American Idol Buzz

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Flats, did I beat you here?

By flats

May 9, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

FIRST!!!!WOOOOOOOHOOOO!!!!

By Justin

May 9, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

Dropping the age from 16 to 14 would be a horrible idea….I would start losing interest in the show….and I am stilla flipping teenager.

By flats

May 9, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

DAMN!!!!

By JTesla

May 9, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Harmony is going to take the cup!

I don’t mind the current age limit, I think I’m virtually alone in that opinion, but I do not think that lowering it will help any.

It’s humorous that not only do past contestants make news, but so do past Idol flunkies.

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Flats, I apologized on the last thread.BTW How am I doing on points?

By Negativo

May 9, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Why not just drop the age range to 14-17 and change the name to American Junior Idol? Have it run for 4 months. Then, when it ends, have American Adult Idol, age range 18-28, for the next 4 months.

That way I can enjoy the idol I want to watch, without the tweenies making me want to puke, and they can have their own show - which I will very happily skip. This way, everybody’s happy.

By harrietth

May 9, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Sixteen is already young enough. Leave it alone!!

By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,

May 9, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

Dropping the age would make it seem like American Idol Juniors, and the entire adult population, other than grannies, perhaps, would drop out entirely. While the younger kids may be the FUTURE target of the advertisers, those self-same advertisers better remember who pays the bills for those chil’ren right now!

Therefore, I disagree. If you want to start up a Junior Division, fine, do a separate show. Make the age range 14-20. If you do that, change the age for AI to 21-30 and let adults hear some serious contenders (and leave the BS for the younger set, LOL!!!).

no way i want to hear 14 year olds compete against 28 year olds. There’s too much of a discrepancy, and besides, the younguns will be having vocal changes … perhaps right in the middle of their competitions! YUK!

Don’t get me wrong. I think Archie has a future. I just don’t think that AI is the place for that future to start — i say again, i think he needs to drop out of competing for a year, sing for FUN, go to school, date a girl, go to a prom, have a drink under the bleachers… LIVE a little… then after a year — or two — get back into the Biz’ness…

but i’ve been saying that all year, lol!

By flats

May 9, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

I want more chicks ranging from 25-45!!!!

By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,

May 9, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Neg, LOL! looks like, except for a slight variation in numbers, we’re on the same wavelength!!! ^5

By flats

May 9, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Harmony…your fine.You moved in the top 5.

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

I agree with Neg,Raise the age not lower it.

By Deirdre

May 9, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

14???????? Abso-frickin-lutely NOT! The 16 year olds are too young. The problem isn’t younger contestants…it’s younger music!

And could someone please remind Simon that if he talks to a 14 year old the way he talks to some of the other contestants, he’s liable to get arrested for child abuse!

By Deirdre

May 9, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Lost Harmony…to answer a question you asked on the other thread…the orderly that was with Locke last night was also the guy who met with Hurley in the asylum asking if there were any other survivors.

And harrietth…Michael CAN die…the island isn’t letting him until it’s through with him. I think!?

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

Thanks to all for the Lostinfo.

I remember watching idol junior, the winners were almost all of the youngest contestants. The ones that didn’t win were heartbroken, they are not as good with rejection that young.Why, put them through that?

By gerrie

May 9, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

I think that the younger idol’s like amazing david Archuleta, who i pray wins idol this year ,is the perfect age.Who has the love of the youger age kids,and is so very humble is what is needed. He definately deserves too win.Hes my idol and i’m a grandmother.My grandkids love him so much& would be fans forever.

By Deirdre

May 9, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

It’s a dilemma, Harmony. Children want to compete because they believe they can’t lose. Losing is an educational tool BUT..losing on national TV with all your friends, family and half the nation watching is cruelty. Would we honestly be able to restrain ourselves from saying on the blog what we really think about the children on the off chance that they might read it??? OK…maybe we could but I seriously doubt that Neg could! :-)

By gerrie

May 9, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

I think that the younger idol’s like amazing david Archuleta, who i pray wins idol this year ,is the perfect age.Who has the love of the youger age kids,and is so very humble is what is needed. He definately deserves too win.Hes my idol and i’m a grandmother.My grandkids love him so much& would be fans forever.

By KPH

May 9, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

I would like to see no age limit, there are a lot of great singers that never had the chance to show their talents who are over 30 years old. Hell I may even try out. :-)

By Deirdre

May 9, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

Heck, KPH…we could have geriatric Idol! :-)….Sorry…just getting even with you for yesterday!

By harrietth

May 9, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Dierdre. Working late. Gotta go. Hope everyone has a good weekend, and thanks, linny and Menana, for all the nostalgia blogs about Atlanta “back in the day.” I really enjoyed it. Apologies to others who may not have enjoyed it half so much. Bye.

By War Eagle

May 9, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

KPH, I would vote for you

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

KPH, Was the Funtown of which you speak located on Stewart Ave?

By Deirdre

May 9, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Spoiler Alert

We’ve added another song choice…here’s what we have so far:

“David Cook reveals his song choices this morning:

Syesha Mercado

By KPH

May 9, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

LOL! No problem D., Give me enough Geritol and I will sing any song you want to hear! But it would have to be called “seasoned” Idol. We would blow those young whippersnappers right off the stage LOL!

By Deirdre

May 9, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

I, personally, cannot wait to hear David Cook sing The First Time Ever… I can feel myself starting to melt already!

By Deirdre

May 9, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

I have no doubt, KPH!!! Life experience ALWAYS trumps youthful exuberance!

By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home

May 9, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this

i’ve often thought there should be an “Other Idol” for older than 30 — look at that guy who sang for his late wife!!! He was darned GOOD. Maybe not a pop idol competition, but dang it there are a lot of people who had to, for one reason or another, put music careers on hold… making it, like any other field, harder to break BACK into later! I think it’s a great idea, but, like Nashville Star, the auditions should be private, never aired except for clips of the contestants who MAKE it into the final 12 or 10 or whatever!!!!! no circus of clowns and wannabees and general gimme-my-15-seconds-of-fame jerks!

By Menana

May 9, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this

Harrietth: You are welcome. I too enjoyed our trip through early Atlanta.

Harmony: The Fun Town that we mentioned was the same one on Stewart Ave.

I have just read an article in this week’s People on Brooke White. Two days after she left Idol, her former manager who owns the indy label she was signed to re-released her CD and it quickly cracked the Top 15 on iTunes list of the top 100 pop albums. On it, she wrote most of the songs and it was an original from cover to songs. Brooke did not know about the release and was quite shocked that it was released without her knowledge, but she stated that she was thankful for it. She will definitely make music. The CD was first released in 2006 and titled “Songs from the Attic”.

By Menana

May 9, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

Oh, I forgot to comment on the age limit for AI. NO, NO, NO………

They should not lower the age to 14. A child that young IMO can not compete with a person who is 10 plus years older. Don’t know how many of you may remember this, but several years ago, when Lee Ann Rimes (age 15) and Trisa Yearwood (almost 20 years older) recorded the same song “How can I Live Without You”, there was a huge controversy as to which recording would be used for the movie Titanic and it was decided that Trisa’s version would be used due to the fact she was more experienced, older, and understand the meaning of the song more than LeeAnn. Trisa was quoted as saying that she did not have to compete with a kid. I will have to say that both versions were really good and for me it was hard to say which was the best. The point that I am making is that younger is not always better, even though they may have excellent vocals, as Lee Ann does. AI should heed the old saying that if its not broken, don’t fix it. I honestly do not think that by lowering the age limit, it will increase the rating for AI. Hopefully, the higher ups will carefully consider pitting children against adults. To me, there would not be any competition. That is basically the way it is now with the two Davids. There is a big age gap there along with lil Davids inexperience and immaturity. A child can not take the form of criticism that is handed out by the judges, abeit some adults can’t either. There, I have said my peace about the subject. NO LOWERING THE AGE!!!!!!

By War Eagle

May 9, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

How about the Richway department stores. All I can remember is the colorful things that were on the roof.

By Menana

May 9, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Good Evening WE: Oh yes, loved those Richway stores. They were a cheaper division of Richs. Less not forget WT Grants or Discount City. I doubt if you have ever heard of them. They were probably waaaay before your time.

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

War,Do you remember Woolco or Arlen’s department stores? One of my husbands first jobs was at Richway on Old National Hwy.

By War Eagle

May 9, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this

ALERT

TMZ has learned David Archuleta’s dad, Jeff, has been officially banned from “American Idol.”

Here’s how it went down. “Idol” sources tell TMZ Jeff has been a complete pain in the ass, interfering with the entire production. He has badgered producers, the band, vocal coaches and even other contestants. The final straw came this week, when Jeff wanted to change the lyrics to David’s first song, “Stand By Me.” Jeff insisted on adding a verse from Sean Kingston’s hit, “Beautiful Girls.” Producers sent him an e-mail telling him the lyrics could not be changed. They were beyond p** when David sang the song with Kingston’s lyrics during the live show.

We’re told by changing the lyrics, it created problems with the song’s publisher and cost “A.I.” a lot of money.

Jeff was ordered to sit with “A.I.” lawyers on Wednesday, who told him he was “banned from being in the rooms where David was learning or rehearsing his songs.” It’s “Idol’s” position, since David is 17, he does not need a guardian — just a teacher. Jeff will be allowed to sit in the audience during the live show but he’s 86’d from anything backstage.

Sources say the other contestants were fed up with Jeff and didn’t want him near them. Now they have their wish.

All in all, sources say Jeff is the stage dad from hell. BTW, he was banned on the set when David did “Star Search” a few years back.

TMZ has learned David Archuleta’s dad, Jeff, has been officially banned from “American Idol.”

Here’s how it went down. “Idol” sources tell TMZ Jeff has been a complete pain in the ass, interfering with the entire production. He has badgered producers, the band, vocal coaches and even other contestants. The final straw came this week, when Jeff wanted to change the lyrics to David’s first song, “Stand By Me.” Jeff insisted on adding a verse from Sean Kingston’s hit, “Beautiful Girls.” Producers sent him an e-mail telling him the lyrics could not be changed. They were beyond p** when David sang the song with Kingston’s lyrics during the live show.

We’re told by changing the lyrics, it created problems with the song’s publisher and cost “A.I.” a lot of money.

Jeff was ordered to sit with “A.I.” lawyers on Wednesday, who told him he was “banned from being in the rooms where David was learning or rehearsing his songs.” It’s “Idol’s” position, since David is 17, he does not need a guardian — just a teacher. Jeff will be allowed to sit in the audience during the live show but he’s 86’d from anything backstage.

Sources say the other contestants were fed up with Jeff and didn’t want him near them. Now they have their wish.

All in all, sources say Jeff is the stage dad from hell. BTW, he was banned on the set when David did “Star Search” a few years back.

TMZ has learned David Archuleta’s dad, Jeff, has been officially banned from “American Idol.”

Here’s how it went down. “Idol” sources tell TMZ Jeff has been a complete pain in the ass, interfering with the entire production. He has badgered producers, the band, vocal coaches and even other contestants. The final straw came this week, when Jeff wanted to change the lyrics to David’s first song, “Stand By Me.” Jeff insisted on adding a verse from Sean Kingston’s hit, “Beautiful Girls.” Producers sent him an e-mail telling him the lyrics could not be changed. They were beyond p** when David sang the song with Kingston’s lyrics during the live show.

We’re told by changing the lyrics, it created problems with the song’s publisher and cost “A.I.” a lot of money.

Jeff was ordered to sit with “A.I.” lawyers on Wednesday, who told him he was “banned from being in the rooms where David was learning or rehearsing his songs.” It’s “Idol’s” position, since David is 17, he does not need a guardian — just a teacher. Jeff will be allowed to sit in the audience during the live show but he’s 86’d from anything backstage.

Sources say the other contestants were fed up with Jeff and didn’t want him near them. Now they have their wish.

All in all, sources say Jeff is the stage dad from hell. BTW, he was banned on the set when David did “Star Search” a few years back.

http://www.tmz.com/2008/05/09/archuletas-dad-banished-from-idol/

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

Glad your father is doing better Menana.

By War Eagle

May 9, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Sorry for the triple post. All in one post.

By Menana

May 9, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Hi Harmony: Did you see my answer to you on an earlier post about Fun Town being the one on Stewart Ave?

There was another discount store that came along around the same time as Richway and I can’t remember the name of it. It was part of JCP. Do you remember the name? I used to shop at the one on Covington Hwy in Decatur, but they had them all over Atlanta. Oh Oh I just remembered. They were called Zayers(sp) Department Stores. Do you remember them?

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

Well that doesn’t surprise me at all.I wonder how many more stories we will hear about the stage dad from hello.

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this

Yes Menana, You answered two questions for me, and I remember Zayre’s. I was 13 when Hank hit the homerun.

I’m very curious to find out how the dad bothered the other contestants.

By War Eagle

May 9, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this

Menana, glad your father is doing better. You should have let me know that you were in town. I could have treated you to a CJ’s hot dog.

By Menana

May 9, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

WOW…….. Dear ole dad got the boot. A little late, but better than never. Thank you WE for the excellent information. Bet Jeff is not a happy camper. I just wonder how it will affect David come Tuesday night. So, they changed the lyrics without AI approval. what a mess that will create. IMO, Jeff should be the one to pay the money and not AI. We have said all along, the dad was picking and choosing. I really feel bad for David. You can bet this is not over. I’m with Harm on how he bothered the others. Maybe wew can find out.

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

War,I will be in Newnan next Saturday 5-17 to attend my cousins wedding,it will also be my 48th birthday,so meet me there and bring two hotdogs from CJ’s and I’ll make sure I deliver one to Menana.

By War Eagle

May 9, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

LOL Harm, I’ll wait until you all come down here. No one likes a cold Winnie!

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

When Archie writes his memoirs, I wonder how dear old Dad will be portrayed?

By Menana

May 9, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this

What a strange coincidence. I will be in LaGrange next week-end checking on my Dad and taking him to his great grandson’s wedding. Talk about a small world.

Harm: Thanks for the kind words concerning my Dad.

Hubby is ready for bed and the PC is in the bedroom, so I will say g’night and hope you all have a pleasant night.

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

You win War! We will come to Callaway Gardens if you agree to cater the lunch from CJ’s.

By War Eagle

May 9, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

KIA training tomorrow. G night.

By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home

May 9, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this

OK….now wouldn’t it be HILARIOUS if Harmony’s cousin and Menana’s Dad’s greatgrandson were the ones getting married?????????????? THAT would be a really really neat coincidence!!!

nah. never happen!

except on Lost!

By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home

May 9, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

and WE thank you for the TMZ report!!!! excellent work, m’man!!!

i think he (jeff) bothered the other contestants just being there harping on… erm, excuse me … “guiding” archie through his competition coff coff

and just to make an observation… Archie is NOT “inexperienced” in comparison to DC … Archie’s been performing in competitions and on stage for at LEAST 7+ years. However i would assume it’s all been under Jeff’s coff coff guidance.

By Justin

May 9, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

Syesha did a great job with the National Anthem, while David Cook does a great job with Living On A Prayer.

By Harmony

May 9, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Linny, That would be strange.

I wonder how many of us have crossed paths with other idol bloggers in our lifetime without knowing it?

By Deirdre

May 10, 2008 7:35 AM | Link to this

Morning mushblogians…I know it’s Saturday but I wanted to comment on WE’s discovery that Jeff Archuletta has been banned.

I’m surprised it took this long. It was clear about 4 weeks ago that Simon wasn’t happy with the man.

And re the other contestants…it’s been implied that Jeff tried to ‘undermine’ the other contestants on Star Search. Maybe he was trying to work that little piece of magic again.

In any event…Idol ought to charge him the money it took to appease the publisher….and I wouldn’t be surprise if 2 song publishers were involved.

By Deirdre

May 10, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

Spoiler Alert

Here now are ALL the judges choice songs for our top 3. David Cook has been kind enough to tell us HIS choice as well:

David Cook reveals his song choices this morning:

Syesha Mercado

David Archuleta

One song is chosen by the contestant, one song is chosen by a judge, the third song is picked by the producers.

By Menana

May 10, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

Good Morning to All!!!!!!!!!!!

Hope you all had a good night and rested well.

Don’t think that the weddings are connected unless the couple hails from Alabama. Our wedding is taking place in Auburn AL. And with Harm going to Newnan, not the same wedding. But it would be a hoot if it were.

When I made the comment about DA’s inexperience, I didn’t mean to imply that he had none, and I guess I didn’t make myself clear enough. I was comparing the age difference between the two and as we all can attest to, with age comes MORE experience. I was just saying that I feel DC has more experience behind him due to his age and maturity. I know that DA has been performing for many years, but I don’t feel he has the experience that DC does. DC has seen in this business longer, had his own band and played professionally more and done his own style without parental interference than DA. Either one has the talent and ability to take all on AI. Hope I explained my comment alittle better this time, but if not, then I welcome a feedback from you all. After all, that is what we do here.

By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home

May 10, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Thanks Menana, that clears up my understanding of what you meant :) I wasn’t trying to jump on YOU, just pointing out that lil David isn’t exactly inexperienced in performance; obviously he IS inexperienced in life, which I have pointed out is his biggest problem, and that he needs to take off from competing for a couple of years and just LIVE… so we’re in agreement!

drive safely y’all!!!