I have been saying for eight weeks that Jordin would win. I still think so. I didn’t post my predictions this week, but I did say privately at home, that Melinda would be eliminated tonight. NOT because she deserves it, and NOT because the other two are (that abstract judgement) “better singers” than she is, but for a whole host of subtler reasons. Melinda came across, almost subliminally, FROM THE VERY BEGINNING, as someone who almost “didn’t belong there”. True, she is outstanding, highly polished, in a league by herself, and all that type of stuff, but psychologically , it seemed like she already WAS the winner, so what was the point in voting for her?
There was no surprise from week to week, she was consistent every week, which “on paper” looks good, but psychologically, removes the whole dimension of surprise and involvement. People who watch and vote on American Idol are flattered into believing they themselves are creating stardom for somebody. Melinda came across as somebody who already SHOULD HAVE BEEN a star, but somehow WASN’T. THAT is why she was eliminated.Jordin, on the other hand, is someone who at her tender age looks like she has unlimited potential. In twelve years, Jordin will NOT be competing against the likes of someone like herself, which is the position that 29-year-old Melinda unfortunately was in. I am not at all surprised that she was eliminated, and I think it was for those reasons. I still think Jordin will win, and have believed that for a LONG time, and I am really surprised Blake made it this far, even though his boldness and originality are unmistakable-—I underestimated the broadness of his appeal, or the tenacity of his fan-base, whichever one of those may apply.
Great point, although I might quibble on the size or number of Idol watchers who fit in that category.
I am so sad that Melinda was sent home last night that I don’t even feel like posting today.
I don’t think I agree entirely with your analysis. Yes, we do like to see someone who improves from week to week, and there is always the charm of the ugly duckling who turns into a beautifu swan at the end of the story.
I think Melinda just wasn’t flashy enough. She is modest and understated. She wouldn’t let her boobs bounce around (like LaKisha), or try outlandish hairdos (Sanjaya), or sing songs with dirty lyrics (like Blake).
Melinda would not compromise her Christian beliefs.
She is already a real winner in many other ways. She doesn’t need AI.