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- Show: American Idol
- Network: FOX
- Season premiere: January 13, 2009
- Previous season: 7
- New episodes: Tuesdays at 8 p.m. and Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET
- Judges: Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardiUSA Today: Songwriter Kara DioGuardi joins 'American Idol' panel (August 26, 2008)
- Host: Ryan Seacrest
- Created by: Simon Fuller
- Directed by: Bruce Gowers
- Running time: Varies
- Season 8 auditions began on July 17, 2008Official Site: Who Will Be The Next Singing Superstar (July 1, 2008)
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This page contains links to sites with spoilers, gossip, recaps and more of the 8th season of the hit television show American Idol. The links are gathered from blogs, message boards, and from watching the program live. Do not read on if you do not want to know secrets or rumors about the show.
The winner of American Idol was Kris Allen.
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Top 10
- Kris Allen
- Adam Lambert
- Danny Gokey - Eliminated
- Allison Iraheta - Eliminated
- Matt Giraud - Eliminated
- Anoop Desai - Eliminated
- Lil Rounds - Eliminated
- Scott MacIntyre - Eliminated
- Megan Joy - Eliminated
- Michael Sarver - Eliminated
Themes
- Top 13: Michael Jackson
- Top 11: Grand Ole Opry
- Top 10: Motown
- Top 9: Popular iTunes Downloads
- Top 8: Year They Were Born
- Top 7: Movie Soundtracks
- Top 7: Disco
- Top 6: Rat Pack Standards
Season 8 Audition Cities
- San Francisco, CA
- Louisville, KY
- Glendale, AZ
- Salt Lake City, UT
- San Juan, PR
- Kansas City, MO
- Jacksonville, FL
- East Rutherford, NJ
Season 8 Schedule
- January 13 & 14 - 2 hour audition episodes each nightOfficial Site: American Idol Announces Season 8 Schedule (December 15, 2008)
- January 20 & 21 - AuditionsOfficial Site: American Idol Announces Season 8 Schedule (December 15, 2008)
- January 27 & 28 - AuditionsOfficial Site: American Idol Announces Season 8 Schedule (December 15, 2008)
- Thursday, January 29 - Final Audition EpisodeOfficial Site: American Idol Announces Season 8 Schedule (December 15, 2008)
- February 3 & 4 - Hollywood WeekOfficial Site: American Idol Announces Season 8 Schedule (December 15, 2008)
- February 10 & 11 - Hollywood WeekOfficial Site: American Idol Announces Season 8 Schedule (December 15, 2008)
- February 17 & 18 - Top 36 Semi-Final RoundOfficial Site: American Idol Announces Season 8 Schedule (December 15, 2008)
- February 24 & 25 -Top 36 Semi-Final RoundOfficial Site: American Idol Announces Season 8 Schedule (December 15, 2008)
- March 3 & 4 - Top 36 Semi-Final RoundOfficial Site: American Idol Announces Season 8 Schedule (December 15, 2008)
- Thursday, March 5 - Wildcard ShowOfficial Site: American Idol Announces Season 8 Schedule (December 15, 2008)
- Tuesday, Mar 10 - Top 12 Round beginsOfficial Site: American Idol Announces Season 8 Schedule (December 15, 2008)
Prior Winners
- S1: Kelly Clarkson
- S2: Ruben Studdard
- S3: Fantasia Barrino
- S4: Carrie Underwood
- S5: Taylor Hicks
- S6: Jordin Sparks
- S7: David Cook
Prior Runner-ups
- S1: Justin Guarini
- S2: Clay Aiken
- S3: Diana DeGarmo
- S4: Bo Bice
- S5: Katharine McPhee
- S6: Blake Lewis
- S7: David Archuleta
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American Idol Spoilers Questions
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What is the American Idol theme tonight? 1 AnswerTop Downloads http://www.americanidolfan.net/2009/03/american-idol-theme-33109-top-downloads-itunes-theme.html "The American Idol theme for March 31, 2009 will... read more -
Do you agree with the decision regarding Nick Mitchell / Normund Gentle on American Idol tonight? (SPOILERS) 8 AnswersI'm another that thinks she shouldn't have made it that far. When he really tried to sing, the man could sing. But the whole comedy routine belong on that stu... read more -
Where can I buy American Idol trading cards? 2 Answershttp://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hwJh-PI9GKsX3kSdoVcedxue31ewD96VUDNO3 ""Idol" production company FremantleMedia and trading card publisher Up... read more -
Does anyone have the video of Lady Gaga on American Idol? 2 AnswersHere is some videos of Lady Gaga on "American Idol."Enjoy. read more
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American Idol Season 8 Contestant and Show Gossip
- Rumored performers for the finale show are Jason Mraz, Keith Urban, Cyndi Lauper, Lionel Richie, Carlos Santana and David Cook. There's been talk of KISS appearing, but nothing has been confirmed.
- MJ's Big Blog: Paula Abdul Spills Finale Details (May 19, 2009)
- Presale passwords for the summer tour have been announced.
- Ticket Presale Passwords Blog: American Idol (May 8, 2009)
- Tickemaster: American Idol Ticket Sales
- Here's more of the scoop behind the accidents that took place the day of the top 4 performances. Stage manager Debbie Williams fell down a 20 foot flight of stairs. She was taken to the hospital by ambulance, but was said to be waving and smiling as she left the building. One hour after the show, Ryan Seacrest tweeted that Williams was doing better.
- Twitter: Ryan Seacrest Tweet
- TMZ: American Idol Injury -- Victim Rushed to Hospital (May 5, 2009)
- INJURY UPDATE: According to People magazine, Debbie Williams suffered a deep gash down to the bone in her leg which required stitches.
- People: Chaotic Scene Unfolds at American Idol (May 5, 2009)
- Another incident also occurred, one of the huge Idol hanging signs crashed to the stage. No one was injured, and the sign wasn't fixed in time for the live show.
- reality blurred: American Idol stage explodes after stage manager falls down stairs (April 5, 2009)
- Kris Allen recently took over Danny Gokey's second place position for sales on iTunes. Adam Lambert remains number one and has been for weeks.
- New York Post: Kris Allen Second Favorite on iTunes (April 28, 2009)
- Kara DioGuardi admitted to once having an eating disorder! Check out her page for more details.
- The Gospel Music Channel featured previous Idol's including Phil Stacey, Mandisa Hundley, Chris Sligh and Melinda Doolittle. The name of the documentary is From Idol to Inspiration and will air before the Dove Awards on April 23, 2009 on The Gospel Music Channel. Please check your local listings for times.
- Paula Abdul tweeted to a fan that she may be performing on the idol stage within a month.
- Paula's Twitter Feed
- Have some news about past Idols, Jason Castro was finally signed to a record label and expects to have his first album out by the end of this year. Jessica Sierra was arrested again, this time for busting someone over the head with a heavy glass. While she was being searched, cops found cocaine in her possession.
- Idol won a Kids Choice Award for "Best Reality Show".
- Are the contestants lip-syncing in the group performances? (Say it isn't so!) Season 1 runner up, Justin Guarini says they are indeed pre-recorded.
- Idol Tracker (LAT): Idol Contestants Lip-Syncing the Group Numbers? (March 23, 2009)
- The new farewell song was sung by Carrie Underwood. It's a cover of Motley Crue's "Home Sweet Home." This will be playing during the video montage of each contestant after they are voted off.
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American Idol Season Finale
- For those who are taping the performance, please record the show scheduled to air after Idol, it's scheduled to go over its allotted time slot.
- Only Kris Allen and Adam Lambert remain. Who will win American Idol! Stay with us as we live-blog the show. Just under 100 million votes, with 624 million votes in total for the season.
- Ryan made fun of Randy for his "me for you for me" statements, then made fun of Kara for calling everyone "sweetie." He then turned to Paula for the way she uses big words in her vocabulary. Simon was introduced as the man who hears everything, then a short tape played with him and every time he said "what?"
- Kris and Adam have taken the stage. They are both all in white. Ryan's asking a few questions, but the microphone's aren't working properly.
- In Conway, Arkansas, the crowd is going wild and the reporter, Mikalah Gordon, turns to a kid who refuses to talk. Nice.
- In San Diego, Carly Smithson is the reporter; she's rooting for Adam to win. It's another huge crowd.
- To kick off the show, the top 13 took the stage to perform "So What," originally by Pink.
- Last years winner David Cook performed his new single "Permanent." David admits it was a tough song to sing after his the passing of his brother, Adam Cook. All the iTunes sales profit will go to benefit cancer research. He thinks both of this years contestants are fantastic and doesn't think American can go wrong.
- It's time for the awards portion of the program. "The Golden Idol Awards." The nominees for outstanding male (they are really for worst auditions) are Will Coolage, Michael Gurr, Elijah Scarlett, Dean-Anthony Bradford (the guy in the funky plaid coat)and Nick Mitchell. And the winner is... Nick Mitchell, better known as Norman Gentle. He made it into the top 36, the guy who dressed as a nerd.
- Norman claimed to have not known he was to get an award, but ripped off his sweatshirt and started singing! He sang that "and you, and you" song from Dreamgirls.
- Lil Rounds sang "Cue the Rain"as a duet with Queen Latifah!
- Anoop Desai took the stage, singing "I'm Yours" with Alexis Grace, then joined by Jason Mraz.
- A recap of Kris' Idol journey, from auditions, mentors and more was shown.
- Kris Allen took the stage with Keith Urban, singing "Kiss a Girl."
- Allison Iraheta, Megan Joy, Jasmine Murray, Alexis Grace sang "Glamorous" to introduce Fergie, who sang "Big Girls Don't Cry". Fergie was joined by the Black Eyed Peas and sang "Boom Boom Pow."
- The next award will go to one who has showed "composure" under fire. The nominees are Katrina Darrell, better known as "Bikini Girl," Alexis Cohen and Tiffany Shedd. The Golden Idol goes to Katrina. She took the stage in a bikini; Ryan noticed her new boob job. Ryan asked her to sing one more time, just for Ryan and Simon. Katrina sang "Vision of Love" by Mariah Carey, but wait! Kara DioGuardi took the stage and they are singing a duet! Kara pulled open her dress, revealing she looked hot in a bikini also!
- Ryan said he made a bet that Kara wouldn't go through with the reveal, and will donate money to Kara's favorite charity because she did it.
- Allison Iraheta sang "Time After Time" as a duet with Cyndi Lauper. (Wow, they put a really odd finish to the song, never heard it like that.)
- Kris Allen's parents would like to thank all the people who voted for their son.
- On the other side of the Nokia theater are Adam Lambert's parents. They are very proud of their son; mom calls both of the contestants "winners."
- Danny Gokey sang "Hello," originally by Lionel Richie. Lionel then joined Danny singing "Just Go" and "All Night Long."
- Ryan announced a special "winners iTunes" pack, visit americanidol.com for more details.
- Time to look at Adam and his Idol journey. The showed clips of his audtion, singing with Randy Travis (along with Randy's reaction to Adam's "Ring of Fire.") Hollywood week was included and other clips.
- Adam's now singing "Beth" by KISS. Adam then introduced KISS, and performed "Detroit Rock City" and "Rock N Roll All Night" with the band.
- Carlos Santana made magic with his guitar to the song "Black Magic Woman" with Matt Giraud on vocals. They went into "Smooth," joined by Jorge Nunez, Adam Lambert, Kris Allen, Danny Gokey, Lil Rounds, Anoop Desai, Alexis Grace. OK, they are all there.
- The final ford music video featured all the contestants, with Adam and Kris singing lead vocals to "I Will Remember You" by Sarah McLachlan.
- David Cook presented Kris and Adam new Ford Fusions.
- Megan Joy, Michael Sarver sang "Pretty Flowers" with Steve Martin on the banjo. It's a written by Steve Martin and can be found on his new album The Crow.
- The boys from the top 13 are singing Rod Stewart's "If You Think I'm Sexy." Rod Stewart then took the stage to sing "Maggie May."
- (They showed a clip of Bo Bice in the audience; Janice Dickinson is rockin out to Rod. Lots of big names in the audience tonight.)
- Time for the last Golden Idol award for the evening, this one for Outstanding Female (also bad auditions). The nominees are Chelsea Marquardt, Irene Anguelova, Dana Moreno and Tatiana Del Toro. The award, of course, went to Tatiana. She looked shocked in the audience, but Ryan asked her to stay seated because they had to break for commercial. She rushed the stage and grabbed the microphone, singing "Saving All My Love For You" by Whitney Houston.
- Last song of the evening was Kris Allen and Adam Lambert singing "We Are The Champions" joined by Queen.
- And the winner is... Kris Allen!!! Kris was totally dumbfounded, he even said "Adam deserves this, I don't even know what to feel right now." He took the stage to perform the coronation song, "No Boundaries."
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Top 2 Performance Night
- Live from the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles! It's the final showdown! It's down to Kris and Adam, two uniquely different contestants.
- Kris won the coin toss and has chosen to perform second.
- Each of the guys has three songs tonight; one reprise of their favorite performance, one chosen by Simon Fuller, and the coronation song written by Kara DioGuardi.
- Adam's parents taped a segment talking about his youth. His parents say Adam used the drive them crazy with all his screaming, they couldn't even take him anywhere.
- Adam's singing "Mad World", from "songs from the year you were born" week.
- Yahoo! Video: Adam's Mad World Reprise (Time: 6:16)
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- Randy says "we're down to the wire and I love that you're showing your sensitive side. I'm going to give you an A+ for that one dude." Kara is happy he chose that song, when he originally performed it - it changed the competition." Paula is unbelievable proud of him for being on the stage and thought he did a brilliant job. Simon says the first time was Adam's best performance on the show, but this one was a little over theatrical with the long coat and dry ice.
- Adams numbers:
- 1-866-IDOLS 01, 03 or 05
- Text Vote to 5701 for AT&T customers.
- When Kris was a child, he didn't like singing in front of his family so they had to pay him a quarter to get him to sing. One year, Kris gave his mother a coupon book filled with "singing coupons" that she can cash in whenever she wants.
- Kris is singing as his personal choice "Ain't No Sunshine" while playing the piano.
- Yahoo! Video: Kris' Repise of "Ain't No Sunshine" (Time: 5:45)
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- Randy said Kris saved one of the best for last, calling this his best performance on stage. Kara agreed, saying "If someone isn't moved by you, they're not listening." Paula thinks he's "Allenized" everyone and awakened their spirits. Simon said he wasn't sure last week if American had made the right decision in keeping him, but takes all that back after this performance.
- Kris' numbers:
- 1-866-IDOLS 02, 04 or 06
- Text Vote to 5702 for AT&T customers.
- Simon thinks Kris won round one.
- Simon Fuller picked "Change is Gonna Come," originally by Sam Cooke for Adam to perform.
- Yahoo! Video: "A Change Is Gonna Come" by Adam Lambert (Time: 4:48)
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- Randy thinks the song itself was amazing, and Adam showed us that "you can sing your face off." Kara believes it might have been his best performance and interpretation of anything he's performed on stage. Paula stood up hollering "that was the best I've ever heard you sing and you look like a superstar!" Simon laughed a Paula, then added that Adam is 100% back in the game.
- Next up is Kris, he's singing Simon Fuller's choice, "What's Going On," originally by Marvin Gaye.
- Yahoo! Video: "What's Going On" by Kris Allen (Time: 4:06)
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- Randy thinks "we've got a real live competition here, but it was a little light for this point in the competition." Kara loved that Kris has been true to himself and hasn't played to the competition. Kris is the type of guy to deliver the message in the song. Paula knows "what's going on, you tor it up and made Marvin Gaye proud!" Simon loved the song, but thought it was like listening to three friends in the bedroom strumming along to Marvin Gaye. "It was too laid back for a night like this."
- Simon thinks Adam won round two.
- The top 10 of this season is in the audience.
- Adam is performing "No Boundaries," co-written by Kara.
- Yahoo! Video: "No Boundaries" by Adam Lambert (Time: 5:50)
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- Randy believes Adam can sing anything, but it wasn't one of his favorite performances. Kara thinks its amazing when someone of you talent sings a song we've written. "I'm proud and I thank you for giving me this moment." Paula says it's been remarkable what Adam has brought to the show, she'll be a fan forever. Simon laughed a bit at the song, but thought Adam was the most original contestant they've ever had on the show. He feels with all his heart they have found a world-wide star in Adam.
- For the last song of the season, Kris will close out with the same song, "No Boundaries." (No wonder they aren't forgetting the lyrics, there was a quick shot of a teleprompter!")
- Yahoo! Video: "No Boundaries" by Kris Allen (Time: 4:58)
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- Randy thinks Kris should be very proud of himself, even though the pitch was a little high for him. "The song suited you better than Adam." Kara agreed, saying the pitch was too high, but thinks he's had an incredible season and hopes people vote based on the season and not on this song only. Paula thinks he's done an amazing song and this has been the most compelling showdown yet. Simon still liked his first performance best, but remembers back to when Kris first auditioned and how awkward he was. Simon believes Kris has earned his spot on the stage.
- The show was closed with Carrie Underwood singing "Home Sweet Home" with a recap of touching moments from the season.
- Yahoo! Video: Carrie Underwood "Home Sweet Home" (Time: 3:13)
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Top 3 Elimination Night
- Ben Stiller and a few other actors opened up Idol saying that Ryan Seacrest couldn't join them because of a bikini wax injury. Then went on and on about the judges desk taking its spot in the Smithsonian museum. It was really a plug for Night at the Museum; Battle of the Smithsonian.
- Once Ryan came on, he confirmed that the desk and other items would be donated to the museum. Over 88 million votes were cast, with only 1 million votes separating the top 2.
- The Ford music video featured the Ford Mustang, sung to "Break My Stride," originally by Matthew Wilder.
- Alicia Keys brought a young African man to the stage, asking for donations for medical protection for these kids. She asked viewers to text the word Alive to 90999 to donate $5.00, then reply yes to accept the charges. He sung "I'm The World's Greatest" after learning it in English after only one week.
- New dates have been added to the Idol tour.
- Ryan asked Danny Gokey to come to the stage. They talked about his hometown visit and his reunion with his best friend Jamar, who didn't make it on the show. In Milwaukee, Danny was greeted by thousands of screaming fans. He appeared on the local news and radio stations and was shocked at the reception he was given by the fans. There was a parade in his honor, Jamar attended it with him. The experience left Danny in tears.
- After reviewing the comments from the judges, Danny was asked to take a seat, the results would come later.
- Kris Allen was introduced. He went to his home of Conway, Arkansas. Kris went to his favorite restaurant, where he will get free cheese dip for life. Upon his arrival at the airport, he went straight to the local news station, with fans streaming in from everywhere. Early the next day, he attended a local radio session, then off to the Riverfest amphitheater. He was able to spend some time with his extended family, and shared a loving embrace from his father. He performed a song for a crowd at the University of Central Arkansas. Later in the day, Kris attended a parade in his honor, joined by his wife. At Simon Park (Simon Park?? lol), the day was proclaimed "Kris Allen Day" by the mayor.
- Ryan then reviewed the feedback from his latest performances. He was sent to the couch to await the results.
- Season 6 winner, Jordin Sparks sang her new single "Battlefield." The co-writer of the song, Ryan Tedder from OneRepublic played the piano accompaniment.
- Adam Lambert was the last to take the stage with Ryan to discuss hometown visits. Adam went back to San Diego. While at home, a girl stripped off her clothes and tried to bum-rush him while on stage. His first stop was to a local news station, where he had fun with the green screen and did the weather girl's makeup. He then went to a radio station and to the Metropolitan Educational Theatre, where he performed as a child. He was greeted by many of the students and presented with a plaque for his Idol success. After questions and autographs, he was whisked off to Mt. Carmel High School with his mother, where the day was declared "Adam Lambert Day" by the mayor. (This is where the teen tried to rush the stage.) Adam then went to the Marine Corps Air Station to meet with more fans and perform in an airport hanger.
- More reminders of the judges feedback from the previous evening, then Adam was sent to the couch.
- Katy Perry performed "Waking Up in Vegas." She wore a rhinestone studded cape with the words "Adam Lambert" embroidered on the cape.
- First person in the finals is Kris Allen! Next is Adam Lambert! That means Danny Gokey has been eliminated.
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Top 3 Performance Night
- Tonight, the idols will sing one song selected from the panel of judges, and one song of their own choosing. One week from tonight is the finale!
- While at a radio station in Milwaukee, Danny Gokey got a text message from Paula Abdul telling him that he'll be singing "Dance Little Sister" by Terence Trent D'Arby. He seemed nervous, as he had never heard the song. Paula thought Danny possessed the same magic of D'Arby and would perform it well.
- Yahoo! Video: Danny Gokey "Dance Little Sister" (Time: 6:29)
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- After performing, Randy said "let the games begin, what a way to start off the show, that was dope for me dude." Kara liked the song choice, but that the dancing had too my gyration. Paula thought he did really good with his dancing and was excited that he let out the magic part of his voice for the song. Simon reminded the girls that it's a singing competition, not a dancing competition. He said it was vocally very good, but didn't like the sax solo in the middle of the performance.
- Kara and Randy asked Kris Allen to sing "Apologize" by OneRepublic. Kara and Randy agreed that Kris needed a big moment and this just might be the song to do it for him.
- Yahoo! Video: Kris Allen "Apologize" (Time: 6:57)
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- Randy said it showed everyone who Kris can be in the future and that it was really nice. Kara thought it was a nice performance, but that he didn't swing it out of the park. Paula mentioned there was a loud bum note, but that all three finalists were worthy of being in the top two spot. Simon called Kara a cop-out, saying "you can't pick a song for him then blame him for doing the song." Kara got a big miffed and hollered to Simon "have you ever interpreted a song in your life? I don't think so!" Randy asked if the judges should be able to work out the arrangement, Simon agreed they should be able to. Simon went on to say that Randy and Kara failed Kris by not helping him with the arrangement, to which Randy responded that he didn't think they were allowed to. (Very heated between Kara and Simon; if looks could kill, Simon would be dead.)
- Simon asked Adam Lambert to sing "One" by U2. Simon said that it's one of his favorite songs in the world and had to get special permission from the band for Adam to sing the song.
- Yahoo! Video: Adam Lambert "One" (Time: 5:56)
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- Randy said "you are in the zone", but didn't love Adam going off the melody. Kara called it "unbelievable" because he did his own version "see what I mean Simon?" Paula called it "one brilliant song, one superb performance and one American Idol that I'm staring at right now." Simon thought it was brilliant performance and that if Adam's not in the finals, it would be the biggest upset ever.
- Idol Gives Back has raised over $140 million dollars. (Where's the special show they normally do?) Exxon Mobil took Carrie Underwood to Angola, Africa to see where some of the dollars went. Over 3,000 bed nets have been distributed to stop the spread of malaria and they have been educated on how to properly use them.
- Danny Gokey's personal song choice was "You Are So Beautiful" from Joe Cocker.
- Yahoo! Video: "You Are So Beautiful" (Time: 5:47)
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- Randy thought it was an amazing song and even though the arrangement was different "you are here because you can really, really really sing." Kara thought Danny made up for anything that may have been lacking in the first performance, calling Danny's version "stunning." Paula said that it left everyone breathless, "you nailed it, it was a beautiful beautiful performance." Simon said that it didn't need to be rearranged, then went on to say what Danny did with it was a "vocal masterclass."
- Kris Allen's personal song choice was "Heartless" by Kanye West.
- Yahoo! Video: Kris Allen "Heartless" (Time: 5:39)
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- Randy said "this is gonna be one of the toughest voting nights in the history of the show. I liked that version better than The Fray's version, better than Kanye's version! That was better than the original!" Kara wanted to know why he didn't do it with the first song and told him it was "perfect!" Paula called Kris brave for singing a song about Simon Cowell. She then went on and called him relevant for today's music. Simon had written Kris out after the first performance, then said that it all changed after that performance.
- Adam's personal song choice was "Cryin" by Aerosmith.
- Yahoo! Video: Adam Lambert "Cryin" (Time: 5:13)
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- Randy called Adam "one of the best we've ever had on this stage. You should be a rock star!" Kara wants to know how Adam hits the high notes and be able to talk the next day. "We'll see you at the finals." Paula thought that if Stephen Tyler was a mentor, he would have "no problem with that." Simon didn't want to assume Adam would sail through to the finals and asked everyone to vote for Adam because he deserved a spot in the finals.
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Top 4 Elimination Night
- Over 64 million votes were registered, the most ever except for a finale. Who will leave tonight?
- The Ford commercial was sung to "Move Along" by The All-American Rejects.
- Slash played guitar for the group performance "School's Out," originally by Alice Cooper. Slash is working on a new solo album featuring different artists, but he wouldn't give up any of the artists names.
- Simon told Kris Allen to stop being so humble. Adam Lambert loved being the first one to sing Led Zeppelin (and loved his outfit.) Danny Gokey admits to laughing at his performance after watching it back, even admitting that his aunt muted the television when the "scream" played. Allison Iraheta felt Simon was asking for sass last night and she just had to give it to him.
- Paula Abdul performed her new single "I'm Just Here For The Music." It's the first time she's performed on the Idol stage. The performance had to be lip-synced, as with the way she's dancing there's just no way to keep her voice steady. She was surrounded by male dancers and flailed all over the place.
- No Doubt lead by Gwen Stefani performed "Just a Girl from 1995 album Tragic Kingdom. Definitely sounded like a live performance. (The male drummer is wearing a tutu.) Their tour is set to kick off starting in Las Vegas next week and a new album is expected.
- The contestants who make it through this week will get to go on hometown visits. They shows recaps from many previous finalists on their trips home and the response from their towns.
- The finalists were announced in random order, there was no bottom three.
- First safe contestant was Kris Allen! He looked totally shocked and his wife was in the audience crying.
- They showed a recap of Chris Daughtry's Idol experience and his success after the show. He and his band are working on a new album due to be released in July. They performed "No Surprise," the first single from the album. Kris Allen presented Chris Daughtry their 5 million albums sold platinum award.
- Next safe contestant is Adam Lambert.
- Danny Gokey was, Allison was eliminated.
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Top 4 Performance Night
- There was an accident earlier on stage before the live performance, tower bearing the American Idol logo crashed! Some of the contestants didn't get their usual practice run. Two duets will be performed, a first for Idol.
- Slash is introduced, very "rockerish" intro. (Still can't believe they finally got a true rock icon on the show.) He's currently in the process of recording his first solo album. He's mentoring the kids different than normal, the full band is included and the contestants will be singing at "full volume."
- Adam Lambert was first, singing "Whole Lotta Love" by Led Zeppelin. Slash said "Adam has some pipes, he's got so much range, it's effortless." Slash recommended Adam not play with runs so much in the upper register.
- YouTube Video: "Whole Lotta Love" (Time: 2:04)
- Randy said "this is the Adam that I love, you're a rock star tonight, no one is going to think about Broadway after a performance like that, you and Slash should make a record. That was hot!" Kara called him a "rock God". Paula said that band sounded great, but that Adam was a "whole lotta perfect." Simon joked, saying the performance was understated. "It was one of my favorite performances you've ever done.
- Allison Iraheta sang "Cry Baby" by Janis Joplin. Slash said Allison has a natural rock n roll swagger, but she needs to get past her fears and "bring it."
- Yahoo! Video: Allison Iraheta "Cry Baby" (Time: 6:58)
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- Randy didn't love the song choice, and didn't think it was that great. Kara thought doing Janis was the right choice, but should have sung "Piece of My Heart." Paula thinks Allison is fearless and that if they ever do a biopic of Janis Joplin, she should get the role. Simon thought she had complete confidence and it was a terrific vocal. His only criticism was that Allison sounded too much like Janis and didn't make it her own.
- First of the duets! Danny Gokey and Kris Allen sang "Renegade" by Styx.
- Yahoo! Video: Danny Gokey and Kris Allen Duet "Renegade" (Time: 4:21)
- Randy really liked the harmonies and thought they complemented each other well. Kara wasn't sure they could hear themselves, as there were pitchy moments. Paula loves the duets and called it "powerful and compelling." Simon said Danny was better than Kris.
- Kris Allen went next with "Come Together" by The Beatles. Slash loaned Kris his guitar and amp for the rehearsal. Kris almost wanted to pee in his pants after playing side-by-side with Slash. The only advice Slash offered was for Kris to pick up the performance end of things.
- YouTube Video: Kris Kris Allen "Come Together" (Time: 1:43)
- Randy said that Kris isn't really a rock guy, but appreciates him picking something he can still be himself with. He went on to say to vocals weren't over the top, but loved watching Kris on the guitar. Kara called Kris "the softer side of rock" and didn't think it was a great performance. Paula thought it was risky doing a Beatles song, but feels that Kris is deserving to be on the stage. Simon didn't like it and compared it to eating ice for lunch.
- Danny Gokey sang "Dream On" by Aerosmith. Slash said Danny picked a tough vocal song and has to get the end scream just right to do well. (Danny just murdered one of the best songs in history. I'm so not happy.)
- YouTube Video: Danny Gokey "Dream On" (Time: 2:04)
- Randy said it was alright, not perfect or great, but gives Danny an A+ for effort. Kara thinks Danny took the swagger thing too far, and would rather have heard Danny sing "early Aerosmith like "Cryin" or "Crazy." (Um, Kara, both of those are much newer than "Dream On." "Dream On" came out in 1976, "Cryin" in 1993, "Crazy" in 1994.) Paula didn't think this was the right song for Danny, but is still a huge fan. Simon agrees with everyone, but said the last note was like watching a horror movie and thinks Danny will be safe tonight.
- And they went over their timeslot again tonight! Allison and Adam's duet was "Slow Ride" by Foghat.
- YouTube Video: Allison Iraheta and Adam Lambert "Slow Ride" (Time: 2:04)
- Randy thought they should do a duet, "that was the bomb baby." Kara said "rock God, rock Goddess, this is when a duet is right." Paula thought they were a perfect blend and a perfect marriage. "It's a beautiful thing!" Simon said in the battle of duets, Adam and Allison won the competition, and think their performance might give Allison a chance to stay on the show. (Adam said "hope so" to Simon's comment about Allison.
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Top 5 Elimination Night
- Over 47 million votes were cast for the remaining Idols.
- Simon felt that after he watched the show on television last night, that everyone was good and the competition is wide open for anyone to win.
- This week's Ford commercial highlighted the Fusion, sung to "Energy."
- The group performance was a medley of "I Don't Need a Thing" and "I Got Rhythm."
- Danny's birthday was last Friday, Allison's was on Monday. The group showed off their culinary skills making cakes, and it didn't take long for the food fights to begin. Danny was blamed for starting it. Ryan presented Danny with the bill from Best Bets Maid service, as it cost $6,000 to clean up the mess they made.
- Time for results. He's dividing the contestants. Matt to stage right, Danny to stage left along with Allison. Kris joined Matt. Adam was left in the center and was asked to look at both groups and decide which he belonged in. Based on last night, Adam choose Allison and Danny to stand with.
- He chose the wrong group and was in the bottom three! The bottom three was Kris, Adam and Matt!
- Natalie Cole performed "Somethings Gotta Give" from her Still Unforgettable album. She's headed to Korea for a tour.
- Taylor Hicks performed "Seven Mile Breakdown" from his album The Distance.
- Kris Allen was sent to safety, leaving both Adam and Matt up for elimination.
- Jamie Foxx performed his song his number one song "Blame It."
- After 47 million votes, the highest of the season, Adam is safe. Matt Giraud has been eliminated from Idol.
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Top 5 Performance Night
- Welcome to another edition of American Idol. The finale is only 3 weeks away! Each contestant had two phone numbers for callers to vote.
- The theme is "Standards from the Rat Pack Era." Jamie Foxx was the surprise mentor! He's a classically trained artist with many awards for his R&B music.
- Kris Allen began the show with "The Way You Look Tonight," originally sung by Fred Astaire. Jamie Foxx was impressed with Allen's version of the song and wanted to record an album with him. The statement left Allen floored.
- Photobucket Video: Kris Allen "The Way You Look Tonight" (Time: 6:06)
- Randy opened up the judging by saying that he wanted to see who was in it to win it, and that this was his best performance to date. "Mad nice vocals baby, nice." Kara added that these songs gave him a unique opportunity to show off his vocals. "You are truly a dark horse in this competition." Paula said that he has turned from the boy next door into a sophisticated gentleman and called him a "contemporary crooner." Simon thought it was good, but a little bit wet. "Like taking a well trained spaniel for a walk, it was expected and I don't think you can win this competition."
- Allison Iraheta sang "Someone To Watch Over Me" originally composed by George Gershwin, written by Ira Gershwin. It premiered in the musical Oh, Kay! in 1926 and has since become a classic. Jamie Foxx thought Allison would shock the world with her rendition, if she can reach inside her soul.
- Photobucket Video: Allison Iraheta "Someone To Watch Over Me" (Time: 7:41)
- Randy thought this week would have been rough on her because of the genre. He compared her fashion style to Brittany Murphy and her vocal style to Pink, but with "like 12 more octaves." Kara believes that Allison made some new fans tonight and hopes she makes it to the finals. Paula wanted to hear Allison sing a ballad, and called Allison's version alluring and tender. Simon asked Allison if she could win the competition at this stage, she answered "I think I can, I think all of us have that chance right now." Simon doesn't believe that she truly believes in herself.
- Matt Giraud sang "My Funny Valentine" from the musical Babes in Arms, recorded in 1937. After singing it for Jamie Foxx, Giraud asked what could be changed to make it better, Foxx said it was good. After Giraud left the room, Foxx called him back in and changed his mind about the feedback. Foxx asked Giraud to change the key to make it better.
- Photobucket Video: Matt Giraud "My Funny Valentine" (Time: 6:26)
- Randy thought it was one of the hardest songs to sing ever and that it was a little bit pitchy. Kara said Giraud needed to be the leader of the pack and didn't think he was emotionally connected. Paula loved it and felt the emotional connection, it was "pure, simple and really impressive." Simon disagreed with Randy, he thought it was the only believable authentic song he heard tonight. "I thought you were absolutely brilliant."
- Danny Gokey sang "Come Rain or Come Shine" was written by Johnny Mercer for the musical St. Louis Woman in 1946. Gokey was initially shy singing in front of Jamie Foxx and was out of his comfort zone singing in front of the Foxx. After prompting by Foxx, Gokey came out of his shell and did well.
- Photobucket Video: Danny Gokey "Come Rain or Come Shine" (Time: 6:43)
- Randy said "you are the only one I've heard so far tonight who could actually have an album like that and win!" Kara admitted to missing Danny's "rat pack swagger, and you had swag tonight! It was unbelievable!" Paula said "stellar, stellar stellar performance. You can see the finish line right in front of you." Simon said his point is now proven, his performance was outstanding, "what Jamie Foxx brought out in you was incredible".
- Adam Lambert closed the show with "Feeling Good" written in 1965 for the musical The Roar of the Greasepaint-the Smell of the Crowd. Jamie Foxx was thrilled with Adam's version of the song and said "he's going to knock everyone's head off."
- Photobucket Video: Adam Lambert "Feeling Good" (Time: 5:55)
- Randy thought it was a little "theatrical and broadway" but thought it was another good performance. Kara thinks Adam is "confusing and shocking and sleazy and over the top and superb." Paula said "you make me feel better than good. It's like watching the Olympics and you're our Michael Phelps." Simon didn't understand Randy's complaining about it being theatrical and said "that's like complaining that a cow moo's." Simon can tell that Adam is here to win and entertain, then went on to say that Adam's entrance was the best of the year.
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American Idol Season 8 Top 8 Contestants
- <td align="left" valign="top" width="349px">
- Anoop Desai
- Matt Giraud
- Scott MacIntyre
- Lil Rounds
- </td>
- <td align="left" valign="top" width="349px">
- Adam Lambert
- Allison Iraheta
- Kris Allen
- Danny Gokey
- </td>
- </tr>
- </table>
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