesday shows: 13.6 million (18 share, 18-49)
Season two Tuesday shows: 21.6 million (26 share, 18-49)
Season two Wednesday shows: 21.9 million (25 share, 18-49)
Season three Tuesday shows: 25.7 million (29 share (18-49)
Season three Wednesday shows: 24.3 million (27 share 18-49)
Season four Tuesday shows: 27.3 million (30 share 18-49)
Season four Wednesday shows: 26.1 million (27 share, 18-49)
Season five Tuesday shows: 31 million (32 share, 18-49)
Season five Wednesday shows: 30 million (30 share, 18-49)
SOURCE: Nielsen SoundScan
No. of viewers who tuned in to the premiere: total viewers
Season one, June 11, 2002: 9.9 million
Season two, Jan. 21, 2003: 26.5 million
Season three, January 19, 2004: 29 million
Season four, January 18, 2005: 33.6 million
Season five, January 17, 2006: 35.5 million
No. of viewers who tuned in to the final — total viewers
Season one — Sept. 4, 2002: 23 million
Season two — May 21, 2003: 38.1 million
Season three — May 26, 2004: 28.8 million
Season four — May 25, 2005: 30.3 million
Season five — May 24, 2006: 36.4 million
Number of votes received each year (Voters can and do stuff the ballot.)
Season one: 110 million calls
Season two: 240 million
Season three: 360 million
Season four: 500 million
Season five: 580 million
SOURCE: American Idol
Permalink | |
1/11: Paula and Simon
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The New York Post snagged a one-on-one with Paula Abdul. It seemed far more interesting than the Randy Jackson interview I partook in.
In it, she talks about her complicated relationship with Simon and how he surprisingly supported her during the whole Corey Clark brouhaha. She also agrees with Ryan Seacrest’s comments in EW that Simon is crankier than ever, partly because he’s pulled himself in so many different directions.
“It’s chemistry that you can’t duplicate or describe,” Abdul told the Post. “There are times when we get along famously and then there are those times when we just don’t. And on those days I just close my dressing room door.” Cowell - who produces several other talent shows here and stars in his own version of “Idol,” called “X Factor,” in England - is spreading himself thin these days, she says.
“There are days when he wakes up on the wrong side of the bed … or something that’s happening in England,” she says.
The story also notes that she’s working on a live-action movie version of those Bratz dolls.
Permalink | |
1/11: Dreamgirls No. 1 soundtrack
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Sales in general dropped another 34% or so this week as we hit the dog days of January.
The “Dreamgirls” soundtrack, at about 69,000 in sales, was No. 1 this week, according to Nielsen SoundScan tracking. That is the lowest no. of sales for a No. 1 CD in SoundScan history (which goes back to 1991). But hey, it’s notable since Jennifer Hudson is on it. Total sales: 452K
No. 3 is Chris Daughtry, up from 11, with 56K sold, down 27% from a week earlier. He’s now up to nearly 1.2 million copies sold and his single “It’s Not Over” is still going strong on the rock and pop charts.
Carrie moved up to 15 from 19 with 39K and 4.7 million total. She’ll hit 5 million by March at her current pace and the People’s Choice Award winnings should help at least this week.
Taylor slipped another 51% to just 19K sold and 559K total. He’s down to 47.
Fantasia held at 66, moving another 14K and is up to 231K. Her single “Hood Boy” is still moving up but she’s going to need some serious radio traction to make it to gold.
Kellie sold 10,600 and is up to 363K. She has a solid chance of making it to 500K. She’s ranked at 83, up from 84.
Off the charts is Ruben at 3,400 moved and 190K total and Clay selling 3,100, with 492K sold.
1/10: Carrie, Idol win People’s Choice Awards
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
No surprise that American Idol won Favorite Competition/Reality Show while Carrie Underwood beat Faith Hill (again) for Favorite Female Singer. Carrie’s growing mantle of awards also included Best Country Song with “Before He Cheats.”
Permalink | |
1/10: Simon and Idol Mad Libs
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Once a year, I attend a Los Angeles shindig organized by the Television Critics Association. The networks show off their new shows (and some of their old ones) in hopes we write nice things about them. Or in the case of the smaller networks, anything about them. I spent the morning flying to the West Coast and I forgot to post something fresh this morning. My apologies!
Anyway, I couldn’t avoid American Idol. In the gift shop, they were selling - get this - American Idol Mad Libs. I almost bought it but moved on. Mad Libs were sure __ (adjective) when we were 10 years old, eh?
On the airplane, Delta aired “Simon Cowell: True Hollywood Story.” So I started jotting notes. Why not? I hadn’t seen it before.
His dad tried to get him into construction. But he got a job as a runner at a TV studio earning $30 a week, then the mailroom at EMI Records and clawed his way up. In 1982, he joined a label and just as he signed up his first artist Sinitta (who became his girlfriend), the owner shut it down. He convinced the guy to give him $7,500 and he ended up getting her a top 2 single “So Macho.” Then she became a star with a song called “Toy Boy” ; (though not in the States. I;ve never heard of her!).
In 1989, the label he built up was bought out and the big company went bust. “When it went down, I went down,” Cowell said, “I owed the bank millions of dollars. I didn’t have a job.”
His mom Julie Cowell allowed him to move back to his parents’ house. Two years later, he joined BMG Records in the A&R department. He convinced the World Wrestling Federation to release successful records. He did soundtracks for the Teletubbies and the Power Rangers. He jumped to RCA. People thought he was insane for the pure cheesiness of it all. He even got two actors to sing “Unchained Melody,” which went No. 1 for seven weeks. No wonder that’s one of his favorite songs of all time!
He missed out on signing the Spice Girls. Instead, he found an Irish boy group Westlife, which he said sold 50 milion records and had 14 no. 1 singles. Obviously, that is yet another act that didn’t make any impact stateside.
Then he was asked to join a show called Pop Stars to be a judge. At first, he felt uncomfortable and backed out. He called a meeting with Simon Fuller producing a series of their own. They tweaked the process and created “:op Idol.” He still resisted being a judge but took on the challenge. Pete Waterman, his protégé, was supposed to be the nasty one and Simon expected to be the expert. It October 6, 2001, it debuted and was an instant hit. Simon became an instant star. He was dubbed “Mr. Nasty.”
Fox purchased the show and asked for Simon to do the same thing there. He was, well, reluctant again. In the spring of 2002, Simon said working with Paula at first was like “a dog and a cat together and shaking them in a box.” Ryan Seacrest said he didn’t think Simon would work.
When Simon started ripping into contestants, Paula and Randy were in shock. “Simon had me in tears and I felt so bad for these kids,” Paula said. “I became violently ill.”
Simon said he thought he’d be kicked out in three weeks. But he won fans — lots of them. “I try to say what people are thinking.”
In 2003, Simon renewed his contract for 3 more years at $150,000 per episode. He decided to go into TV production. His first show: Cupid. But the dating show died after 11 episodes. Over on the UK, he launched “X Factor” in 2004 and dwarfed “Pop Ido1.” In “X Factor,” the judges competed for talent.
Simon Fuller, who created Idol, sued Simon Cowell, saying he ripped off his show. They ultimately settled out of court and he gave Fuller an ownership cut of “X Factor.”
In 2005, he signed on to another five years for $30 million a year. He added “American Inventor” to his resume, then “America’s Got Talent.” He also introduced the pop classical musical act Il Divo.
1/9: Randy Jackson talks
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Randy Jackson spoke to the print media Monday. I didn’t expect much from him and he didn’t really break any news. I would have preferred to hear from the executive producers or Simon (or even Paula), but this is who was available so we’ll take what we can get. I did manage to be the first one in line and asked the first question about guest judges. There were about 20 reporters who got to ask a question and I’m not even sure everyone in queue got through.
Though Randy is now entering season six of the insanely popular show, he said he’s not sick of it at all. “The quest never ends for us,” he said. “We’re always hopeful. This season maybe we’ll find the next Sinatra or next huge whatever. We’re always curious and interested.”
Here are excerpts from the hour-long Q&A.
Q: Simon has complained about the guest judges. [This year includes Jewel, Olivia Newton-John and songwriter Carole Bayer Sager]. Do you mind them or could you live without them?
Jackson: I think I could live without them. Look — the show works because it’s the three of us. I don’t necessarily think we need guest judges. When people come into our arena, it’s often a little off-putting. It’s hard for them. It’s almost like saying I can be a pitcher and win the Cy Young Award. I don’t know if I could pitch Little League!
Q: Every year, they make a few tweaks on the show. Any changes?
Jackson: I’m going to wear more yellowand lime green in honor of Gnarls Barkley… Seriously, I think the formula is pretty much what it is. You’ll see a few wrinkles but I can’t tell you what they are.
Q: The success of the show continues to surprise people. It keeps getting bigger and better. How long will it continue? What will cause the show not to be successful?
Jackson: I think it’s the greatest music show ever. I know that me, Simon and Paula don’t think about the ratings. We just go out and do what we do… I think the show can continue to be successful as long as we find great talent… “American Idol” is the search for the next superstar, not for the next ratings boost for me.
Q: Have you had a chance to see [season three finalist] Jennifer Hudson since the “Dreamgirls” thing? Jackson: I went to the premiere. I’ve talked to her quite a few times.
Q: She still asking for advice?
Jackson: No, but she did thank me for making her my wildcard pick. [That year, the judges each got to pick a finalist for the top 12.] I just say to her, ‘Make sure you make the right record.’ That’s what it’s all about. We talk about it on the show and get flak. It’s all about great songs on the show and great songs after the show.
Q: Are there songs you’re sick of hearing?
Jackson: Yah! There are a lot of songs we’re sick of during the auditions. We’ve mentioned Etta James’ “At Last.” People torture that. There’s Alicia Keys’ “Fallen.” People just butcher that. I have not heaqrd anyone yet sing a Mariah Carey song and do it justice.
Q: In Entertainment Weekly, you said you want Mariah on the show. Will she be part of the show to mentor the kids and sing on the show?
Jackson: I don’t know. I’ve been thinking about it. We’ve tossed it around. She’d be great. She and Whitney and Celine are the big three divas.
Q: Have you talked to her about it?
Jackson: I mentioned it to her. We’ll see. You’ll have to stay tuned on that.
Q: Is she open to it.
Jackson: Definitely open to it.
Q: When it comes to the song the finalists sing, do they have to be in your opinion swelling, sentimental ballads?
Jackson: With words like ‘blessed’ and ‘love’ and ‘Thank God, without you I wouldn’t be alive.’ Stuff like that?
Q: Yes.
Jackson: Not necessarily. Listen. It’s a very emotional competition. I think they’re trying to find a song that takes you through the journey. It encapsulates the emotion of the season.
Q: How come Los Angeles and New York tend not to bring in as many quality contestants?
Jackson: People from the South and the Midwest are not as pretentious as other cities… In Los Angeles and New York, they watch MTV, BET, they copy what they see. When you look for genuine originality and trying to find someone who is honestly talented, you see that more in the South or the Midwest.
Q: During promos, Simon says a Southerner will win. Do you agree?
Jackson: He’s just giving a soundbite to whet our appetites. That’s just his view of it. I don’t know. I’m not going to say it’s a Southerner yet but there were definitely good Southerners. I represent the South. I have to keep it real!
Q: Have you heard [Fayetteville resident and season five finalist] Paris Bennett’s new single? What do you think of her future?
Jackson: I think she’s got a bright future. Paris was a very talented girl on the show. She needed a little more seasoning, just a little more experience for me. I haven’t heard the record but I wish her well.
Q: If you could have been in charge, is there any winner you would have changed?
Jackson: I think the public has gotten it right every time. I believe in America!
1/9: Mark your calendars!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Here’s the Idol schedule from the PR folks. If we read this right, Hollywood rounds are being scrunched into two days instead of the usual four while the audition episodes have been stretched an extra week. As noted by other observers, ratings for the Hollywood eps tend to be lower than the auditons so perhaps Idol thinks more audtions will goose ratings. I enjoy the Hollywood rounds personally and would hate to see them crunched this much but hey, this ain’t my call!
]THE NO. 1 SHOW OF LAST SEASON, RETURNS JANUARY 16 AND 17 ON FOX
AMERICAN IDOL, television’s No. 1 show for the past three seasons, returns with a two-night, four-hour premiere featuring outrageous new auditions and unbelievable talent. The search for the next singing superstar begins Tuesday, Jan. 16 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX with auditions from Minneapolis and Wednesday, Jan. 17 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) with auditions from Seattle.
The search continues in upcoming weeks as AMERICAN IDOL travels to Los Angeles, San Antonio, Birmingham, Memphis and New York City. Episodes featuring the audition cities will air on four consecutive Tuesdays: Jan. 16 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) from Minneapolis, MN; Jan. 23 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) from Memphis, TN; Jan. 30 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) from Birmingham, AL; and Feb. 6 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) from Los Angeles, CA; and three Wednesdays: Jan. 17 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) from Seattle, WA; Jan. 24 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) from New York City, NY; and Jan. 31 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) from San Antonio, TX. For viewers craving still more of this season’s unforgettable auditions, a special “Rest of the Best” show will air Wednesday, Feb. 7 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX.
The lucky few who get the judge’s approval move on to the Hollywood Round, which will air Tuesday, Feb. 13 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) and Wednesday, Feb. 14 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT). On Wednesday, Feb. 14, the Top 24 semifinalists - 12 males and 12 females - will be announced.
Then it will be up to America to decide who moves forward in the competition. The first performance show featuring the Top 12 male singers will air Tuesday, Feb. 20 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT).
The following night, Wednesday, Feb. 21 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT), the Top 12 female singers will perform. A LIVE results show revealing America’s first vote of the season will air Thursday, Feb. 22 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT), when the two male and two female contestants with the fewest votes will be sent home.
For the next two weeks, the males will perform on Tuesdays, the females on Wednesdays and the LIVE results show will air on Thursday nights. Thus, the Top 10 male singers will perform on Tuesday, Feb. 27 (8:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) and the Top 8 male singers on Tuesday, March 6 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT). The Top 10 female singers will perform on Wednesday, Feb. 28 (8:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) and the Top 8 female singers battle it out on Wednesday, March 7 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT). Four contestants, two males and two females, will be eliminated from the competition on the LIVE results shows airing Thursday, March 1 (8:00-9:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) and Thursday, March 8 (8:00-9:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed). The Top 12 Finalists will be revealed on Thursday, March 8.
The competition heats up as the Top 12 Finalists take the stage for the first time together on Tuesday, March 13 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT). One contestant’s journey will end as America’s vote is revealed on Wednesday, March 14 (9:00-9:30 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed).
RECAP (All times ET/PT)
Tuesday, Jan. 16 (8:00-10:00 PM) Season Premiere, Part 1 - Minneapolis Auditions
Wednesday, Jan. 17 (8:00-10:00 PM) Season Premiere, Part 2 - Seattle Auditions
Tuesday, Jan. 23 (8:00-9:00 PM) Memphis Auditions
Wednesday, Jan. 24 (9:00-10:00 PM) New York City Auditions
Tuesday, Jan. 30 (8:00-9:00 PM) Birmingham Auditions
Wednesday, Jan. 31 (9:00-10:00 PM) San Antonio Auditions
Tuesday, Feb. 6 (8:00-9:00 PM) Los Angeles Auditions
Wednesday, Feb. 7 (9:00-10:00 PM) “Rest of the Best” Auditions
Tuesday, Feb. 13 (8:00-9:00 PM) Hollywood Round, Part 1
Wednesday, Feb. 14 (9:00-10:00 PM) Hollywood Round, Part 2 - Top 24 Semifinalists Announced
Tuesday, Feb. 20 (8:00-10:00 PM) Top 12 Male Singers Perform
Wednesday, Feb. 21 (8:00-10:00 PM) Top 12 Female Singers Perform
Thursday, Feb. 22 (8:00-9:00 PM) First Results Show (Live ET/Tape-Delayed PT) - Two Male and Two Female Contestants Voted Off
Tuesday, Feb. 27 (8:00-9:30 PM) Top 10 Male Singers Perform
Wednesday, Feb. 28 (8:00-9:30 PM) Top 10 Female Singers Perform
Thursday, March 1 (8:00-9:00 PM) Results Show (Live ET/Tape-Delayed PT) - Two Male and Two Female Contestants Voted Off
Tuesday, March 6 (8:00-9:00 PM) Top 8 Male Singers Perform
Wednesday, March 7 (8:00-9:00 PM) Top 8 Female Singers Perform
Thursday, March 8 (8:00-9:00 PM) Results Show (Live ET/Tape-Delayed PT) - Two Male and Two Female Contestants Voted Off; Top 12 Finalists Revealed
Tuesday, March 13 (8:00-10:00 PM) Top 12 Finalists Perform
Wednesday, March 14 (9:00-9:30 PM) Results Show (Live ET/Tape-Delayed PT) - One Contestant Voted Off
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.
Visit Americanidol.com for exclusive videos and photos from the audition cities, special behind-the-scenes information and all of your AMERICAN IDOL news. For all photo requests, please go to www.foxflash.com.
1/9: Idol worth $2.5 billion
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Ad Age estimates the “American Idol” franchise to be worth at least $2.5 billion if it were sold on the open market. That includes $500 million alone in domestic ad sales on Fox, millions more from CD/download sales, the “Idol” live tour and fees from 40 licensees, such as Konami (for the American Idol Karaoke Revolution game on the Playstation 2 console) to Nestle, which will have 79 million “Idol” branded candy bars flooding the market soon. Dreyer’s will have “Idol” themed flavors such as “Hollywood Cheesecake” and “Drumstick Diva.” (Wow, are those truly cheesy names, or what?)
1/8: Idol to stream online/EW cover story
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I hear American Idol will stream at least the first couple of bad audition episodes online.
And while small-fry media like me gets to glean crumbs off Randy Jackson in a mass phone press conference later today (I’ll post info I can get off that as soon as possible), Entertainment Weekly gets personal face-to-face time with all four of the major on-air players (Simon, Randy, Paula and Ryan), plus the two key executive producers Ken Warwick and Nigel Lythgoe. (The regional press might get Ken for a phone press conference on January 15.)
EW, of course, is a national magazine so you can’t blame the Fox folks for giving them preferential treatment. (I’m sure they’ll give TV Guide some love, too.). Here’s the main story online.
I can’t say they got any real major scoops but several minor ones.
Simon says there’s no major frontrunner.
Nigel says some of the contestants bite back even more at Simon because he wasn’t an early fan of ultimate winner Taylor.
As they have noted before, Seattle was especially abysmal for talent (just like season one.)
The details of the songwriting contest have not been finalized yet.
The guest judges don’t please Simon as usual and songwriter Carole Bayer Sager was especially lame.
Nigel still wants Paul McCartney to join the show while Randy says he is going to try to get Mariah on board.
And as I predicted earlier this year, Simon will be crankier than ever. Ryan says Simon’s busy schedule with music group Il Divo and his British show X Factor contributes to his attittude.
1/7: Dueling idols on late-night shows
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Jennifer Hudson will croon on “Late Night with David Letterman” Monday night while Chris Daughtry will be on “The Tonight Show With Jay Leno.”
Permalink | |
1/6: Mandisa, Kellie tidbits
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Tennessean updated info about both Mandisa and Kellie PIckler. Mandisa is writing a book due out in June about her Idol experiences. And Kellie at a local bar somehow ended up at the bottom of a group of hockey players after doing a handstand — or something like that.
Here’s the link
Permalink | |
1/6: Taylor single finally coming out
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Although Taylor has been singing the upbeat “Runaround” on TV shows in recent weeks, the label is releasing a softer ballad-style tune “Just to Feel That Way” later this month or early February to coincide with his tour, according to fan site www.graycharles.com. Some radio airplay, even on hot AC and AC stations, might help staunch the sales drops he’s been experiencing. Personally, I would have stuck with “Runaround” but what do I know?
Overall, American Idol contestants took a tumble the week after Christmas. Most CDs saw 60 to 70 percent drops in sales overall.
Chris Daughty is the top-ranked Idol at #11 (from #8), with 76K sold and 1.12 million total. His single “It’s Not Over” keeps on moving up the top 40 charts, as well as rock charts and that exposure has limited his sales drops.
Carrie fell from 4 to 15 with 66K sold and 4.65 million total. She is well on her way to 5 million sold.
Taylor’s first CD dropped from 15 to 36 with an 80-plus percent drop in sales, from 212K to 39K. No radio airplay means his numbers will keep dropping off. He’s only up to 540K and without a radio single hit, he may struggle to hit 1 million. Every winner has reached 1 million to date.
The week after Christmas, R&B/hip-hop albums tend to hold up better and Fantasia held true, falling from 63 to 66. She moved 22K, down from 66K and is up to 217K. Her single “Hood Boy” continues to move up the charts as well.
Ditto with Kellie Pickler, whose single “Red High Heels” is now in the top 20 on the country chart and keeps climbing. Her CD sold 17K, dropping from 61 to 84. She’s up to 353K.
Both Clay and Ruben sold fewer than 6,000 copies each and were not on the top 200. Clay is at 489K and Ruben 187K
1/5: Karaoke Revolution Idol out this week
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This week, “Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol” comes out on Sony PlayStation.
Here’s more info about it.
Here’s a positive review from ign.com.
You can sing about 40 songs and get judged by Randy, Simon and Laura. Where’s Paula? Obviously, she couldn’t come to an agreement with the makers to use her voice. I’m not a good singer myself but I enjoy karaoke and have played previous version of “Karaoke Revolution.” It’ll be interesting to check this one out because it adds the judge’s comments on top of the score you receive.
You can buy it on Amazon.. They are selling it for about $40 or $50 with extra components.
The song list is below though some secret tracks are likely to be included:
All My Life
Alone
(There’s) Always Something There To Remind Me
Be Without You
Breakaway
Build Me Up Buttercup
Can’t Help Falling In Love
Crazy Little Thing Called Love
Dilemma
Do I Make You Proud
Don’t Let The Sun Go Down on Me
Don’t You Want Me
Easy
Every Rose Has Its Thorn
Flying Without Wings
Heartbreaker
Heaven
Hungry Like The Wolf
If You Don’t Know Me By Now
It’s Not Unusual
Just The Way You Are
Let’s Stay Together
Love Will Keep Us Together
More Than Words
Photograph
Piano Man
Proud Mary
Rock With You
Saving All My Love For You
She Bangs
Stand By Me
Stickwitu
Straight Up
Sugar, We’re Going Down
The Real Thing
Total Eclipse Of The Heart
Unwritten
What A Girl Wants
You And Me
You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling
1/5: Season three update
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This is part three of five parts as we update what folks are doing from each of the five previous “Idol” seasons. Much of the info is gleaned from an exhaustive survey done by Us magazine, with a few tidbits thrown in by me for good measure. Season four updates will be up next week on a slow day. Jennifer Hudson and Fantasia have already been covered previously.
Diana DeGarmo ’04: The former Snellville gal now living in New York has a boyfriend, Us says, but doesn’t say who it is. Of the musical “Hairspray”: “It’s been my version of college!”
Jasmine Trias ’04: They note that she’s done well in Hawaii (as well as the Phillipines.) She told Us she plans to move to Los Angeles, hoping to expand her appeal.
La Toya London ’04: She’s starring in “The Color Purple” in Chicago.
George Huff ’04: We saw him Thanksgiving. He’s doing well in the gospel world but Us notes he also would like to act.
Jon Peter Lewis ’04: Says he went through self doubt about his voice. Otherwise, no real update about his career (or lack thereof)
John Stevens ‘04: He’s a student at Berklee College of Music.
Camile Velasco ’04: Working on an urban R&B CD, lives in L.A.
Leah LaBelle ’04: She’s studying at Boston’s Berklee College of Music, just like John Stevens.
Amy Adams ’04: She toured with the national “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” and had a child with her husband Ross Varner, 29.
Don’t remember her? Here’s a photo:
Matt Rogers ’04: Has an infant Brayden with his wife Teri and hosts “Really Big Things” on the Discovery Channel in January.
1/4: Season two updates
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Here’s a summary of Us magazine’s update on season two contestants, not counting two we have followed all along, Ruben and Clay:
Kimberley Locke ’03: Us didn’t get much. I interviewed her earlier last year and checked her myspace Web site. She was trying to push a single to R&B radio (“Supawoman”) after having an AC hit with “8th World Wonder.” It didn’t stick. But she’s not giving up, with plans for an R&B CD this year. In the meantime, she cut a Xmas CD, got a hit out of one of her Christmas songs (“Jingle Bells”) and has been taping VH1’s “Celebrity Fit Club,” according to her myspace Web site.
Josh Gracin ’03: He played 130 shows in 2006 (including at least one in metro Atlanta.) and is still promoting his second CD, which isn’t doing nearly as well as the first one. The first single “Favorite State of Mind” barely scraped the top 40 and his second single is currently struggling to go top 40. In comparison, all three singles from his first CD went top 5 and the CD sold more than 500K. He welcomed his third child in November.
Trenyce ’03: She’s in some musical called “Invisible Life.” Her web site doesn’t look like it’s been updated lately.
Carmen Rasmussen ’03: She married Brad Herbert in 2005 and is recording a country CD but she didn’t sing for a year after Idol. She was in “Fear Factor: reality edition” last year with Anthony Fedorov.
Kimberly Caldwell ’03: She’s a host on TV Guide Channel and is working on a country CD. She has dabbled in acting but hasn’t had much luck beyond a small bit in short-lived sitcom “Life on a Stick.”
Corey Clark ’03: No music career for the man who allegedly slept with Paula Abdul. He’s in Nashville working in construction and separated from his wife.
Rickey Smith ’03: Bartending in Oklahoma City.
Charles Grigsby ’03: Not much except spending time with family.
Julia DeMato ’03: A cosmetologist in Connecticut.
Vanessa Olivarez ’03: Atlanta’s own is lead singer of South 70, a country act. I posted an item about her a few months ago.
Can’t remember Charles Grigsby? Here’s his photo:
1/3: Bucky signs, Taylor at Orange Bowl
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Bucky Covington has signed a major label deal with Lyric Street, which also has Rascal Flatts, Shedaisy and season two finalist Josh Gracin. Read all about it, courtesy of the Nashville Business Journal.
And I’m sorry I didn’t know about Taylor at the Orange Bowl. Somebody captured it on gofish.
1/3: Season one updates
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Us magazine did a major amount of work and got in touch with virtually every of the 58 American Idol contestants so far.
We’ve recently updated info about Kelly Clarkson ‘02 (working on her third album due out later this year), Clay Aiken ‘03 (awaiting the fate of his second studio CD), Ruben Studdard ‘03 (hoping his third CD makes a comeback), Jennifer Hudson ’04 (umm.. Dreamgirls anybody?), Fantasia ’04 (Working her 2nd CD), Bo Bice ’05 (recuperating from his intestinal surgery), Carrie Underwood ‘05 (“Some Hearts” still going strong), Kellie Pickler ’06 (The small-town’ gal keeps on workin’ it), Taylor Hicks ’06 (new CD promotion machine) and Katharine McPhee ‘06 (First CD out Jan. 30). That leaves 49 others. Here are updates from the Class of 2002, courtesy of Us. I’ll provide more updates from Us later this week, season by season, on days when regular Idol news is slow.
Season one:
Justin Guarini ’02: He now lives in Hollywood Hills and has a girlfriend. He’s working on an indie pic “Fast Girls” and working on a jazz/funk/soul CD.
Nikki McKibbin ’02: She’s getting married to a guy named Craig Sadler, 38 and does bartending. “I have a house, two kids, two dogs,” she tells Us. “I’ve grown up a lot!”
Tamyra Gray ’02: As I have noted, she recently married Color Me Badd singer Sam Watters.
RJ Helton ’02: The former Cumming resident recently moved to New York with his boyfriend, he came out in October. We spoke with him at the time.
Christina Christian ’02: Married with a one-year-old son, she landed a music publishing deal.
Ryan Starr ’02: She’s had mixed feelings about the show, is single and trying to drum up a reality show about seeking a record deal.
AJ Gill ’02: He’s working on an R&B CD.
Jim Verraros ’02: Now lives with his partner Bill and is working on a second CD.
EJay Day (from Lawrenceville Ga.) ’02: Continues to sing on cruise ships.
1/2: Vote for the worst man talks
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Remember the site www.votefortheworst.com? I always got a sense the site didn’t have as much influence as it got hits. But here’s an interview with the guy who runs the site. I tend to agree with most of what he says though the fact he’s a huge fan of Brenna Gethers is mildly disturbing. And if you remember her from last season, congratulations! You’re a true addict!
There’s also a hilarious picture of Taylor holding up a “Vote for the worst” T-shirt. Yes, Taylor is in on the joke, so to speak.
1/1: Idol predictions for 2007
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I’m pretty horrendous when it comes to predictions. I’ll provide a few here but I’d love to hear from all of you. We’ll come back in May and see how we did.
Here are my five not-so-bold predictions:
1 - After five consecutive seasons in which the show’s popularity increased, this will be the season folks will start complaining that it has jumped the shark and ratings fall a modest 5 percent. That’s not enough for Fox to panic but other networks gleefully chuckle to themselves that Fox’s savior may have seen its best days in the rear-view mirror.
2 - Simon gets nastier. Is it possible? Of course! He’s now insanely rich and working on so many other shows that his occasional irascible boredom escalates.
3 - The mid-season “surprise” one of the exec producers recently promised will be separating the remaining contestants by race. Oh, wait. “Survivor” did that already, didn’t they? Hmm… how could they possibly surprise us? Make us vote off two contestants in one week? Nahh… Fox isn’t going to waste a week like that. Have us vote for who we want OFF the show for one week, just to see what happens? Nope. I don’t see that one. An all-opera episode? Not a chance. Beautiful women enter the stage with numbered suitcases. Contestants pick a number and must sing the song that shows up in the case. That’d be a fine, desperate move. Bringing back already eliminated contestants to heckle the existing ones while they sing? Funny but not gonna happen. Actually, maybe they’ll give folks who were voted off a chance to get back on the show? That’s one “Survivor” did, too. Feel free to throw in your own suggestions.
4 - Corey Clark was booted in season two and Mario Vazquez quit before season four’s final 12 started. This year, somebody voluntarily quits mid-way through for some salacious reason.
5 - For the first time, the winner won’t be from the South or Oklahoma. The West Coast finally gets some love after Kat almost made it in 2006.
