Carly Smithson Jesus Christ Superstar

Guide Note

American Idol Season 7 contestant Carly Smithson sang the Andrew Lloyd Webber song "Jesus Christ Superstar on the April 22, 2008 episode of the show. The program was dedicated to both Lloyd Webber's catalogue and Earth Day.

Judges Comments

Thought it was great and he loved Smithson's outfit.

Abdul liked the performance and called Smithson a "real pro".

Declared that is was one of his favorite performances of the night.

Fast Facts

1. Air date: April 22, 2008
2. Performer: Carly Smithson
3. Mentor: Andrew Lloyd Webber
4. Host: Ryan Seacrest
5. Performers: Idol Top 6

"Lloyd Webber nixes Carly's first choice (Phantom's All I Ask of You) and maneuvers her into doing Jesus Christ Superstar. He appears to be correct, because Carly's sassy '70s rock performance is a welcome relief from the last three ballads. It's a classic fake-rock composition, but that's not Carly's fault -- she does a good job of maximizing the material, one time when her tendency to go over the top rather fits the song. Randy thinks it was definitely good but not her best. Paula thought it was great because it was so unexpected. Simon says it was shouty but one of his favorites of the night. Carly promptly flashes a "Simon Loves Me (This Week)" T-shirt."