Everything I have read says it wasn't last minute. Taylor made the decision himself because he felt that "Somebody to Love" was a great song for Eliot, and he didn't want to step on his friends toes.
Cool, I hope he does great!
Idol winner takes country awards
American Idol winner Carrie Underwood celebrated a double triumph at the Country Music Television Awards.
The singer won best video in the breakthrough and female categories.
More at the link on other winners.