Once again, “American Idol’s” obscene amount of votes rivaled that of federal elections in tiny island nations … tiny islands called Australia. So, how would the 53 million votes be dispersed? Would they contribute to another Idol Shocker á là Pia and Casey, or would they shock us in a different way, by sending the first male contestant home since the Top 13?
We barely had time to ponder such questions, as Ryan cut right to the Idols singing in groups again. In theory, this is a great idea. We get to see the hopefuls perform without anything on the line — though, let’s face it, we are always silently critiquing them. The problem is, with such an eclectic group of genres represented, some of the contestants end up getting the short end of the stick, lumped into pairings and groups that don’t make sense.
Like the last group singing night, Lauren and Scotty kicked it off with a country tune, Lady Antebellum’s “American Honey.” This obvious pairing is a prime example of “something that works.” When does that begin to be unfair though? We may not be able to vote on results night, but we’re definitely capable of taking mental notes.
The teens played perfectly off each other, like a miniature version of guest performers Kelly Clarkson and Jason Aldrean. They share the same genre and have already experienced singing together in front of millions of people. Add to that the fact that neither has been in the Bottom Three and it seems a little unfair to put this power couple together. I see country-on-country finale in the future!
After a zombie-themed Ford music video, it was time for Haley and Casey to duet with the jazzy “Moanin’” by Sarah Vaughan — fitting since they are rumored to be “together.” If anyone thought the country duet seemed slightly unfair, this pairing should spark complete and utter moral outrage.
It was amazing.
While Casey’s passionate music prowess always comes through, his presence seemed to elevate Haley’s performance; she was nothing short of a revelation. Looking more retro chic than bowling alley cheap, she matched Casey scat-for-scat and the two blended perfectly. And who knew she had that range?
Unfair advantage, indeed.
Ryan called Haley, Casey, Lauren and Scotty over to hear their fates. Scotty was sent to safety right away, maintaining his perfect record. One of the three was in danger of being sent home. Next, he turned to Lauren and told her to take a seat on the couch. (Looks like stealing Pia’s votes paid off!)
It seemed outrageous that Casey or Haley should go home after the performance they just gave, but at this point, every elimination seems outrageous on some level. They are just all so good and all so different.
Ryan handed down the news: Haley was in the Bottom Three yet again.
Some levity was added by director and “Idol” superfan Rob Reiner, who stopped by earlier in the week to stress the importance of music in the movies. He shared the hilarious lyrics he wrote for the “Chariots of Fire” theme and encouraged the Idols to dip their toes into the acting pool, citing successes like Jennifer Hudson’s Oscar-winning performance in “Dreamgirls.”
They can’t all be winners, though. He referred to “From Justin to Kelly” as “a brilliant film that was overlooked at Oscar time because of politics or something.” I own it and, yes, it really was that bad.
Speaking of Kelly, she returned to the Idol Stage with Jason Aldean to perform their platinum single “Don’t You Wanna Stay.” Aldean is the most mysterious cowboy I’ve ever seen, as the shadow cast by his Stetson completely obstructed his face. That didn’t stop him from connecting with Clarkson, though. Proving why she’s everyone’s favorite American Idol, she belted alongside Aldean with ease. It is always a treat to see her on the show.
Jacob, Paul, Stefano and James formed an underwhelming supergroup whom I’ve affectionately dubbed “The Leftovers.” Singing “The Sound of Silence” and “Mrs. Robinson” from “The Graduate,” they proved that, as a group, they are less than the sum of their parts. Paul and Jacob’s voices could be heard over everyone else’s, with no one even attempting to blend. The Traveling Wilburys they ain’t. This hodgepodge of metal, R&B, adult contemporary and whatever Paul is proved that the group singing numbers don’t always work to everyone’s advantage.
After the lackluster performance, Ryan called the guys over to face the music. Jacob already looked defeated before Ryan even opened his mouth. It seems he’s had a cloud of melancholy over him ever since Jimmy chastised him for preaching to America. Ryan sent James to the couches right away, no surprise, as along with only Lauren and Scotty, he’s never been in the Bottom Three.
Two out of the three remaining guys would be in the Bottom Three. Ryan turned to Stefano. “After the nationwide vote — I hate to tell you this — you are in the Bottom Three.” This was a particularly harsh blow since, just one night before Stefano had given what many consider to be his strongest performance.
It was down to Paul and Jacob, one of whom would be in danger. Last week, it was Jacob who landed in the Bottom Three, while Paul was sent to the couches. America is fickle, though. “This week after the vote, the tables have turned,” said Ryan. “Paul is in the Botttom Three. Jacob, you are safe.” Maybe that melancholy cloud won’t be following Jacob around next week.
After the break, superstar Rihanna showed off her softer side with her new song “California King Bed.” It was nice to see her in a costume that didn’t look like it could gauge her eyes out or electrocute her if she made a misstep in her blocking. I’ve gotta say, though, Jennifer Lopez may be the “Most Beautiful Girl in the World,” but Rihanna is the only person in the world who can make a Ronald McDonald weave sexy.
Back to the results. Ryan broke it down for us: “Since the Top 13 we’ve only seen girls leave this competition. Haley is here hoping to break that trend tonight. As if turns out, she follows in the footsteps … of the others on the couch.”
“Haley, you are safe!”
Rumored former love interest Stefano hugged her and whispered, “You deserve it” as rumored current love interest Casey beamed.
It was down to Paul and Stefano. “Here we go with the first guy to leave the Idol Stage,” said Ryan.
“After the nationwide vote, that guy is … Paul. Stefano, you are safe.”
Paul’s Idol Journey flashed before our eyes. As the crowd rose to its feet, he kept his composure, even flashing his dazzling smile. In fact, the atmosphere was that of a New Orleans funeral, with Ryan calling for a celebration and asking him to sing one last time. A tearful Lopez requested “Maggie May” and McDonald obliged, telling the audience, “Let’s don’t be sad about this.” A true class act, he got everyone on their feet and high fived various audience members and fellow contestants as he sang.
Hey, at least now he’ll be able to spend more time with Nikki Reed.
