Access Atlanta > American Idol Buzz > Archives > 2008 > May > 20 > Entry
5/20: Top 2 Idol performance show, Josiah Leming signs deal
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“Idol” is playing up the “boxing” metaphors to the hilt, aren’t they? You’d think they were going to have to sing “Eye of the Tiger”!
In the end, it was one of the better top 2 performance shows. But we know who came out to really win this: David Archuleta. Cook was solid but could it be that Archuleta wants this victory just a bit more? Archuleta’s pick of that very self-centered song “In This Moment” says everything. He wants that moment tomorrow night. And you know? He might just get it.
Personally, I still prefer Cook but it’s hard to be upset if Archuleta takes it home. He has earned this. And we can always rationalize that, like Daughtry, Cook doesn’t need this win to succeed.
Good news for Cook fans: he seems to be comfortably ahead in dialidol.com. Maybe all that Archuleta pimping by Simon fueled the Cook lovers to dial heavily. But dialidol doesn’t include text messaging votes, which might push Archuleta ahead.
[And “Dancing With the Stars” had its results tonight, too. Early favorite Kristi Yamaguchi won, the second gal to win it in six cycles.]
And surprise! Ruben showed up at the end to sing “Celebrate Me Home.” Woohoo!
Cook’s first song (“I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” by U2,” Clive’s pick) - A great song choice for Cook, who can do spirituals well. He opens strong and brings some Bono-like swagger as goes onto the stage behind the judge’s table. In this case, I really wanted him to sing the entire song, not the truncated “Idol’ version. Good job. Randy: “It was a great way to start this dual of 2007. (huh? 2007?)” Paula: “David Cook has arrived. Amen, amen. You are in great voice tonight.” Simon: “I can see you at top of this show. Looked very tense and emotional. Taking that together, it was phenomenal.” A/A-minus
Archuleta’s first song (“Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” by Elton John, Clive’s pick) —Â Clive has given Archuleta a calling card song that Clay Aiken did five years ago. That’s going to be tough to top. You have to wonder if Clive picked it on purpose to see if he can match Clay. But with that tough comparison, it’s clear he doesn’t have the vocal depth of Clay. It’s another solid Archuleta performance but didn’t knock my socks off. I gave it a second listen after the following effusive comments and yes, he does a wonderful vocal job. Maybe the song is just a bit overdone for me, hard for me to feel moved. Randy: “Doesn’t matter what happens. This is one of the best performances all season. That was flawless and unbelievably molten hot.” [Huh?] Paula: “My heart’s still pounding. The sun is never going to go down on you.” [Is Paula going to make comments based on the song titles all night?] Simon: “It’s very easy to get overexcited tonight. Last week, you were okay. I thought tonight’s performance was arguably the best you’ve done so far. Round one goes to Archuleta.” B-plus
Cook’s second song (“Dream Big,” songwriter’s pick) - He adds his vintage grunge feel to a song with an incredibly mundane message. Musically, he picked a suitable song from the dreck for him. He did about as good a job given the circumstances. Randy: “The song was just okay for me. But you were singing your face off.” Paula: “It was a great way to take a song we don’t know and fall in love with it.” SImon: “It was a bit of a lightweight. The end of okay. You made the most of what you have. It didn’t feel like a winning moment for me. That was a 6.5 out of 10.” A-minus
Archuleta’s second song (“In This Moment,” songwriter’s pick) - This craptastic ballad feels interminable. This is not to be mistaken for “A Moment Like This.” And it won’t be. I’m hoping one of those sorority girls grabs Archuleta’s ankles. “I want to stay in this moment,” he sings. “Nobody can take it away.” Well, except the voters. I do have to give him credit. He felt the song, believed the lyrics, sold it well. Randy: “The song I wasn’t crazy about. You are so in the zone, you could sing the phone book.” Paula: “Another heartfelt performance. It’s like pure magic.” Simon: “I loved the egotistical lyric. Fantastically self centered. You chose the better song. Much more in keeping with the night. Round two goes to David Archuleta.” A-minus
Cook’s third song (“The World I Know,” by Atlanta’s Collective Soul, contestant’s choice) - He saved the song from last week. It’s a lovely tune but is it a showstopper? I’m not so sure. He slows down an already thoughtful, pensive tune. He does a lovely job but that wasn’t a great way to end the night for him because it simply didn’t hit that emotional punch (using the silly boxing metaphors.) Randy: “That’s the sensitive side of David Cook. You can make this record and get by. Very nice job dude.” Paula: “I looked up at you and you’re standing in your truth and delivering unbelievable songs with integrity… I truly applaud you.” SImon: “You are actually one of the nicest, most sincere contestants we had. I thought that was a beautiful song but I’m going to be honest but the wrong song choice for you. What you should done is sung ‘Billie Jean’ or ‘Hello.’ ” “For me, it’s a progression. Why do something I’ve already done?” Cook said. I give him points for doing something new. B-plus/A-minus
Archuleta’s third song (“Imagine” by John Lennon, contestant’s choice) - Archuleta plays it safe with what he thought was his best performance. Can you blame him? He’s in it to win this and goes with his strongest, um, hook. (I know, I know, stop the boxing metaphors!) Strategically, he wants his teen fans to text, text, text, and this should properly inspire them. Subtle and powerful. Positions him well for the victory. Randy: “You are so good tonight. You’re exactly what this show is about.” Paula: “It’s the culmination David. You’ve left me speechless like when you first sang the song.” Simon: “We’ve taken a little bit of stick, this competition. This show is about finding a star. I think we’ve witnessed one of the great finals. In my opinion, David, you came out here tonight to win. What we have witnessed is a knockout.” (Okay, Simon did the final boxing metaphor, not me!) A
Tonight’s show will feature three songs each: one picked by Clive Davis, one the songwriters’ competition winner and one pick by the contestant. David Archuleta will reprise his “Imagine.” He will also perform last, winning the game toss. (He looked to his dad in the audience for guidance.) Surely, Jeff Archuleta knew that the ultimate winner sang second five out of six times.
Is it smart for Archuleta to do an old song or to go for another one? It’s the safe choice, that’s for sure.
-As for the National Enquirer rumors about Jeff Archuleta trying to sign a side endorsement deal for his son have not been substantiated in any more reputable pubs.
And here’s a cool factoid from the story:
The average age of songs sung this year (31.5 years) is the oldest to date and six years older than those in 2007, according to Idol database whatnottosing.com.
MJ also says each David got to pick their favorite out of the top 10 vote-getting songs in the songwriting contest. Good idea!
Tomorrow’s finale will reprise that Celine/Dion live/dead duet with another live/dead combo. They tried to do that with a dead Marvin Gaye and a live Mariah Carey for “Idol Gives Back” but for whatever reason, couldn’t do it. Ryan Seacrest interviews Nigel Lythgoe on his Los Angeles radio show.
-CMT reports that Carrie Underwood will perform her latest single “Last Name” on the finale.
-Scores of former “Idol” contestants converged at a pre-finale party in Los Angeles. EW reports that Ace Young sang five songs.. Among others seen:* Jon Peter Lewis, Chris Sligh, Chris Richardson, Brandon Rogers, Kevin Covais, Justin Guarini, Gina Glocksen, Nadia Turner and Bo Bice.*
-And if you want to chew over a fresh topic— ew.com did a poll for most over-rated “Idol” this year and Jason Castro won, followed by Archuleta. Agree? Disagree?
-Josiah Leming, the talented Tennessee kid who lived in his car and just missed the top 24, has signed a record and publishing deal with Warner Brothers.
-USA Today has a survey broken up by age groups. Cook wins handily, 71 percent. Teens are the only ones favoring Archuleta 58-42. Cook’s strongest demo is 30-39, who supported him 78 percent. And while the rest of us plebes didn’t get any time with the Davids, USA Today (with its 2 million plus readers in print and many more online) got a few quotes.
“I’ve tried not to pay attention to what everybody has been saying. I’ve just wanted to stay myself. I didn’t want anything to get to my head,” Archuleta says, although raves for Imagine in the semifinals had him concerned he might be seen as peaking too early.
Cook says he was fortunate to avoid early scrutiny. “I kind of liked coming in without all the buzz. It allowed me a couple of weeks to find myself,” he says. “Each week, my goal was just, ‘Don’t take last.’ So now I’ve kind of run out of options.”
Lythgoe in the story also said instruments are here to stay, and so are the judges and host.
-With “Extra,” Cowell thinks Cook will win, though it will depend on song choice tonight, he said. He also pulled his punches on Fantasia’s “hot mess” performance last Wednesday: “Fantasia’s a great girl. She doesn’t take herself too seriously. And whether you liked it or hate that performance, at least it was something you could talk about and that’s what I miss.” True—it was hard not to take your eyes off of Fantasia!
Comments
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
May 20, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
great, just all i wanted to see, another live/dead fakeoff…. NOTHING will compare to the Nat/Natalie Cole video, so why do they keep trying???
and D…re Clive… i don’t think anyone ever said he was “out” of it entirely, just that he wasn’t as much involved as previously…i’m trying to remember where, way back, i read or heard that, but with MY memory….hmph…good luck with THAT!
By JTesla
May 20, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
Vote Cook! Vote early and vote often.
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
Well…Rodney was the one who told me Clive Davis was out…so much for trusting Rodney!!! :-)
By flats
May 20, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
4TH WOOOOOHOOOOOOO!!!!!!
By KPH
May 20, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this
Clive is getting old I bet he is cutting back on things these days.
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this
This is kinda cool…it’s a poll taken by USA Today dividing the responders into age groups.
Which of the two finalists do you want to win?
Age 13-19 Archuleta: 58% Cook: 42%
Ages 20 to 29 Archuleta: 31% Cook: 69%
Ages 30 to 39 Archuleta: 22% Cook: 78%
Ages 40 to 49 Archuleta: 25% Cook: 75%
Ages 50 to 59 Archuleta: 29% Cook: 71%
Ages 60 to 69 Archuleta: 36% Cook: 64%
Ages 70 + Archuleta: 48% Cook: 52%
All ages Archuleta: 29% Cook: 71%
Source: USA TODAY survey; analysis by Anthony DeBarros
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
While Cook clearly wins in the poll…let’s not forget that in a poll, you only get to vote once…and that’s not the way it works on Idol!!!!
By Lara
May 20, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
I am not looking forward to the dead/ live performance. I agree, no one can compete with the Natalie/ Nat King Cole performance. The connection in that one between father and daughter would be hard to ever match again.
Anyone have any idea who is first or second tonight? Also, do they have 3 numbers each?
By JTesla
May 20, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
Those poll results will make some people on the blog happy. They confirm the speculation that Archies support base is the very young and the very old.
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
Lara…Archie won the coin toss and will sing second. 3 songs each tonight, one of their own choosing(Archie chose Imagine, Cookie chose U2’s I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For) Clive Davis choice(unknown so far) and the trainwreck original song….the contestants have the top 10 vote getting original songs to choose from.
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
JT…my mom is 87 and she decided David Cook should win during the semi-finals!Don’t worry…she has her own phone line and I’ll be standing over her with a whip!!!! :-)
By Negativo
May 20, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
Deirdre, you are quite the dominatrix.
By flats
May 20, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
Hey yall…just checked ot this mj blog thang..10 posts!!!sorry jimmy,i’ve never posted there buddy.Retail stores are losin bidness.The whole freaking world’s in trouble…DID FLATS CAUSE ALL THIS MADNESS????????/
By flats
May 20, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
Neg….Help me on this one dude!!!!
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this
I try Neg…heaven knows I try!!!!
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
Don’t know if this is true or not but someone has suggested that David Cook will do a duet with Mariah Carey during the results show.
By Making Sense
May 20, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this
I read somewhere that Archie will be performing a duet with Clay Aiken on the results show. Does anyone know if there’s any truth to THAT one? I’d actually be looking forward to that.
By flats
May 20, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
HELLO!!!!!!!
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
Making Sense…I didn’t hear that one but I DID hear that the top 5 will each perform a duet with one of this year’s mentors.(I’m assuming a duet with Andrew Lloyd Webber will involve him playing the piano rather than singing.)
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
It is being reported but not confirmed that the coronation songs(the awful, makes your ears bleed, trainwreck of an original song) will be Here I Am for Archie and No Turning Back for Cookie. You might be able to still find those songs on American Idol’s web site. If you would actually want to… :-(
By flats
May 20, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
And I get blamed for running people off!
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
May 20, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
oh wow…could you imagine Cookie singing Music of the Night with ALW playing the piano??? MMMMMMMMMMMelt!!!
shudder on the plastic songs, D!!! no thanks, i’d rather be “surprised” coff coff
D, with regard to Clive, and Rodney telling you he was “out of the picture” … i dunno! i don’t remember when or where i heard or read it, but someone said, i THINK, that Clive was still involved, just not “as” involved, LOL. that’s all i remember … sad to say!
ok, boss is cranking it out, see you guys tonight, i guess! oh. wait. i mean the work, the WORK!
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this
Are there any Missouri residents reading this blog right now?
I was born in Kansas City and did some of my growing up in St Joe..but if I was from anywhere else, I’d still be voting for David Cook tonight.
If you’re listening out there Missouri, let’s show Utah what the Show-Me state can do!!!!!!
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
And rumors are floating that Archie will be singing America with Neil Diamond on the results extravaganza(can’t really call it a ‘show’)
By dolfin
May 20, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this
Maybe Monchichi could duet with Andrew Lloyd Webber on his knee as a ventriloquist dummy, Sir Webber could pull it off!
By mvt
May 20, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
dolfin, actually that was funny. not nice, but funny.
By bigdaddy
May 20, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
Any truth to the rumor that Stage Dad Aurchuleta went and pimped his son to Ford Motor Company?
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
bigdaddy…that has been reported in a couple of tabloids but I haven’t heard any confirmation yet.
By Negativo
May 20, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
Dolfin, that was friggin hysterical!
By JTesla
May 20, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
Regarding a new addition: “ew.com did a poll for most over-rated “Idol” this year and Jason Castro won, followed by Archuleta. Agree? Disagree?”
Agree, on both counts. How did Jason even crack the top 8? I can’t wait until tomorrow night, so that I can safely say “this is the last time I’ll have to look at Jason Castro” Fade away Spicoli, fade away.
By flats
May 20, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
Neg…where u been?I needed some back up earlier.
By Steeler5812
May 20, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this
Hey everybody,
Depending on how much of the song he sings, Imagine may not be the best song for David A. Given that the south has a strong voting block, “imagine there’s no heaven, no religion too” might cost him some votes.
Here’s hoping anyway! Anything that would keep the most overrated idol ever from winning!
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
May 20, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
let me add, just onnnnne more time
V!O!T!E! C!O!O!K!
By Negativo
May 20, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
I’m here, Flats. Do I need to punk somebody?
By War Eagle
May 20, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
flats, just keep being yourself. For each person that you offend, there is another getting a good laugh.
VOTE COOK!!!
By Making Sense
May 20, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
Steeler - David A. left the “imagine there’s no heaven…” verse out of the song the 1st time he sang it. I suspect that he would do the same tonight, just to play it safe. Then again, who knows which way “daddy dearest” will sway him?
By flats
May 20, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
Thanks Eagle!!!Neg..His name was jimmy.I mentioned sports and all hell broke loose!!!
By Steeler5812
May 20, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
Making Sense - you’re right about the first time he performed it. They usually have more time in these finales. That’s why I wondered if he would risk singing the whole song. Guess we’ll find out tonight!
By JLM
May 20, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
Here’s hoping David Cook just absolutely blows everyone’s minds tonight with some amazing performances! We all know he can do it!
VOTE COOK!
By Negativo
May 20, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
Archuletta molests dead puppies! Vote Cook!
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
One of the stars appearing on the finale extravaganza has the codename Virgin Airlines…..my guess for the ‘biggest star in the world’ is Madonna.
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this
While everyone usually has great comments, Flats, WE, and Neg keep us all coming back for more!
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this
Other performers during the extravaganza could be Donna Summer, ZZ Top and Seal….the least they could do is let Seal perform considering how many times we’ve heard Idol wannabees sing Kiss From a Rose.
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
May 20, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
!V!O!T!E!
!C!O!O!K!
yeaaaaaaaaa TEAM!!! GOoooooOOOO COOK!!
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
May 20, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this
ewwwwwwwww, Deirdre! i hope NOT!!! LOL!!!
By War Eagle
May 20, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
Thanks Dawn.
LOL @ Neg
VOTE COOK!!!
By flats
May 20, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
Extravaganza?LOL!!!!
By flats
May 20, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
Thank you Dawn.
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
War Eagle and Negativo always leave me wanting more, Dawn! :-) I love their senses of humor!
By linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
May 20, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
oh my ewww comment was about Madonna, btw, if anyone cares!
see you guys tonight…i’m OUTA here!
By Negativo
May 20, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
I will be having a chicken wings and beer Idol party tonight. That means I won’t get to post my thoughts until around midnight. They should be heavily beer infused, so consider yourselves warned.
By Justin
May 20, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this
Is the whole Josiah thing STILL going around?? We knew him for literally like a week, cus wasn’t he one of the last auditioners? honestly..
i can’t wait for the show this week…! just kinda disappointed it’s over already…this has to be the fastest it has gone by for me…
By JTesla
May 20, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this
Josiah is probably still crying from the last time we saw him.
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
Neg…you’re having a party and you didn’t invite us????
All I remember about Josiah is that he had a nice voice but he was arrogant about it and he cried whenever somebody didn’t think he was perfect.
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this
Adam Cook, David’s cancer-stricken brother, is expected to be in the audience tonight.
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this
I think I remember reading somewhere that when Josiah didn’t make it, there was some public opinion that he should have made it and they were angry that AI didn’t put him through. Just goes to show that the sympathy vote does go a long way. Another example - having to sell your horse to try out for AI.
By David Criger
May 20, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this
The best performance of the season was Chikezie’s Top 12 night when he sang “She’s A Woman”. That was a super rock, class act. Wish he could have made it to the final four at least.
By JTesla
May 20, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this
Oh how better this competition would have been if Chikezie would have made it instead of Jason or Brooke. At least he knew how to change things up.
By War Eagle
May 20, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
Who’s Chikezie?
By JTesla
May 20, 2008 6:25 PM | Link to this
WE: It doesn’t matter, tomorrow night we get to see Kristy Lee Cook again. That’s what matters.
By War Eagle
May 20, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
LOL, JT. I’ve missed her.
Everyone go ahead charge your phones. I don’t want to hear any excuses as to why you weren’t able to vote.
VOTE COOK!
By ,,,=^..^=,,, from home
May 20, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
Pardon the play on the commercial but….
Lookie Lookie Lookie [Vote for] Cookie!!!
with apologies to Cooks Pest Control, lest i get anyone in trouble for plagiarism!!!
By War Eagle
May 20, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this
Any Archie fans want to give a little support to your favorite?
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this
I don’t think there are any Archie fans on this blog.
By War Eagle
May 20, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
Guess not.
By JTesla
May 20, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
The Archie fans are rushing to get their homework done so they don’t get grounded from texting.
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this
Lots of bad storms out there right now. Just had one blow through here. Everyone OK?
By War Eagle
May 20, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
They haven’t made it my way yet. Hopefully they won’t.
By flats
May 20, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
ATTENTION ALL MUSHDAWGS!!!!Dont forget to check out ESPNU during idol commercials!!!
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
We may all be watching ESPN. Fox is doing the weather - covering all the warnings, etc. What if there IS no AI at 8:00?
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this
Never mind - Fox just announced AI will be on as scheduled.
By Tami
May 20, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this
looks like no worries there, DawnH!
By Tami
May 20, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
really dumb intro
By Marquez
May 20, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this
Who cares?
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this
I agree with you Tami - but I also think Ryan Seacrest is / usually has a dumb intro!
By Tami
May 20, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
yep…but I think the Rocky thing is a bit OVERdone…LOL. Let’s get down to the performances already!!! Just a little anxious to get this thing going.
By War Eagle
May 20, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this
Dawn, How do you feel about Ryan?
By Songluvr
May 20, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this
This is exciting! I hate it that it’s getting over so quickly. : (
By Tami
May 20, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
not bad for song #1, DC
By flats
May 20, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this
GEORGIA’S CURRENTLY LEADING 2 OF THE 3 DOUBLES SETS.
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
WE - I still think Ryan is an idiot! Also, what year is Randy in?
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
DAMN! Archie was really good.
By GT
May 20, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this
Little David needs to remember that he has a microphone in his hand when talking to Ryan. Simon playing up D.A., but I thought it was a draw. Still going to vote for Cook since I wouldn’t buy D.A.’s music.
By archiesmunchkins
May 20, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
Archie is da BOMB tonight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
He is bringin’ it!!!!
By Tami
May 20, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
Got an observation folks…want to see if anyone else is noticing…doesn’t look like DC wants to win, does it? It would be the SMARTEST approach to this finale. He’s trying, but the songs aren’t matching with his voice and he’s not really bringing it full on. I’m thinking that he doesn’t want to deal with the inherent teenybop pop stuff he’ll have to deal with if he won. Is it just me, or does anyone else sense this as well?
By GT
May 20, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
You have to pick a song that was in the contest and Simon picks on the song David picked. Where did D.A. get the anchor jacket??? Randy and his “phone book”.. Glad Simon doesn’t vote.
By War Eagle
May 20, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
Tami, I was thinking the same thing
By as
May 20, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this
Tami-I concur!
By War Eagle
May 20, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
LOL GT, I was wondering about the anchor jacket too.
By Tami
May 20, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
Hmmm….nice to know someone else is noticing this besides me, WE
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this
I think Kids R Us sells the anchor jackets.
By MIke S
May 20, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this
Round One - TIE
Round Two - David Cook, his song sucked less.
By Tami
May 20, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this
Hmmm….nice to know someone else is noticing this besides me, WE
By Suzann R
May 20, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
Is it my imagination, or does every song David Archuleta sings sound the same??
By flats
May 20, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
Texas draws 1st blood!!!Longhorns up 1-0.Singles play up next.Dawgs need to take 4 of the 6 sets to win the 2008 mens ncaa tennis championship!!!Dawgs fought hard in doubles play,came up a little short!
By Suzann R
May 20, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
Is it my imagination, or does every song David Archuleta sings sound the same??
By Tami
May 20, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
I LOVED DC’s last song…not sure I agree with Simon, and I usually do about 60% of the time
By GT
May 20, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
Last song. Both can sing and David Cook will be singing and selling for a long time whether he wins or not. David A. won’t sell as well but since both get contracts, Sony wins either way. Cook was great on his last song. Emotion got to him knowing it was his last on the show. Good point by David not to sing something he had already done like Simon wanted him to do… Little David doing a repeat will be safe for him. He is not the Beatles and I didn’t really care that much for it.
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
Did you think Imagine could be any slower than when John L sang it? Yes, Suzann, everything he sings sounds the same - and they are all painfully slow.
By Suzann R
May 20, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this
Is it my imagination or does every song that David Archuleta sings sound the same? Granted he does have a good voice, but who wants to hear an album that sounds entirely the same?
By Tami
May 20, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
good news so far, bloggers! I got through for DC ONE time…all 3 lines are mega busy
By WHY??
May 20, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
WHY are they pimping David Archuleta tonight??? I mean is he seriously going to win this whole thing?? He did halfway decent tonight but AI is “about to become” a laughing stock!
By boots
May 20, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
The fix is on. I think the producers want David A to win since he would most benefit from the American Idol boost and David C. would rather be a “free spirit” and not have to put up with all the crap they have to deal with.
Just watching Ruben sing, and the dude still weighs about 350. Like him but I am worried for him. He might eat David A backstage before realizing he isnt a pig in a blanket…
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
Round 1 - TIED (and OMG how I hate to admit it).
Round 2 - David C. Archie played it very safe with yet another slow, slow, slow song.
Round 3 - David C. Archie played it very safe with yet another slow, slow, slow, slow, slow, slow, slow, slow, slow song.
By Yepyep
May 20, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
I’m sorry, but if Archie is so into the song Imagine, why doesn’t he sing the entire song. He ignores the first two verses as they are against his religion, but that is the real meaning of the song. I hope Cook wins. Archie has an amazing voice, but he has no personality.
By grim(reaper)
May 20, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
Can DA make it through the show without shedding another tear?
By Yepyep
May 20, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
I’m sorry, but if Archie is so into the song Imagine, why doesn’t he sing the entire song. He ignores the first two verses as they are against his religion, but that is the real meaning of the song. I hope Cook wins. Archie has an amazing voice, but he has no personality.
By nanny
May 20, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
vote for cook. archie baby sounds the same every time - another taylor hicks. belongs in a broadway show. cook is really talented and diverse. randy has had something in for cook all this time. vote for cook.
By Ruben wow..
May 20, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
Ruben Studdard was a surprise. Id idn’t know he would be performing. He had lost a good deal of weight at one point and still isn’t as big as he was (or maybe I just haven’t seen him in so long that I forgot). Anyway - I enjoyed his song for the closer!
By archiemunchkins
May 20, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
I likes ‘em both, but the munchkin broke bad tonight!! He was bringin’ it all nite long. First time, but I’m gonna have to vote for him for 4 hours!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Tami
May 20, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
boots….TOO funny. DA might be a mighty tasty snack for him. I LOVE Ruben, though. He was my pick all throughout season 2. The only time my all-season pick ever won. Usher’s on DWTS right now
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
OK…I’m going to say this and duck while y’all throw stuff at me. Archie was better than Cook tonight!!! Where did THAT voice come from and why didn’t he use it all season?
Before you get really angry…I’m voting for Cook because he’s done better overall than Archie…but tonight was definitely the kid’s night. If he wins, it won’t be bad for Idol or David Cook.
By War Eagle
May 20, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this
Storms are moving my way. I going to log off for a while.
By MIke S
May 20, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this
Well that was a totally underwhelming final. The two best songs were the Clive davis selection, and then it went downhill fast, and ended with a an Archie SNOOZEFEST.
David Cook - I Still Haven’t Found what I’m Looking For - Excellent choice by Clive, and a wonderful Performance by Cookie.
David Archuleta - Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me - Possibly Archie’s best performance of the year, and a Tie with Cook for best of the night.
David Cook - The World I Know - Absolutely Beautiful understated vocal by Cookie. great song, but he should have chosen a ROCKER in this slot.
David Cook - Dream Big - Cookie salvaged what he could from this dog of a song. Absolutely inane lyrics, but I did like the beat and grunge vibe David gave it.
David Archuleta - Imagine - Imagine this song ending, it is going way too long. I think my ears are bleeding, from this d** song. Archie took a slow balled, and SLOWED IT DOWN EVEN MORE. BLECH.
David Archuleta - In This Moment - ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!! Huh, wha…. Sleep inducing suckage of a song.
Round One, the Clive Davis picks I had a tie, but Round Two and three go to David Cook mainly because I was at least able to stay awake during his performances.
Oh, for the days of Ruben vs Clay or Carrie vs Bo… Because this “heavyweight” bout was a DOG!
By Janie
May 20, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
David Cook is the bomb - buy his music any day. David A - BORING
By nanny
May 20, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
Everyone has been all about archie. He is boring. He will never make it. He will be just like Rueben and Taylor. Cook has what it takes to become a real star. vote for cook.
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
I thought that this was one of the best finals ever! Two extremely talented young men singing some good songs(except for those two pieces of crap in the middle)and putting themselves on the line in front of millions of people.
They both deserve the good things that are coming to them!
By Tami
May 20, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
ok…I’m ready to buy a DC CD…when’s he going into the studio??!!!
I’ve gotten through only 4 times for DC tonight…hope that’s a good thing
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
Cook’s going to be a ‘real star’ whether he wins or not. But VOTE COOK anyway.
By Matt
May 20, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this
VOTE COOK! I love how the judges tried to give this one to Archie tonight. He has zero stage presence and even less personality. His dad is a typical stage parent that should be drug out into the alley and kicked in the groin. David Cook is the American Idol on every level and will outsell Archie in records by the millions.
By Woodpappy
May 20, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
I don’t care what the judges say….I’m voting my ass off for David Cook !
By Howdy
May 20, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
David Cook picked a TERRIBLE song to finish. I am a big Collective Soul fan but that was not the song to wrap up the season. He should have put another spin on a popular song and he would have coasted to victory. He could have picked countless other songs from Pearl Jam, Sublime, Radiohead(Creep), or so many others to close out strong. What a major DISAPPOINTMENT. I think a taste of success went straight to his head.
By Janie
May 20, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
Feel bad that David C had to sing that 2nd song - those songs suck so bad. I bet he hated it too :)
OMG David A is so freaking boring and every song sounds the same - what is up with the judges getting behind David A tonight. On Ellen Degeneres tonight Simon was all about David C being the next idol
By AL
May 20, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
Unfortunately, I’ve been able to get through for DC multiple times. I think Archie will probably win, which should make the judges happy since they seemed rather biased toward Archie. He does have a great voice, but he bores me to tears.
By Justin
May 20, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
Uh ok. thought so…
1a) David Cook “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For”- Randy said, “nice way to start the dual of 2007!” Yes, it was. Wait, what?? 2007? Get it straight Mr. Jackson. Nice performance, but just OK at that moment.
2a) David Archuleta “Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me”- Man, when it started I said whoopee, same old same old, then I was wowed…this was certainly one of his bests and the judges summed it up for me.
Round one for me: David Archuleta.
1b) David Cook “Dream Big”- I liked the performance, but yeah, it definitely wasn’t a winner’s song. I’m 100% shocked at Simon’s NON-biasedness. Usually it’s beaming at this point, so I figured it’d come on the last song, let it be great.
2b) David Archuleta “In This Moment”- Another fairly good one! Man I’m proud of this kid and it’s weird saying that because I’m basically the same age as him, almost. I regret what I said about him losing to Syesha, though I still want her in the finals there. Just couldn’t work out I guess. Again with Simon and the non-biasedness. I’m shocked. Next is “Imagine”. He’s sure to win now.
Round 2 for me: Tied.
1c) David Cook “The World I Know”- I think this is one of his bests. Simon Cowell: I am shocked with you! This would be one of those flashbacks to the past couple weeks when one moment Paula was lovin’ Syesha, then totally turned on her the next week. Ok guys, I may loan a couple votes, or non, cause he sure ain’t gonna win after this next song. Sorry Cook- I feel for you. Sad, but either way I was fine with the winner out of the 2, just so darn predictable…
3c) David Archuleta “Imagine”- Haha, smart that this came last. Thought I was hoping for a Cook victory, I guess Archuleta will take the title now….. Good job once again. I’m down with his win I suppose. I mean it’s best to declare him winner anyway, because we don’t want Mr. Jeffy there to blow up the Nokia Theater tomorrow night, now, do we? And I mean that litterally. Randy mentioned, or perhaps yelled, that this show is all about finding the best singer. Oh really Randy? Then why were y’all pimping Hicks to win over Katharine McPhee in the finals a couple of years ago? Huh? No explanation?
Round 3- Tied.
Congrats Davids! (But this final was no different than any other!)
Looking forward to tomorrow.
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
I honestly won’t feel bad for DC if he doesn’t win. I suspect he will be better off if he isn’t up the a$$ of AI. I figure DA will make his little CD which will sell about 200,000 copies and we will only hear about him on an episode of Idols-Where Are They Now. Can you see him on a stage like Clarkson or Underwood. It’s just laughable.
By ESPdeb
May 20, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
Archuleta was the better performer on tonight’s show.
I think he will win.
By Chuck
May 20, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
so how big a check did Nokia write to turn the Kodak Theatre into the Nokia Theatre?
PS Loved the comment about Jeffy blowing up the theatre!!
By Mac
May 20, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
Was rooting for Cook but he was UNDERwhelming tonight. Didn’t seem like he was hungry for it. Why not rock the house down for a clear choice? I hate to admit it….Archie was a better voice tonight, though every song was the same.
By Songluvr
May 20, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this
I LOVE David Cook and he is still my pick to take it all. Having said that, I remain puzzled by all the blatant hating on David Archuletta on this blog. Anybody who contends that kid is not talented needs to clean out their ears.
Be fair, yall! He did an incredible job tonight. I’m just sayin…
By Justin
May 20, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
Ok, I’m not toooooo shocked, but David Cook is on top on Dialidol! By a mere 3%! Wow…that’s quite a bit, sorta. That’s quite shocking. I’m sure they will have a most votes ever for this show. Weird though, won’t that be shocking just the fact if David C. DOES win? Weird…but that’s ok, whoever it is, good for them. It’s true, one winner out of 24, You hve got to be greeat
By Songluvr
May 20, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this
Oh I forgot to mention… Did anybody else notice that Josiah-the-crying-guy-that-lived-in-the-car was among those featured on the big screens during Ruben’s song?
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
Thank you Songluvr!!!! My sentiments, exactly. I’m voting Cook all the way but IMO, Archie won the night!
By DawnH
May 20, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
Songluvr, I don’t think anyone would disagree that DA has a great voice. However, he seems to only sing slow boring songs. He has no personality and no versatility. I think he did a great job on Don’t Let the Sun Go Down. But with that exception, it seems that every song sounds the same. He is just boring.
By Samantha
May 20, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
This is my first post although I have been reading all season. I am really disappointed in this finale. Why can’t the damn judges keep their mouths shut for one night? We all know what they think. We are at the point now where the audience can make an independent decision without hearing their expert BS. Archuletta is a great singer but he is a one trick pony, another Clay Aiken or if he is really lucky another Michael Buble. Cook has the singing ability along with the musical talent sustain a long successful career. I have no plans to ever purchase any music from David Archuletta but have already download Davd Cook’s music and will continue to do so. I wish AI would have left the kiddie’s on AI Junior.
By Songluvr
May 20, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
Glad I’m not alone in my thoughts, D. I mean, we all have our favorites davidcookdavidcookdavidcook but we should try to be honest here and give credit where credit is due.
I do think Simon was right about Cookie’s last song. It would have been phenomenal if he had taken some random love song and cooked it his way … I know the song is tired by now but imagine him doing ‘My Heart Will Go On.’ I get chills just thinking about it.
By Songluvr
May 20, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
Thank you Dawn for your response. I get what you’re saying, and that makes sense to me. But there have been puhlenty of posts against Archie that didn’t at all sound reasonable like that. Ya know?
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
Samantha…Simon was on TV all day today saying he thought David Cook should win, that Archie wouldn’t be able to handle anything but the singing. But Archie WAS better tonight. I still believe David Cook should win…I just think the judges were being honest about tonight’s performances.
And why did you take so long to post???? You are welcome to join us anytime!!!!
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
Justin…apparently in your part of western NY they don’t check dialidol as much as we do down here in the Atlanta area….I haven’t been able to get on all evening. Keep us updated, ok?! Thanks!
By Karen
May 20, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
Will somebody please tell David A to not say “chew.” The word is “you.” I’m trying to vote for David C.
By Mac
May 20, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
Paula is wasted air. Can’t they find a good looking judge who can actually CRITIQUE a performance? I haven’t heard one thing from her ALL SEASON that had any substance whatsoever. Lots of other has-been singers who would love the job and DO IT BETTER.
By as
May 20, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this
I have been voting for Contestant #1 Cook all night. Dial Idol now has him ahead by almost 5%. They both are talented singers, but whose album would you buy? No question for me…Cook! Keep dialing.
By Samantha
May 20, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
I feel that (regardless of who was better) the judges should keep their comments to themselves at this point. Let the audience and the final two enjoy the night without hearing from them. Everyone knows both of these guys are talented and at this point who really cares about who gives the better performance on one given night. I am voting based on my preference of all performances collectively, all season long. I prefer David Cook even though David Archuletta may have sang better tonight. I also feel David Cook is the more talented performer. ….and I heard Simon was on TV saying the David Cook should win. Makes me wonder if they aren’t using a little psychology on the audience by overly praising Archuletta.
By Songluvr
May 20, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
Right now, dialidol has these scores:
Cookie - 56.5
Archie - 51.76
By as
May 20, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
Criticize Paula all you want, but tonight was Randy’s goof. 2007?? He is out of touch with the voters. ;-)
By Justin
May 20, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
Well then why don’t you check dialidol ? lol… well my comps. going slow so i would assume cooks still on top………. its looking pretty much like a tie right now.. hhaaha…weird final.
By as
May 20, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
Crap, I said Album. I am showing my age! LOL
By as
May 20, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Dial Idol Time: 10:21pm Cookie: 54.58 Archie: 48.81
Cookies is pulling ahead. It is a school night. Maybe Archies fans are in bed.
By Janie
May 20, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
That was my thinking Samantha - I saw Simon on Ellen tonight and he was all David C - playing reverse phsycology with us tonight ????(bad spelling )
By Songluvr
May 20, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
Now on dialidol I’m getting this message: The request cannot be processed at this time. The amount of traffic exceeds the Web site’s configured capacity. Daayyumm.
By Negativo
May 20, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
Quick comment: Arch literally nauseated me. As Dawn said many weeks ago, I felt the Belushi impulse to smash a guitar over Arch’s head every time he sang a sappy, overly dramatic ballad.
Cook was awesome, the judges blow, and I’ll be back later for more ‘tude…
By tanning lotion
May 20, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this
I hope that David Cook wins. I can’t stand David A. and his dad.
tanning lotion
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
as…most of us here are old enough to know what you meant. :-)
By tanning lotion
May 20, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
I called in for David Cook over 50 times tonight. I have never done that. That is how much more I would like to see him win.
tanning lotion
By Deirdre
May 20, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
American Idol crashed dialidol!!! :-)
By as
May 20, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
Dial Idol 10:30pm Cookie:53.54 Archie:46.88
PS…Archie is predicted to be voted off, as David hasn’t hit # 2 yet.
By Janie
May 20, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
what is dialidol saying now - GO DAVID C
By male enhancement
May 20, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
It is great to hear about Josiah. He seems like a nice kid. I hope that David Cook pulls it off tonight.
penis enlargement pills
By Samantha
May 20, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
Dial Idol has Cook 53, Archuletta 46. I really hope David Cooks wins. I just don’t think I can stomach a Archuletta winning moment tomorrow night. Seacrest will need to hold him up when he passes out.
By tanning lotion
May 20, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
Go Cook go. I would really hate to see Archuleta win this thing.
indoor tanning lotion
By Justin
May 20, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
lol “Archie fans are in bed, it’s a school night”
Well NOW Archie is predicted to be VOTED OFF!! Wow….I thought he had enough to keep him in to win, i’m minorly shocked.
By as
May 20, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
Thanks, D!! Did you ever watch Across the Universe? I know we discussed it a while back. The funny thin is CDs is even outdated now. I should’ve said “who would you download?” I’ll catch on! :-) 10:39 DIAL IDOL…DC 52.47 DA 45.29
By Janie
May 20, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
Can you vote as many times as you want?
By as
May 20, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
Correction…The funny thing is CDs are even outdated now. Sorry guys, I am super sleepy after Da’s ballads!
Dial Idol DC52.12 DA44.76
By flats
May 20, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
DAWGS WIN THE 2008 MENS TENNIS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!!!!!THANKS MUSHDAWGS!!!
By Tami
May 20, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this
don’t let up, DC fans. The West Coast is about to watch AI if I’m not mistaken.
By as
May 20, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
Dial Idol
10:52pm
Dc=51.44
Da=43.42
By as
May 20, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
Dial Idol 10:56pm Dc 51.16 Da 42.84
By Tami
May 20, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
girl power! Kristi wins DWTS!!!
By