American Idol

Tonight, they’ll sing songs from the year they were born. It should be a good night for American Idol. At least they’re not going for, yet, another week of Beatles songs. That really hasn’t worked for some of them.

7:04 p.m.

Ramiele Malubay

First up is Ramiele Malubay singing one of my personal favorite songs of all time — Heart’s Alone. It’s going to be a tough performance for Ramiele — born in 1986 — since the song is so well associated with Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood, who knocked it out of the park during her season. Ramiele did an OK job, but not good enough. She completely struggled on the high notes, making it seem a little too karaoke.

“It wasn’t the right song choice for you,” Randy said. “… It was a little pitchy, all over the place.”

“I’m really glad America has heard you sing and how big your voice is,” Paula said.

“I don’t think it was as bad as Randy said,” Simon said. “… The truth is, Ramiele, after what you sang last week … then you’re going to get through, again, this week on that performance. No question about it.”

7:12 p.m.

Jason Castro

Not only is Jason Castro celebrating the year of his birth, but he also is celebrating his actual birthday tonight. He chose Sting’s Fragile as the song from 1987 (I’m feeling super old right now) to represent his birth year. Even though it’s his birthday, I have to say Jason is continuing to slip a little bit in this competition. Tonight is no exception. I’m not sure what’s going on, but maybe he’s a little too focused on turning 21 and not on his performance. Not that it was terrible, I just think it could have been better.

“That was a very good choice of song,” Randy said. “I thought it was alright. … I’m still waiting to see that jump out vocal performance.”

“I think you’re staying true to who you are,” Paula said. “I agree, I don’t think we saw anything different.”

“Jason, I think you’ve had two bad weeks,” Simon said. “And I think it’s time you start taking this a little more seriously. … Everything about it was too laid back.”

Syesha Mercado

Now it’s Syesha Mercado’s turn. She also was born in 1987, and her song choice to celebrate her birth year is If I Were Your Woman. OK, now this is the Syesha I was praising early on this season. After a bit of a comeback last week, Syesha really proves this week why she’s still around. This is, without question, her best performance since cracking the Top 24.

“You know this is great, man,” Randy said. “… I think this is the best I’ve ever heard you sing, including when you auditioned.”

“What’s great about this performance, Syesha, is this is going to be the moment where everybody remembers Syesha flipped it,” Paula said. “… Everything was pitch perfect.”

“Syesha, it was definitely the best so far, but we’re only three in,” Simon said. “I think there is a limit on your vocal, and I think that song stretched it.”

7:27 p.m.

Chikezie Eze

Chikezie grew up singing in a home surrounded by Nigerian music. Tonight, he celebrates the year of his birth with a performance of If Only for One Night. While he said he was a little nervous about singing another ballad, Chikezie is delivering what I would say is one of his better performances. Then, again, he’s had a rocky year for me. But tonight, he’s doing quite well. Will he win? Not a chance. But this showing certainly could help him rebound and make it back for at least one more week.

“I didn’t love this for you,” Randy said. “It was just kind of boring for me, dawg.”

“I think you did a great job,” Paula said.

“Chikezie, I think you sang it well,” Simon said. “Having said that, I thought the performance, actually, was very cheesy.” (Um, Chikezie is cheesy? That’s almost too easy.)

7:39 p.m.

Brooke White

She was born in 1983, and it wasn’t all that long after that when Brooke White started playing the piano. Tonight, she’ll be playing the piano for a performance of Every Breath You Take by the Police. Um, uh oh. Brooke restarted the song just two notes into it. Could that goof up be a problem for the singer? Maybe. The bigger problem likely will be the fact her performance tonight is a little bland and not all that special. It certainly won’t be remembered — unless people talk about the fact she had to start over after the first couple of notes, and that certainly is possible. Definitely not Brooke’s best showing at all.

“Very interesting song choice,” Randy said. “… I almost would have loved it if you would have stayed without the band.”

“I enjoyed this performance so much more than last week’s,” Paula said. “… We always want contestants that are unique and have their own voice. And you do.”

“Brooke, I totally agree with Randy,” Simon said. “If you would have stayed just you on the piano, that would have sounded much more cool. … Definitely good enough to keep you in for another week, but you’ve just got to work this out.”

7:49 p.m.

Michael Johns

Michael Johns is up. He was born in 1978, and tonight he sings We Will Rock You from Queen. OK, so for those of you still holding on to the fact you think Michael deserves to be in this competition, I give you this performance as further evidence I just don’t get it. This is a complete mess, if you ask me. It’s screamy — and not in a good rock ‘n’ roll way — and he’s all over the place. But the audience is screaming, so who knows?

“Finally, finally you believe in yourself and you use that big old voice,” Randy said. “That was the best performance, for me, since you’ve been on this show.”

“This was your moment, your shining moment,” Paula said.

“Michael, this is the first time with you I saw star potential,” Simon said. “… Tonight, you just got it right.”

OK, so maybe I have a mental block against the Aussie. I promise I don’t have anything against people from Down Under. Hmmm.

Carly Smithson

Carly Smithson was born in 1983 in, as you should know by now, it was in Ireland. Tonight, she celebrates her birth year with a great classic — Total Eclipse of the Heart. If the judges think Michael Johns found his place, this song certainly is a perfect fit for Carly. While I think she came in a split second late in a couple of places, I definitely am glad to see Carly performing this type of songs.

“Very interesting song choice for me,” Randy said. “I like it, I didn’t love it.”

“You probably could take every song I’m not crazy about but make me a believer and go buy it,” Paula said.

“Carly, something didn’t quite work,” Simon said. “… I didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I was going to enjoy it. … Something didn’t quite work there.”

8:03 p.m.

David Archuleta

David Archuleta is missing school while being on Idol. It could mean he will miss his prom. Awww. Little David. Tonight he celebrates his birth year, 1990 — um, yeah. So, what song did he choose? It’s You’re the Voice, an odd song choice if you ask me. (Do you think his dad, Jeff, screamed at him before the show to sing this song? I think he may have picked this song … and it’s not the best choice.) While the performance is sufficient, it felt a little too much like a Michael W. Smith concert from 1990, and that’s not how you win Idol — even if you are favored to win. I just didn’t get this song choice.

“It was a strange song choice for me … but it proves, once again, if you can sing, you can sing whatever,” Randy said.

“I think all of us was trying to figure that one out,” Paula said.

“I actually didn’t like the performance at all,” Simon said. “I thought it was reminiscent of a theme park performance.”

8:14 p.m.

Kristy Lee Cook

Kristy Lee Cook’s year of birth is 1984. Tonight she sings the Lee Greenwood hit God Bless the USA. It may seem like an odd song choice at first, but I actually think it’s one of the best moves Kristy has made this season. It’s definitely a country song, and it works well with her voice. Plus, the patriotic card? That never hurts. The song isn’t a huge challenge, but she handled it well. This is the kind of stuff Kristy can sing and not be out of her vocal league. Will America be impressed? There’s no telling, really.

“Great song choice,” Randy said. “I thought it was a very nice performance from you.”

“It was a good choice, a very good choice for you,” Paula said. “… Your voice is sounding much stronger. You’re growing.”

“Kristy, your best performance by a mile, I think,” Simon said. “I have to say, that was the most clever song choice I have heard in years.”

8:21 p.m.

David Cook

Closing out the night is David Cook. This rocker on the rise could give David Archuleta a run for his money when it comes to stealing America’s hearts. He was born in 1982, and he’s been rocking the guitar for most of those years. Tonight, he performs Billie Jean, but not in the style of Michael Jackson. This, in fact, was another brilliant move by David. His rendition tonight really shows off his edgy rock voice, and the song is recognizable. And, just like the patriotic rule, that always helps contestants. But, when it comes right down to it, David really is the best contestant in the competition at this point. There’s no question about it.

“David Cook, I gotta say, you’re probably the most original, the most bold contestant we’ve ever had,” Randy said. “… You might be the one to win the whole lot. Hot. Blazing, molten hot.”

“You do it right to the edge without going over,” Paula said. “I think you’re brilliant.”

“David, that was brave,” Simon said. “… I have to tell you, it was amazing.”

WHO GETS MY VOTE: His first name is David. But his last name isn’t Archuleta. David Cook proved, once again, he has more to offer than anyone else in the competition. Even the youngest member of the group can’t stand up to this kind of talent.

WHO SHOULD GO: This is a tough call, but I think Ramiele Malubay — being sick or not — really struggled more than anyone. She just hasn’t pulled together a really memorable performance yet in the finals. That being said, this could be a really interesting week. This week’s elimination may surprise us all, especially considering a couple of the weaker contestants had a strong week … and the mid-level singers didn’t all show their best. Now isn’t the time to just get by. So, don’t be too surprised if you see someone like Jason Castro or Brooke White in the bottom three.

American Idol, David Cook, David Archuleta, Chikezie Eze, Jason Castro, Michael Johns, Kristy Lee Cook, Syesha Mercado, Brooke White, Carly Smithson, Ramiele Malubay

On Wednesday night’s elimination episode, American Idol alum Kimberley Locke will make her return to the Idol stage. And she’ll be wearing a special dress designed by none other than Project Runway’s most recent winner, Christian Siriano.

Siriano, 21, sailed through most every round of competition to become Runway’s Season 4 winning designer. Since he took the title, he has been busy making appearance around the country. He also recently made an appearance on Bravo’s Make Me A Supermodel.

Locke, who finished in third place — behind winner Ruben Studdard and runner-up Clay Aiken — on Season 2 of Idol, released her latest recording, Based on a True Story, in 2007.

Kristy Lee Cook, now a Top 10 finalist on American Idol, once was signed to a contract with Britney Spears’ production company.

Britney Spears, fresh off of a great performance on How I Met Your Mother, seems to be making the rounds with all of the finalists this season on American Idol.

Spears, who became a pop superstar after her time as a Mouseketeer, was the one to sign Top 10 finalist Kristy Lee Cook to a recording contract when the Idol contestant was 17. Cook was the first artist signed to Britney’s production company. And Britney even promised to help Cook out by appearing in her debut video.

But, in 2003, Cook asked to be released from her contract to work toward other musical interests. Of course, those interests didn’t really amount to much … until now.

Earlier this season, it was announced Top 24 Idol finalist Robbie Carrico, who allegedly dated Miss Spears for a short period of time in the late 1990s. And, while Britney really didn’t have anything to do with her, contestant Kady Malloy did her best work behind the scenes with spot-on Britney impersonations.

I guess it’s only a matter of time before we find out Jason Castro’s dreads actually are made with the hair Britney shaved from her head last year … or maybe not.

American Idol, Britney Spears, Kady Malloy, Robbie Carrico, Kristy Lee Cook

David Archuleta

David Archuleta is becoming a household name, thanks to American Idol. But as a finalist, he committed one of the biggest sins during his performance of We Can Work It Out — he forgot the lyrics. And even though they gave him a slap on the wrist, the Idol judges really didn’t scold him the way they have done to other contestants in the past.

Now people are blaming David’s dad, Jeff, who apparently yelled at him, bringing him to tears, just before the show. It seems Jeff Archuleta, 40, was a little worried about his son’s talent matching his performance when it came time for the live performance. Of course, the judges still brushed it under the rug and excused it because David’s just a kid.

The truth is, they wouldn’t have given that kind of wiggle room to other teens in the competition — Do you think Jordin Sparks would have gotten that kind of treatment this early in the finals? Looking back, teenagers John Stevens and Kevin Covais certainly didn’t get any free passes just because they were younger than some of the others in the competition.

Then, again, maybe those teenagers didn’t have a parent yelling at them from the sidelines. Or maybe they did.

According to an Us Weekly report, Idol coach Debra Byrd is quoted as saying the stage mom and dad idea may not be all that new to the show.

“I mean, nobody said anything about Jordin Spark’s mom or grandmother, or Diana DeGarmo, or John Stevens’ mom. I could go on and on,” Byrd said. “He’s just a concerned parent like any of the other Idol parents.”

American Idol, David Archuleta, Jordin Sparks, Kevin Covais, Diana DeGarmo, John Stevens

American Idol’s Top 10 contestants gather around to hug Amanda Overmyer, center, after it was announced she was voted off of the show Tuesday night.

She came up just short of joining fellow contestants on the American Idols Live tour. But why did Amanda Overmyer get what some would say is an early dismissal from the FOX reality series?

The answer is quite simple, really. American Idol has a huge fan base — we already know that. But if you think about the show’s most devoted fans, the ones who actually are casting the 29.2 million or so votes per week, you’re talking about many older women and teenage girls. These power voters, while they may be interested in Amanda’s line of work as a nurse, certainly aren’t the target demographic for chick rock.

That’s not to say there aren’t fans of that style watching the show — Gina Glocksen proved that in Season 6. Still, this is a show that, at its core, is meant to find the next big thing in pop music. And that’s generally what happens, give or take a Carrie Underwood or Chris Daughtry. (But you could argue those contestants also have more pop appeal than even their respective country and rock genres.)

While I have been among those not sure how Amanda has held on this long in the competition, I do think she has some entertainment value. I just think her act is best played on a dark, corner stage in a smoky bar in the middle of Indiana. That’s where she really can appeal to a crowd.

American Idol, Amanda Overmyer, Gina Glocksen, Carrie Underwood, Chris Daughtry

It’s news American Idol could deliver in five minutes. Of course, it’s going to be a full hour before we know which Season 7 contestant won’t quite crack the Top 10. At least we’ll get to hear our old friend Kellie Pickler perform tonight.

So, let’s get to it.

7:58 p.m.

Ryan Seacrest anounces this year’s celebrity mentors will include Dolly Parton, Mariah Carey (which was confirmed earlier this week), Andrew Lloyd Webber — does that mean we’re getting a Broadway theme? — and Neil Diamond.

I’m not even going to comment about this lame group performance … I’m just going to pretend it isn’t happening.

8:08 p.m.

After the first of what’s sure to be many commercial breaks, we’re reminded about the good and bad from last night. The good, in my opinion, included David Cook, David Archuleta, Carly Smithson and Syesha Mercado. The not-so-good included Kristy Lee Cook, Amanda Overmyer, Ramiele Malubay and even Michael Johns.

First up for her results is Brooke White. Even after a not-so-stellar performance, she’s the first to be given a spot in the Top 10.

Carly Smithson was the first contestant to be given a seat as part of this week’s bottom three.

Next up, Carly Smithson. In one of the biggest shockers of the season thus far, she somehow is in the bottom three. I have to say, while it’s surprising, it’s not all that unexpected. Think about winners and top contestants from the past … if America is thinking, “Oh, I don’t have to vote for them, they’re definitely safe” … well, this sort of thing happens.

What about David Archuleta? He, too, will join Brooke White on the American Idols Live tour.

So, Michael Johns, a person I’ve struggled to really support, is up now. Simon questioned his song choice. America did not. He also is safe.

8:20 p.m.

As if the Ford music videos weren’t annoying enough, we now have to watch a how it’s made segment. What’s wrong with just having a 30 minute episode?

Now, it’s time for more results. It’s David Cook’s turn. No surprise here. David’s safe.

Kristy Lee Cook was among the contestants placed in the bottom three this week.

What about Kristy Lee Cook? She certainly was better this week than last, but she joins Carly in the bottom three. This was not a shock.

Jason Castro is next. He also will be going on tour with his fellow finalists.

Then there’s Ramiele Malubay, who has been struggling. But America appears to be behind her, giving her that one more chance I suggested last night.

8:29 p.m.

There are a few more contestants awaiting the news of their fate in the show, but first it’s time for a few calls from Idol fans. It turns out Simon doesn’t want to talk about his expensive cars, but he is willing to agree to recreating the Season 2 kiss scene with Paula.

Now, it’s time to see Kellie Pickler — and, of course, Ryan makes a joke about her breast enhancements. “She’s grown in so many ways,” Ryan said, clearly making reference to the plastic surgery. Kellie’s working on her sophomore album and is touring with Rascal Flatts, but she’s still getting some miles off of her biggest single to day, Red High Heels.

8:44 p.m.

And, we’re back. It won’t be long before Idol Gives Back returns, too. Tonight we get to see some footage with Fantasia and Elliott Yamin handing out netting to families in Africa to try and help fight malaria.

Now, it’s time for more results. It’s Syesha Mercado’s turn. In my opinion, she had the performance of the night — and America may have agreed. Because she, too, made it to the Top 10.

Amanda Overmyer rounds out the bottom three American Idol finalists this week.

That means it’s down to Chikezie and Amanda Overmyer. The one joining the ladies in the bottom three is Amanda Overmyer. Chikezie is safe. Aside from the shocking news of Carly Smithson in the bottom three, there’s no doubt America got the other 66 percent right.

8:54 p.m.

With the bottom three standing center stage, Ryan is sending Carly Smithson back to safety. So, it’s down to two of the worst contestants left in the competition …

And it’s Amanda Overmyer who will be leaving us tonight. Finally, I’m in agreement with these results. While I think she certainly has some spunk, I just don’t think she’s the American Idol. Apparently America agrees.

The good news for Amanda is there’s no question she’s going to be packing smoke-filled bars across the Midwest in months to come. She won’t need to have the American Idols Live tour to play for some audiences — and I don’t really think she cares how big the audiences are … just as long as there are audiences.

American Idol, Amanda Overmyer, Kristy Lee Cook, Carly Smithson

American Idol Season 7’s Top 11 contestants will perform hits from the Beatles.

It’s Beatles week, again. And the Top 11 American Idol finalists are ready to give it a second shot. So, who’s going to stand out during this expansion on last week’s Lennon-McCartney songbook? Well, we’re about to find out.

7:01 p.m.

With 500 people in the audience and 11 singers ready to do their thing, it’s time to get things moving. First, though, we have to hear what the judges have to say about what it took to get us to this point. Boring.

7:07 p.m.

After the usual introductions, we’re ready to get to the performances. First up is Amanda Overmyer. Her song choice — Back in the U.S.S.R. Maybe I’m just not feeling the female rock chick thing, but I don’t get it. Sorry, Amanda fans. This is almost as bad as Kristy Lee Cook’s showing last week. Could someone please explain what I’m missing?

“Paula and I were sitting here saying this is the perfect song choice for you,” Randy said. “… It was just a little pitchy in the beginning. … For me, I gotta give you a 7 out of 10 for that one.”

“Amanda, it was what it was,” Simon said. “It was predictable. It was a bit of a mess at parts. It’s the same thing week after week.”

7:17 p.m.

Last week she was terrible. I’m still a little bitter she didn’t get the boot. But Kristy Lee Cook is still here, so I hope she enjoys this second chance. Her song choice is You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away. While it’s much better than last week, this still is far from Kristy’s best moment on stage. I don’t know if this was the kiss of death — she did survive beyond last week, after all — but it doesn’t do much for helping push her above some of this season’s other favorites. It was just a little too bland for me.

“It was an interesting arrangement,” Randy said. “… It felt a little boring and a little safe.”

“This is the best you’ve ever looked,” Paula said, focusing on the positive. “It was a little safe, and just kind of, it was good.”

“Kristy, I think you need something like hypnosis or something,” Simon said. “The problem is you’re not a good performer. … It’s like musical wallpaper in as you notice it, but you can’t remember it.”

After forgetting his lyrics last week, David Archuleta is back this week hoping to have another Imagine moment. The Long and Winding Road is his ammunition, but will he hit the target? Tonight’s performance is further proof why David is the early favorite and pick to win the competition. His voice is so pure and smooth, and you can’t help but like the vulnerable 17-year-old. The only thing he really needs to worry about at this point is shining too early in the competition. American is easily bored and, therefore, could be over him before he even has a chance to make it to the final two. Until that happens, though, we all can hope for more amazing performances … like the one he just delivered.

“David, check it out, baby,” Randy said. “David Archuleta has brought the hottness back …”

“This probably, for me, is the most exciting and wonderful performance,” Paula said.

“OK, David, last week was a complete mess,” Simon said. “This week, I thought you were amazing.”

7:35 p.m.

Michael Johns is up next. While I think he’s been a little underwhelming since Hollywood Week, he’s hopefully going to bring something interesting to his rendition of A Day in the Life. The arrangement is an entire mess. It sounds like a collage of many different songs. It’s just not working for me. I say put Michael Johns in the bottom three this week, America. I don’t know who’s favoring this guy among many of the other contestants. Again, could someone please explain?

“It wasn’t one of your best performances,” Randy said. “… The thing is, you gotta remember, you’ve got that big old voice.”

“I was able to catch a little sound from dress rehearsal, and you were pretty phenomenal then,” Paula said. “… You lose the connection a little bit with the audience.”

“The long and short of it was it was a mess,” Simon said. “You didn’t hit the right notes, the song went all over the place … it doesn’t work as a minute and a half, Michael.”

7:45 p.m.

After the commercial, it’s Brooke White’s turn. She’s been a rising star the last few weeks, and I hope this week is no different for this charming performer. Last week, she took on Let It Be and really made it work. Tonight, she takes on Here Comes the Sun, another great Beatles jam. This is such a great song that many Idol fans of all ages will know. That’s a definite help. Plus, the coffeeshop voice Brooke brings to her performances, it’s just working out for me. There’s something about Brooke that’s just relaxing. It’s great to just sit back and listen to her sing. The movements tonight were a little uncomfortable looking, though. Brooke still is one of my favorites …

“That performance was really awkward for me,” Randy said. “… You were never really connected to that song for me.”

“What was hot for me was that you can’t help but smile when you watch you,” Paula said. “… You have really good low tone to your voice.”

“I just knew Brooke, when you were choosing that song, that you would be dressed in yellow and the lighting would be yellow,” Simon said. “I thought the performance was terrible. … That’s what it’s all about, song choice.”

7:57 p.m.

David Cook, just like Brooke White, has been shining more and more each week. So, how will he do this time around? The Missouri rocker is doing Daytripper this week. This guy has it. Simon is right that, if America votes on talent alone, David Cook could be the one to beat. This, so far, is definitely the best performance of the night.

“Yo, Mr. Cook, dawg,” Randy said. “… Dude, I don’t know if it was your best performance, but it’s another solid look for David Cook.”

“You’re ready to go sell records,” Paula said. “You’re ready to go sell lots and lots of records.”

“David, I don’t think that was as good as you thought it was, actually,” Simon said. “… You’ve lost your element of surprise a little bit. This, again, was a little predictable.”

8:07 p.m.

We have some space to fill, clearly. But after a couple of wasted minutes, it’s Carly Smithson’s chance. After a strong week last week, Carly chose to sing Blackbird. This is the slowest tune, the closest thing to a ballad we’ve heard from Carly. And it’s proof her music career will return with a record contract — with or without winning the Idol title. It’s great to hear her taking on a different kind of song than we normally would expect from her. Forget David’s performance, because Carly just took the lead tonight. Her timing was perfect. The pitch was right on. And it worked. Incredible performance.

“Yo, another great performance for Carly Smithson,” Randy said. “Very nice.”

“So, Beatles song, week two, and you choose a song about a blackbird,” Simon said. “I don’t think that was a very smart thing to do.”

8:19 p.m.

After one more break, we’re back with Jason Castro. He’s getting a little less awkward — and I do mean a little — in the interview process. For Beatles week, Jason chose Michelle, which required learning a little bit of French. I think it was a decent song choice for Jason, who glided through the lyrics and showed a slightly different side of her vocal talents. But it always will be his smooth voice that makes him shine the brightest.

“Good choice, Michelle,” Randy said. “It was a little interesting for more for you. … It was just alright for me, man.”

“You have a very distinct charm about you,” Paula said. “Having said that, I feel like you get a little disconnected away from your guitar.”

“This is all getting a bit strange,” Simon said. “Where you’re lucky is that this is a TV show and not a radio show. Because your face sold that.”

8:29 p.m.

It hasn’t been the best night for the finalists, and Syesha Mercado really needs to have a good night. After being in the bottom three last week, Syesha has to be hoping her rendition of Yesterday will get her back in the game. This is, without question, my favorite Beatles song. So, it’s going to be hard for me to judge the performance without keeping that in mind. First off, though, I think it was a brilliant song choice for Syesha. It’s a song many generations know — thanks to remakes by groups like Boyz II Men — and her simple, heartfelt performance certainly is working out. I know I keep saying this, but Syesha is taking the lead for the best performance tonight. She’s using her voice in some ways we haven’t heard, and the judges have to be a fan of that … right?

“In my estimation, very, very, very good performance tonight,” Randy said.

“It’s great to see how you chance and how you let yourself be very vulnerable,” Paula said.

“Syesha, I thought that was probably your best performance so far,” Simon said. “It wasn’t incredible, but you chose the best song. … I think that song and that performance should keep you in this competition.”

8:39 p.m.

Next up, it’s Chikezie. He’s performing I’ve Just Seen a Face, and he’s planning on adding instrumental technique — in the form of a harmonica — even though he admits he doesn’t know how to play any instruments. While I don’t think it’s the best performance ever, I think Chikezie is doing a lot better in the last couple of weeks than he was doing earlier on in the competition. Tonight’s performance should be enough to keep him in the competition. That’s really about all I have to say.

“There was some good parts for me and some bad parts for me,” Randy said

“When you sing a ballad, when you start singing, it is so pure, on pitch,” Paula said.

“I thought it started off OK, and then you played the harmonica,” Simon said. “And then turns into Achy, Breaky Heart at the end.”

8:49 p.m.

The last contestant to take the stage tonight is Ramiele Malubay. Her choice from the Beatles is I Should Have Known Better. This type of theme certainly has to be a little difficult for someone like Ramiele. This just isn’t her style, but tonight she’s doing her best to make it work. Aside from the Kelly Clarkson-esque outfit, I think the performance is enough to keep her safe beyond these difficult themes. It’s not the best she can do, for sure, though. Not even close.

WHO GETS MY VOTE: It wasn’t the best week for anyone, but I’m giving a few votes to Syesha Mercado. She certainly was the best tonight, especially considering she was in the bottom three last week. I’m also going to make a call for Carly Smithson, who, despite what Simon says, did a great job mixing it up tonight.

WHO SHOULD GO: Please put Amanda Overmyer out of my misery. Please?!? I’m begging at this point. Or Michael Johns. I just don’t get what he’s trying to do. And I’m only giving Ramiele Malubay one more chance. I think she’s been kind of cheated with really rough theme weeks for a singer such as herself, so I’m giving her another shot … but that’s it.

American Idol, David Cook, Amanda Overmyer, Kristy Lee Cook, David Archuleta, Brooke White, Chikezie Eze, Michael Johns, Syesha Mercado, Jason Castro, Carly Smithson, Ramiele Malubay

Danny Noriega

Danny Noriega may have been the first finalist to leave American Idol this season, but he already has at least a small group of celebrity fans — including Rosie O’Donnell, comedian ANT and Ross “the Intern” Mathews.

Rosie offered Danny a chance to hop aboard the R Family Cruise recently on her blog, and a posting this weekend on Rosie’s Web site shows the singer aboard the ship, alongside his cousin and the celebrities mentioned above. Danny and his cousin both give their moms a shout-out, and the celebrities freak out about his guest appearance.

“I love you. I love your attitude. I love your spunk. I love your sassy ways,” Rosie told the singer.

“I was so excited,” ANT said about finding out the Idol finalist was joining him on the cruise. “I was like, ‘Is he single?’”

American Idol, Danny Noriega, Rosie O’Donnell

Mariah Carey

While it’s going to be a repeat week as far as the theme is concerned, American Idol may have one special surprise in store for contestants this week — Mariah Carey.

The pop diva is reportedly going to be a guest judge this week, as the Top 11 finalists take on round two of the John Lennon-Paul McCartney songbook. Carey, who performed on Saturday Night Live this weekend, was rumored to be a guest on the show earlier this year. She has worked with judge Randy Jackson — or, Randy Jackson has worked with her, you might say — and he said the singer had been open to the idea.

Luckily for the contestants, this week they’ll be singing more Lennon-McCartney songs. Because if they had to take on the Mariah Carey songbook, it would be an even bigger disaster. Can you imagine Amanda Overmyer struggling through a version of Fantasy? Or Michael Johns trying to sing anything from Music Box?

American Idol, Mariah Carey, Randy Jackson

David Hernandez

It may be the biggest controversy of the season. American Idol finalist David Hernandez was a stripper. And one that catered to mostly male clients at that.

When this story was revealed a couple of weeks ago, it began spreading quite rapidly. Even trusted news outlets – you know, CNN and the like – reported the story. So, was it this revelation that ultimately ended Hernandez’s run on the show? Or was it really that his performance of I Saw Him Standing There was the weakest of the Top 12?

While I admit the performance wasn’t an award-winning one – it wouldn’t be the one he was remembered for if he remained in the competition – it certainly wasn’t the worst of the night. That honor went to the one singer with three little names … Kristy Lee Cook. Eight Days a Week is not a country song. Now, it may have worked if it hadn’t been for her making it yodel-esque country. But I digress.

Hernandez, a native of Glendale, Ariz., the shared hometown of American Idol Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks, is a talented singer. He may have struggled with his song choices throughout the past few weeks, but that’s been the case with most every contestant. Even little David Archuleta fumbled this week. Big time.

When the last vote was counted, I imagine Hernandez was the one to exit for a mix of two things – he really hasn’t had one standout performance since Hollywood week, and the stripper thing translated into negativity. There’s no question it played into the equation, and there’s no question Idol producers are none to disappointed he’s gone.

American Idol, David Hernandez

The Top 12 contestants on Season 7 of American Idol arrive Saturday at the premiere of Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who.

David Archuleta had a rough night. Brooke White was on top of her game. But the vote was in America’s hands, so who will be the first of the Top 12 finalists to leave American Idol Season 7? After 29 million-plus votes, we’re about to find out … at the end of the hour, I’m sure.

8 p.m.

Jim Carrey, voiceover star of the upcoming Dr. Suess’ Horton Hears a Who, opens the show with a painfully obvious — and pointed out by Ryan Seacrest — promo for the FOX-produced film. This is one of the most annoying parts of the … oh, wait, a group performance with terrible choreography and a montage of Lennon-McCartney songs. Gross.

You would think having a choreographer like Paula Abdul sitting at the judges table would be enough to get more than a little hip swivel out of these contestants. But apparently that’s not the case.

8:08 p.m.

After the first of what’s sure to be many commercial breaks tonight, we’re back and welcomed with a recap of last night’s performances. In case you missed it, many of the contestants did quite well. A few — Michael Johns and Kristy Lee Cook, among them — struggled a bit.

Now, the results:

Carly Smithson, Michael Johns, Jason Castro and Syesha Mercado are asked to stand. Carly, obviously, is safe. Michael Johns, who definitely didn’t have the strongest performance this week, also is safe. Jason, the guy who consistently is getting better (though last night wasn’t as great as last week), is safe. And, Syesha? The show-opening contestant last night … well, she’s the first contestant in the bottom three.

Before any more announcements, Syesha has a chance to sing at least one more time. There’s no question it wasn’t her strongest week, but she is one of the most interesting female contestants. What are you thinking, America? Give Syesha some love. Still, I don’t think she’ll be the one going home tonight.

8:21 p.m.

We’re back. Oh, and remember how I said there’s not much more annoying than group performances? I almost forgot about those ridiculous Ford commercials. So painful.

Now, more results. Chikezie Eze, Amanda Overmyer, Kristy Lee Cook and David Cook are asked to stand. Chikezie is safe. Amanda, after a somewhat screamy week, also is safe. David, who has been improving week after week since the beginning of the show, also will be returning next week. Kristy Lee Cook, who certainly should be going home this week, joins Syesha. Now we have to hear that terrible version of Eight Days a Week once again.

This is the perfect example of why contestants should get to perform the song of their choice — not the one America didn’t like — for what potentially could be their last performance on the show. The sad part about Kristy Lee Cook is that she certainly was a frontrunner in the earliest parts of the season. Had she been able to make the right song choices, she certainly would have been around longer … and maybe she will be. But I’m not so sure she can survive this catastrophe.

8:33 p.m.

After another break, American Idol is doing something kind of cool. They’re taking calls from fans across the country. The questions, of course, are kind of boring. Wait, someone just asked why Ryan and Simon don’t duke it out on stage. Brilliant. (Bloody brilliant, the Brits would say.)

Now, a guaranteed decent performance … from Katharine McPhee, an Idol alum with a killer voice.

8:46 p.m.

The last four contestants take the center of the stage. Three will be safe. One will be in the bottom three. First up, David Archuleta. After a weak night, he’s safe.

Next up, Brooke White. She had an incredible night last night, and she, too, is safe.

David Hernandez and Ramiele Malubay are left … and, rounding out the bottom three is David Hernandez. While he didn’t have the best performance last night, I do think he may have lost some of America’s support due to the news of his being a gay stripper before Idol.

After David’s possible final performance, Ryan promises to send someone to safety … but not until after the break.

8:55 p.m.

Before we find out who’s going to go, Ryan wants the judges to make a decision. “It’s probably the right bottom three,” Randy said.

“The whole country’s talking,” Paula said. “You guys are superior this season.”

“I think America got this absolutely spot on,” Simon said.

The first person sent to safety is going to be … Syesha. This definitely is no surprise.

And … the first to go … is David Hernandez.

David Hernandez was the first Top 12 finalist on American Idol to get voted from Season 7.

I have to say America did not get this right. At all. Kristy should have been gone. And David certainly deserved another chance. I’m not 100 percent sure what happened here, but I have a gut feeling it’s David’s past that got him voted from the show at this point.

Kristy Lee was a complete disaster. I guess it could have been worse … But I’m not really happy to see David go just yet. Did he deserve to be in the bottom two? Probably. Should he be gone? I think you get my thoughts at this point.

What about you? Do you think America got it right?

American Idol, David Hernandez, Brooke White, Jason Castro, Amanda Overmyer, David Cook, Ramiele Malubay, Michael Johns, Katharine McPhee, David Archuleta, Kristy Lee Cook, Chikezie Eze, Syesha Mercado, Carly Smithson

It’s going to be a big night. Finally, after weeks of terrible auditions and getting the crowd narrowed to this point, the finals are beginning. American Idol Season 7 really has arrived.

Tonight the Top 12 will perform on the biggest stage in the show’s history, and they’ll perform from a catalog of Lennon-McCartney tunes. It’s going to be a big one.

7:08 p.m.

Syesha Mercado

The first singer up is Syesha Mercado, who performs Gotta Get You Into My Life. I have thought Syesha was a standout among the females for weeks, but this song may have been a bad choice. It’s a difficult one to showcase her true vocal talent, it seems.

“Syesha, you know you’re a good singer,” Paula said. “… It started off-pitch … but, midway through, you found your zone.”

“I thought it was better than alright, Randy,” Simon said. “I thought it was a great choice of song.”

7:16 p.m.

Chikezie Eze

Chikezie Eze is up next. His choice is She’s A Woman, which he turns into a bit of a bluegrass jam. It seems like a bizarre fit for Chikezie’s personality and his style, but … you know what? … it kind of works really well. I have to say I really thought he should be gone a few weeks ago. But tonight he really stepped it up and proved he deserved a spot in the Top 12. Interesting, if nothing else.

“I was thoroughly entertained,” Randy said. “… I loved the arrangement. … Who knew you had the falsetto? Chikezie smashed it.”

“I’m really surprised, but I actually agree with these two,” Simon said.

Ramiele Malubay

Now, it’s Ramiele Malubay’s chance to prove she deserves her spot in the Top 12. Her song choice is In My Life, which she dedicated to her close friends who have left the show. After a couple of not-so-incredible weeks, Ramiele’s sweet, tender voice is back this week. And now is when it really counts. None of the contestants can afford to have a bad week now, and Ramiele certainly didn’t have a bad week. I don’t want to say I think this was the season-winning performance, but I certainly think it will be remembered. And it likely will be highly downloaded at iTunes.

“I kept waiting for you to do something special and interesting …” Randy said.

“It was pretty safe,” Paula said.

“Ramiele, I was bored to tears throughout the entire song,” Simon said.

I’m not sure what’s happening the last couple of weeks, but I seem to not be hearing the same things as the judges. Maybe I’m so caught up in blogging that I’m missing something here?

7:33 p.m.

Jason Castro

He’s proven he could be a true force in the competition, and Jason Castro still is struggling with the attention. Tonight he performs If I Fell, a song he says is “so pretty.” This performance is not as impressive as Jason’s previous showings, but I think it’s enough to keep him in the competition for another week or two.

“I liked it; I didn’t love it,” Randy said.

“What is so special and unique about you is I do feel your heart,” Paula said. “That is such a special connection that makes you truly unique.”

“Jason, last week you were incredible,” Simon said. “This week, if I’m being honest with you, it was all very much student in a bedroom at midnight.”

7:44 p.m.

Carly Smithson

After another commercial break, we’re back. And it’s Carly Smithson taking the stage. It’s a song she regularly performs at her own shows, and tonight Carly brings her version of Come Together to America. This week the good Carly returns. Her performance is interesting, different and not too over-produced. It actually seems like an original, definitely cool, performance. I like it. A lot.

“That felt amazing, didn’t it?” Randy asked. “… You were strong, you were confident, you sounded amazing. There wasn’t a note out of tune.”

“Week after week, so far, I think you have chosen the wrong song … until now,” Simon said. “… This reminds me, six years ago, exactly the same week, Kelly Clarkson.”

7:54 p.m.

David Cook

David Cook, the first of the three Davids, is up next. Not only did he have the best week last week, but David is undergoing a big transformation in the fashion department week after week. That’s a big part of the competition, too. (Need I remind everyone of the Clay Aiken transformation?)

Anyway, as far as the singing, David is a good singer and performer. But it’s a little tough to top last week. Tonight’s performance was passable, but not spectacular. OK, I lie. It was pretty amazing.

“You can definitely rock out on Idol,” Randy said. “That proves it right there.”

“This is proving there’s more than one horse in this race,” Paula said.

“David, I thought it was brilliant,” Simon said.

8:03 p.m.

Brooke White

Brooke White is up, and she’s singing one of my favorite Beatles songs, Let It Be. First off, I’m giving her big points for playing the piano. I think it’s a cool addition this season that contestants are showing their overall music talent, not just the vocals and stage presence. Brooke certainly is starting her Top 12 journey off on a few good notes. Let It Be not only is a great song choice, but the performance is a soft, gentle one that already is guaranteed to be one of the best from the females left standing.

“So, listen, I don’t know if it’s your strongest performance,” Randy said. “This is kind of like a dream come true for you.”

“This is your niche, Brooke,” Paula said. “It’s picking songs where we can feel your heart, America can feel your heart.”

“I thought, Brooke, it was, again, one of the best performances of the night,” Simon said. “I thought it was a brilliant choice of song.”

8:14 p.m.

David Hernandez

He shares a hometown with Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks, and now it’s David Hernandez’s turn to give it a go. He chose to perform I Saw Her Standing There as his opening number for the finals. It may have been a smart move, since it’s a song everyone knows — even the youngest Idol viewers — but it also is a little dangerous, because it’s an obvious karaoke favorite. Tonight’s performance, while acceptable, isn’t a knockout. I blame song choice, but I think David should survive this week.

“On a song like this that’s really simple, you kind of did too much with it,” Randy said.

“David, you know I love your voice,” Paula said. “I feel like you overdid it a little bit.”

“David, no, no, no,” Simon said. “I thought it was corny, verging on desperate. It was all a little bit rabbit in the headlights. It just wasn’t very cool.”

8:24 p.m.

Amanda Overmyer

Tomorrow night, we’ll hear from Katharine McPhee on the results show. But first, Amanda Overmyer has to take her turn on the stage. She’s the resident nurse/biker chick and the resident female rocker of the season, but how will she handle the finals? She chooses You Can’t Do That to prove she deserves her spot here among some of the best singers to ever stand on the Idol stage.

For those who enjoy Amanda’s style, this is right up their alley. For folks like me, I’m just not getting it. Not that I think she’s terrible, I just don’t see the appeal. It’s a little screamy to me tonight. Sorry, Amanda fans. I may be missing something here, too …

“I love it, dude,” Randy said. “Good looking out. I thought it was cool, very cool.”

“You are a star up there,” Paula said. “This is the best competition, the best season of talent.”

“I didn’t think it was as good as last week, Amanda,” Simon said. “And I understood about 30 percent of what you were saying. … And it all got a little shouty.”

8:34 p.m.

Michael Johns

With three contestants left tonight, it’s Michael Johns‘ turn. The Australian chose a song that has significance to his life. That song is Across the Universe. Another one of the most-popular songs from the collection, it is an extremely wise choice for tonight’s show. It’s somewhat current, considering last year’s movie by the same title, and it like is known by many generations of Idol fans. As far as the performance, I don’t think it’s anything too memorable. But I don’t really get a good sense of where Michael stands in the competition, either. Let’s see what the judges have to say …

“I was waiting for something big to happen,” Randy said. “It was OK for me. A little sleepy, but it was alright.”

“I disagree with you, again, Randy,” Paula said. “… I thought that was a brilliant performance, I really do.”

“I’m going to agree with Randy,” Simon said. “Carly did something brilliant with the song, and that’s what you should have done.”

Kristy Lee Cook

Now, it’s Kristy Lee Cook. She’s planning on taking Eight Days a Week into the country genre. While it’s a bit different, I think Kristy Lee is pretty brave for making the move. It’s tough to say if it was a brilliant move. It certainly is a country performance. My biggest problem with the performance, really, is it seems it could be little too safe, but she kind of ruined her chance. It seemed, at times, she was trying to speed it up and add a little too much flair. It was a complete wreck, though.

“This is kind of wild for me,” Randy said. “… Vocally, I just felt like you were trying to force some runs into it. … I’m kind of torn with this one.”

“Kristy, I didn’t enjoy it, and I’ll tell you why,” Paula said.

“You sounded like Dolly Parton on helium,” Simon said. “Sorry. Kristy, it was a very brave, but probably foolish thing to do.”

8:50 p.m.

David Archuleta

David Archuleta will close the show, which makes me wonder — how do they decide who opens and who closes? What’s the true deciding factor on the order of performances? Does it have anything to do with the fact David is one of the obvious favorites? Or is it just a coincidence. Just wondering your thoughts …

But, on to the performance. David’s song choice is We Can Work It Out, which he claims he knows better as a Stevie Wonder recording. Off to a rough start, David seemed to struggle with the lyrics in the beginning of the song. And he is visibly very uncomfortable on stage. For a kid with such confidence — and a great set of pipes — tonight was not a shining moment for this teenager. Even after Kristy Lee Cook, it was not good. At all, really.

“This week, dawg, it was not on pointe,” Randy said. “… It just didn’t quite work.”

“You know what, this wasn’t your best week,” Paula said. “You are a frontrunner in this competition.”

“David, we’ve got 12 people here, all in the same position,” Simon said. “That was a mess. … It was just all over the place.”

WHO GETS MY VOTE: This is a tough one, really. I have to say I’m really digging Brooke White these days. Of course, I have been equally impressed with David Cook in the last two weeks.

MOST IMPROVED: Chikezie Eze. Without question. Tonight’s performance was a pleasant surprise.

WHO SHOULD GO: Kristy Lee Cook should probably pack her bags. But Michael Johns and even David Hernandez shouldn’t get too comfortable. Based on several factors, these guys could be in a little trouble, too.

American Idol, Michael Johns, Kristy Lee Cook, Amanda Overmyer, Ramiele Malubay, David Cook, Chikezie Eze, David Hernandez, Brooke White, Syesha Mercado, Carly Smithson, David Archuleta, Jason Castro

They’ve been trapped inside the confines of American Idol auditions and the walls of their own protected-from-the-media world. Until now.

The Season 7 Top 12 contestants were out and about this weekend in Hollywood, caught on tape going to photo shoots and even walking the orange carpet for a movie premiere. That movie is, of course, the kid-friendly Dr. Seuss’ horton Hears a Who. They even had the chance to pose with stars Jim Carrey and Jenny McCarthy at the event.

So, with less than 24 hours before the beginning of this season’s much-anticipated finals, who is your favorite? Is the title easily going to go to David Archuleta? Some say “definitely.” I say, “not so fast.” There’s far too much talent to make that kind of a prediction.

American Idol, David Archuleta, Jim Carrey, Jenny McCarthy

Kady Malloy says she wants to be a spokesperson for gay rights.

A recently booted American Idol Top 24 contestant wants to be a spokesperson for gay rights. And it’s probably not who you’re thinking.

Kady Malloy, who left the competition just short of making the Top 12 finals, is stepping up to the challenge. She says, “Well, my best friend is gay. Freddie Mercury was gay, who’s my idol. I just think that, you know, you shouldn’t define somebody by their sexuality, and I think that gay people not being able to get married and things like that is just like history repeating itself, and I think that we need to learn from our past.”

In a season where gay has been one of the biggest buzz words on the show, it’s no surprise such a revelation would be made. Of course, that revelation may have been expected for a contestant of the opposite gender (based on recent rumors and other news events).

Speaking of the influence of sexuality on American Idol, former contestant and openly gay singer-turned-actor Jim Verraros told the Associated Press recently, “It feels like we’re closer now than ever to having an openly gay contestant on the show.”

“I’m not here to name any names, but I feel like there are some definite possibilities for this to happen this year,” said Verraros, who came out publicly after his Season 1 run on the show. “Do I think it’ll happen? I don’t know. I hope it does.”

American Idol, Kady Malloy, Jim Verraros

Danny Noriega

Comedian/host Rosie O’Donnell posted a v-log on her site, Rosie.com, inviting Danny Noriega to sing and appear on her R Family cruise. Even though she goofed up the American Idol contestant’s name — not to mention David Archuleta’s name — she seemed to be genuine about being a fan of Noriega.

The v-log was recorded while comedian Kathy Griffin also was on site taping a segment for My Life on the D List. O’Donnell’s invitation also included a mention that maybe Noriega could share the stage with another R Family Cruise performer, Cyndi Lauper, recreating his rendition of Tainted Love.

Noriega was given the boot last week, just shy of making the Top 12 on Season 7.

American Idol, Danny Noriega, Rosie O’Donnell