Simon Cowell, Ellen DeGeneres, Kara DioGuardi, Randy Jackson - Michael Becker / FOX
The real competition began last night on season 9 of American Idol as the always dramatic Hollywood week got underway.
The drama was at a minimum for the first episode, but the talent was finally at the max. Old favorites from the audition round got even better, new standouts emerged, while some unworthy gold ticket grabbers met their makers.
Oh, and did I mention Ellen DeGeneres? Idol’s new judge made a glowing debut, proving to be firm, funny, and fair.
Sudden death was the name of the game the first day in Hollywood. Hopefuls lined the stage in small group with the option of singing a capella, or with their instruments for the first time.
In the first group, two standouts (in two completely different ways) made their way to the stage for their second auditions: 16-year-old Katie Stevens, who I dubbed a possible female David Archuleta for her soaring voice and sweet personality, and the incredibly over-the-top Skii Bo Ski. Katie opted to perform with just herself and a mic, and was even better than the first time. Simon and Randy both agreed, calling her “quite good” and a “natural talent.” Skii Bo Ski, on the other hand, rubbed the judges the wrong way with his weak voice and crazy facial expressions. This is where we get our first gem of wisdom from a “frightened” Ellen. “Don’t get so intense,” she warned. “Sexy and scary. It’s a fine line.” Simon saw Ellen’s firm and raise her a harsh, adding to Skii’s critique, “You’re just not a very good singer.”
Remember Vanessa Wolfe who auditioned in Atlanta? The judges adored her aww-shucks small town charm, but I wasn’t buying what they were trying to sell. I’m happy to report her performance in Hollywood week proved me right. She stood on stage, closed like a cocoon, nervously holding the microphone as she sang with a voice that was nothing but pure terribleness personified. Ellen did her best Paula Abdul impersonation by telling Wolfe to hone in on her unique qualities and shake off the nerves. In the end, she was just too bad to move forward.
Andrew Garcia made another front-runner play with a risky acoustic guitar version of Abdul’s hit “Straight Up.” The risk paid off big time! His completely revamped version of the pop tune could be a hit if released today. Kara didn’t hold back on the praise. “Genius,” she said of the performance. “You owned that moment.”
Others making it through included Janell Wheeler (her soul/pop/country version of “American Boy” was superb!), Haeley Vaughn (her quest to become the black Taylor Swift lives on), Mary Powers, Lilly Scott, Tim Urban, Casey James (he didn’t have to take his shirt off to impress the judges this time), and Crystal Bowersox (she’ll win no points for her looks, but tons for her soulful voice).
Notable casualties include obnoxious beat-boxer Jay Stone, and bland youngster Maddy Curtis.
And then there was Didi Benami. Her audition to the tune of “Hey Jude” in memory of her deceased best friend stole hearts across the country, but she didn’t get the praise she deserved from the judges. Simon even stressed that his “yes” had a small y. Not this time. Didi cleverly picked “Terrified,” written by Kara DioGuardi as her song of choice. It was simply amazing — better than her audition. The judges showered her with praise. Simon topped it off with a simple “terrific.” Indeed! I’m calling it now. Didi is the one to beat!
Hollywood week continues tonight with the always entertaining group round.
I have a feeling this is going to be the year for a superstar. Kris Allen last year was great, I and my family LOVE him, but I have a feeling we’ll have an unbelievable winner this year.