Billie Jean David Cook

David Cook sang Michael Jackson's classic song "Billie Jean" on the March 25, 2008 episode of American Idol. Before the performance Cook talked about his childhood. The producer's interviewed his mother and showed pictures of him as a child performance, dressing up, and entertaining his family. During the song, Cook was accompanied by an orchestra, not the usual house band.

Randy Jackson called Cook the most original performer Idol has ever had. Thought he could win the whole thing.

After giving Cook a standing ovation Paula Abdul announced that Cook's performance blew her away.

Simon Cowell called the performance brave and amazing.

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  • David C closes out the show with a rather striking, slow, wailing version of Billie Jean, sans guitar. The version doesn't ring a bell with me, but it's the best performance of the night for undermining expectations. The vocal overdramatics could have been curtailed, but this is the one that people will remember. (Although they might also remember that Chris Cornell (of Soundgarden/Audioslave fame) did a similarly intense version. Prepare yourself for this controversy.) Randy says he's the boldest contestant ever and says it could be an ultimate winner. Paula is blown away. Simon says it was brave and amazing.