I used to love AI and the opportunity it gave people like Carrie Underwood, Kelly Pickler, and Jennifer Hudson to develop a career they probably would not have had otherwise. I liked that Taylor Hicks got his moment in the national spotlight and then go back to what he was doing.
Something changed. I think that it was really noticable with the Jordan Sparks win. She was obviously well-connected and she was propped up by the judges. I saw her as an okay singer but not really an idol. That's about when the show started having some glitches in their popularity.
What's my point? Look at that final eight. There really isn't someone up there who has that overall appeal to young teens, and they don't want that audience to erode even further. Sometimes, as with Sam, the viewers see weaknesses that the judges miss. They saved him to keep the teenage audience, not because he deserved it....the others have obviously improved so much more. Also, like someone said it might be strategy. Do they get to vote two of them off next week?
Another thought. I liked Paula as a judge, a lot. She was incoherent at some times and maybe overly kind, but she seemed to get those with that inner something to shine. She recognized that unmeasurable quality which is star potential. Without her, the magic of undiscovered talent is gone.
That's my impressions. I think things out best when I'm typing. So, yeah, that's my impression. Also that the heavy set black guy (CJ?) has something special, something he seems to have developed through a combination of life experiences and raw talent.
Yes, the show does “play” too much with the choices. I think they can’t possibly have picked the best ones to get into the top 20 because they really aren’t that good. Almost none of them have any spark.
Only a few idols grow during the live shows, and that is my favorite thing about the show, insecure people who know they have a little talent, who thrive on the work they do on the show and grow in self image. Caleb is definitely doing it this season. Reminds me of the growth of David cook. I’m sorry cookie didn’t become a huge star. I hope Caleb fares better.
And may I suggest that Jonny and all check out the Voice. This week, most of the duets were so good I would have paid money to see them. The judges are truly funny. It is a joy to watch that show. The talent is much higher, mostly. They explain their choices better, though Harry does very well on idol too. I miss you guys when I watch. It’s on mon and tues nights.