Welcome to the final recap of American Idol for the show’s penultimate season. Although I kvetch about pitchy performances and dull choices, this has been a really terrific season where many unique voices shown through. Because there’s no point in recapping and reviewing the finale, I’m just going to live blog the whole two hours. Let’s go!
8:01 – I don’t know if it’s Nick, Clark or Patrick but someone is painfully off-key on that “Centuries” note. Given the solos, I’m looking at you Clark.
8:03 – “Who will be remembered for centuries?” Ryan asks. You mean like Scotty McCreery or Candice Glover? Burn!
8:07 – I love Tyanna. Her story and personality and talent are so inspiring. When she matures into that big ol’ voice and gets control over her pitch, she could be a superstar. I sorta wish they had paired the spirited teen with someone hot and fresh and young. None of which The Jacksons are. I mean, yeah, “ABC” is a classic but pairing her with three AARP members who can barely still squeak out their part was a big miss.
8:15 – Apparently the producers heard my complaining so they’re now having the female contestants sing a modern song. And by modern, I mean moving from 1970 to 1979.
8:16 – There were some great female contestants this year and a real diverse group. Jax was my favorite female this year, but Joey is fantastic too. Even in that hideous, Muppet-like dress she’s in. Seriously, it looks like they skinned Snuffleupagus.
8:20 – Man, Ricky Martin does not age. He and JLo must go to the same Hollywood Fountain of Youth.
8:22 – This is like the ultimate “La Vida Loca” karaoke.
8:24 – Is this the first time “She Bangs” has been heard on Idol since William Hung. Remember that? When Idol auditions were all about humiliating talentless wannabes?
8:32 – A song about yoga pants? I mean, I like ‘em. But really. This is the single worst Janelle Monae song I can think of. Also, if she’s in the building why didn’t they pair Tyanna with Janelle? It’s such a clear pairing.
8:43 – I adore Joey and am super curious what kind of post-Idol career she’ll have. My guess that she’ll go in the Casey Abrams/Haley Reinhart route who have recently shacked up with YouTube favorites Postmodern Jukebox. Joey would be an awesome PMJ member.
8:45 – I’m comfortable enough in my straight male sexuality to say that Keith is one fine looking man, especially in such a sharp suit.
8:49 - This package is a good time to bring up the fact that, bar none, this is the best group of judges who have ever been on the show. They are so knowledgeable and funny and warm. They don’t mock the contestants, they know what they’re talking about (especially Harry who has brought real musical knowledge to the show) and are a hoot to watch. They’ve had some wonky panels over the years, but I’m glad the show is going out next year with this group.
8:59 – Rayvon sounds amazing tonight. Even though he could sometimes come off a little disconnected, his voice is silky smooth.
9:06 – Daniel and New Kids On The Block? Pass. I never thought I’d say this, but I miss Prince Royce.
9:18 – At this moment, Nick’s single is number 26 on iTunes. Clark’s doesn’t crack the top 50.
9:22 – I’d take Quentin over Pitbull any day.
9:28 – Steven Tyler wasn’t a very good judge, but he’s so friggin’ weird and entertaining.
9:33 – Good for Jax for getting a word in edgewise about her sudden elimination yesterday. She’s a pro and, according to all her interviews and her busy Twitter feed, a humble and kind person.
9:40 – Oddly enough, Clark’s vocals alongside Michael McDonald are far better and more assured than anything we saw last night.
9:42 – Let’s relive the cuteness, shall we?
9:43 – I can’t tell you how many people have asked me recently if I know Nick or saw him play before Idol. I do not and have not. But we have one mutual friend on Facebook and about 10 with his dad and sister. How cool to have a potential winner from Guilford, though. The only celeb I can think of from Guilford is actress Becki Newton.
9:53 – I always forget how good of a singer JLo is when she’s not singing drek like “I Luh Ya Papi.” Also, I would buy this version of “Locked out of Heaven.” Hot damn.
10:01 – And the winner is…Nick Fradiani!
10:04 – I’ve been hard on Nick this season but he’s clearly a very talented man. And more, than many others this season, he’s a seasoned pro who knows exactly the kind of the artist he wants to be. If his great winners single is any indication, we could see some big hits from Nick.
10:05 – Thanks all folks! Thanks for reading along each week. I’ll be back recapping So You Think You Can Dance in a few weeks!
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