Dungeoness crab Jimmy Iovine brought a much-needed reality check to last night’s American Idol with his frank and succinct few-second reviews of season 11′s Top 24 contestants. He should probably just step in and have a seat as a fourth judge!
Anyway, one comment he made about 15-year-old Eben Franckewitz stood out to me. Eben, you’ll remember, is the floppy-haired cherub who tried to set fire to a beloved Adele song on Tuesday’s Top 13 Guys performance night, but then it rained. Giant drops of reality poured down from the top of the Idoldome in thunderous spurts of “oh no you didn’t!
Anyway, one comment he made about 15-year-old Eben Franckewitz stood out to me. Eben, you’ll remember, is the floppy-haired cherub who tried to set fire to a beloved Adele song on Tuesday’s Top 13 Guys performance night, but then it rained. Giant drops of reality poured down from the top of the Idoldome in thunderous spurts of “oh no you didn’t!
- 3/2/2012
- by Annie Barrett
- EW.com - PopWatch
Finally, after what felt like 75 weeks of auditions, "American Idol" has revealed its Top 24. Though none of them really struck me as breakout stars, all fall somewhere between competent and impressive ... although I'm still not feeling particularly invested in seeing any of them become the latest in a long line of failed moderately successful recording artists. Maybe Heejun Han, just for being so hilarious.
After the Feb. 22 ponderous reveals, the final 10 contestants in the Top 24 were:
Adam Brock -- Though the Feb. 22 episode attempted to squeeze out a little dramatic tension by leaving Adam's fate on a "cliffhanger," there was no way that the soulful crooner wasn't making it through to the live rounds. Jeremy Rosado -- Jeremy has been lucky enough to coast along in groups of contestants who are all more talented than he is, allowing him to reflect some of their awesomeness back at the judges by...
After the Feb. 22 ponderous reveals, the final 10 contestants in the Top 24 were:
Adam Brock -- Though the Feb. 22 episode attempted to squeeze out a little dramatic tension by leaving Adam's fate on a "cliffhanger," there was no way that the soulful crooner wasn't making it through to the live rounds. Jeremy Rosado -- Jeremy has been lucky enough to coast along in groups of contestants who are all more talented than he is, allowing him to reflect some of their awesomeness back at the judges by...
- 2/24/2012
- by Laura Prudom
- Aol TV.
This week on American Idol, the semifinalists were chosen! Forty two contestants were cut to the top twenty four which made for some very painful eliminations yet still one of the most talented top twenty four of the series. The judges came face to face with each remaining contestant individually to give the good and bad news, with explanations in tow. While the cuts were deep and disappointing, for the most part, the eliminations made complete sense. As of yet, there were no cuts that left us speechless… but we’ll have to wait until the rest of the top twenty four is revealed tonight for that to remain true.
Setting the bar high for her fellow competitors, Elise Testone made it to the top twenty four and is definitely a force to be reckoned with. She’s the one to beat. Jen Hirsch, who may remind some of Demi Lovato,...
Setting the bar high for her fellow competitors, Elise Testone made it to the top twenty four and is definitely a force to be reckoned with. She’s the one to beat. Jen Hirsch, who may remind some of Demi Lovato,...
- 2/23/2012
- by Melody Simpson
- BuzzFocus.com
Jennifer Lopez showed her true colors on Wednesday’s “final judgment” episode of American Idol – a shimmeringly hypnotic hue of emerald green, to be exact.
Indeed, the Gigli star’s sequined dress was so shiny, it actually managed to reflect the image of her “deeply concerned” face and cast lustrous jade pools back onto her throat. It also sent me into a daydream that she was some kind of glamorous alien, just moments away from peeling back the rest of her human skin, revealing a V-like visage, and devouring whole the American Idol contestants who failed to crack the Season 11 Top 24. “I’m sorry baby,...
Indeed, the Gigli star’s sequined dress was so shiny, it actually managed to reflect the image of her “deeply concerned” face and cast lustrous jade pools back onto her throat. It also sent me into a daydream that she was some kind of glamorous alien, just moments away from peeling back the rest of her human skin, revealing a V-like visage, and devouring whole the American Idol contestants who failed to crack the Season 11 Top 24. “I’m sorry baby,...
- 2/23/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
There were many tears and even more cheers on Wednesday's "American Idol" when the judges revealed 14 of the top 24 semifinlaits for Season 11.
Host Ryan Seacrest described Wednesday's decision as "the final judgment," with some early standouts like Richie Law, Neco Starr, Caleb Johnson, Clayton Farhart, River St. James, Blair Sieber, Naomi Gillies and Lauren Gray sent packing from the competition.
So who made judges' Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson's cut?
The first 14:
1. Jen Hirsh
2. Creighton Fraker
3. Joshua Ledet
4. Haley Johnsen
5. Elise ...
Copyright 2012 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Host Ryan Seacrest described Wednesday's decision as "the final judgment," with some early standouts like Richie Law, Neco Starr, Caleb Johnson, Clayton Farhart, River St. James, Blair Sieber, Naomi Gillies and Lauren Gray sent packing from the competition.
So who made judges' Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson's cut?
The first 14:
1. Jen Hirsh
2. Creighton Fraker
3. Joshua Ledet
4. Haley Johnsen
5. Elise ...
Copyright 2012 by NBC Universal, Inc. All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
- 2/23/2012
- by nobody@accesshollywood.com (AccessHollywood.com Editorial Staff)
- Access Hollywood
We got to meet some of the top performers for season 11 of 'American Idol' Feb. 22, but will Adam Brock make the cut? Following last week's Las Vegas auditions, Jennifer Lopez, Stephen Tyler and Randy Jackson got down to business and dropped more than half of the nearly 50 singers on the Feb. 22 episode of American Idol. Sitting surrounded by a pond of blue lit water, the judges broke the news to the anxious contestants, sending 14 to the top 24. Here's who made it: • Jen Hirsh • Creighton Fraker • Joshua Ledet • Haley Johnson • Elise Testone • Reed Grimm • Erika Van Pelt • Chelsea Sorrell • Baylie Brown • Heejun Han • Jessica Sanchez • Phil Phillips • Colton Dixon • Brielle Von Hugel Here's who was cut: Lauren Gray, Blaire Sieber, Naomi Gilles, Neco Starr, Clayton Farhat, River St. James, Caleb Johnson and Richie Law What did you think of the judges' decisions? Were you happy with who made it?...
- 2/23/2012
- by Kirstin Benson
- HollywoodLife
Another week, another wholly unnecessary, post-audition audition episode of "American Idol," because the judges are apparently unqualified to accurately measure talent until they've heard a contestant sing at least eight times in four different venues. Everything that was revealed in this episode could've been covered in a five minute montage, but the producers have a two-hour timeslot and they're determined to make you sit through every monotonous minute, gosh darn it!
Since I am not nearly as sadistic as the creators of "American Idol," all you really need to know is included in the handy list of survivors and lucky escapees below. I suggest you save your DVR space and just drop in for the last five minutes of the Feb. 23 episode, when the show will roll out its annual "Ridiculous Dancing Montage" that will remind you of the Top 24 in one manageable, filler-free chunk.
The first 14 contestants to make...
Since I am not nearly as sadistic as the creators of "American Idol," all you really need to know is included in the handy list of survivors and lucky escapees below. I suggest you save your DVR space and just drop in for the last five minutes of the Feb. 23 episode, when the show will roll out its annual "Ridiculous Dancing Montage" that will remind you of the Top 24 in one manageable, filler-free chunk.
The first 14 contestants to make...
- 2/23/2012
- by Laura Prudom
- Aol TV.
The American Idol judges repeatedly said how difficult it was, how this was their hardest day, how much it "sucked" to make the tough decisions. But just imagine how the 42 remaining contestants felt as they waited to hear whether they'd be performing in the live shows next week as part of season 11's top 24. Well, there was good news and bad news. Keep reading to find out the results revealed on Wednesday's episode. While some - like Lauren Gray, Neco Starr and Richie Law - were eliminated from the competition, these 14 lucky singers advanced, leaving 10 spots to fill on Thursday's...
- 2/23/2012
- by Aaron Parsley
- PEOPLE.com
We're paring down the list from the 42 people who made it through Vegas to American Idol's Top 24. Tonight, contestants will make the walk to their final judgment. It's like the Idolgeddon.
Before their final auditions and learning their fate, contestants were treated to Le Reve-The Dream, a Cirque du Soleil show, as both a reprieve from competition and a chance to scope out the stage where they'll sing what may be their swan songs. It's one night off before some of their lives will be drastically changed.
They've chosen their numbers, their instruments, their outfits. The contestants are ready. So are the judges. So are we. Let's get to it.
Jen Hirsh is up first. We got to see about 20 seconds of her final audition. Randy said it was "okay" for her. In her sit-down with the judges, Randy says it's about being the best of the best of the best.
Before their final auditions and learning their fate, contestants were treated to Le Reve-The Dream, a Cirque du Soleil show, as both a reprieve from competition and a chance to scope out the stage where they'll sing what may be their swan songs. It's one night off before some of their lives will be drastically changed.
They've chosen their numbers, their instruments, their outfits. The contestants are ready. So are the judges. So are we. Let's get to it.
Jen Hirsh is up first. We got to see about 20 seconds of her final audition. Randy said it was "okay" for her. In her sit-down with the judges, Randy says it's about being the best of the best of the best.
- 2/23/2012
- by miranda.wicker@gmail.com (Miranda W.)
- TVfanatic
Over the course of two hours tonight, 42 became...14? The fans will start voting for their top-24 favorites on American Idol next week, but the judges have to cut the competition in half first. And who says they have to even do that all at once? One by one, the remaining hopefuls took the long, solitary walk to sit in front of Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler and find out whether the competition gods were smiling on them. The first two kids down the hall, Jen Hirsh and Creighton Fraker, got good news. Did the throaty-voiced Lauren Gray make it three-for-three? Alas, no. The 23-year-old from Arkansas was the first aspiring star to get bad news Wednesday—but she...
- 2/23/2012
- E! Online
Update: Annie’s recap is live.
Oh no! We’ve just witnessed a massive cliffhanger featuring Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez competing in an elaborate pose-off in front of an electric blue pool! Just kidding — the cliffhanger involved emotional new dad Adam Brock, sobbing before the three Fates as they prolonged the announcement of his destiny.
After tonight’s two-hour telecast, I can tell you only 14 of the top 24 moving on in the hopes of becoming America’s Next Top Idol. Spoilers Ahead: The six guys and eight girls definitely singing for your votes next week are…..
The Guys
Creighton...
Oh no! We’ve just witnessed a massive cliffhanger featuring Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez competing in an elaborate pose-off in front of an electric blue pool! Just kidding — the cliffhanger involved emotional new dad Adam Brock, sobbing before the three Fates as they prolonged the announcement of his destiny.
After tonight’s two-hour telecast, I can tell you only 14 of the top 24 moving on in the hopes of becoming America’s Next Top Idol. Spoilers Ahead: The six guys and eight girls definitely singing for your votes next week are…..
The Guys
Creighton...
- 2/23/2012
- by Annie Barrett
- EW.com - PopWatch
"American Idol" kicks off by reminding us (in all caps with very serious music) that next week we all start voting - for the five of us still awake, since it seems like the pre-live shows portion of the show has been longer than ever before.
42 contestants become 24 this week, guys. And it will take two hours tonight and an hour tomorrow. If only they could spice things up, by making each pair facing off duke it out in a thunderdome with paintball guns or a hot dog eating contest or something.
The final 42 get one more performance before they are sent packing, and we sort of get to see them. Jen Hirsh is up first and she's on a platform in the middle of swirling water with a psychedelic backdrop that may be the scenery for the Vegas show playing there, but it looks like a photoshoot locale for "America's Next Top Model.
42 contestants become 24 this week, guys. And it will take two hours tonight and an hour tomorrow. If only they could spice things up, by making each pair facing off duke it out in a thunderdome with paintball guns or a hot dog eating contest or something.
The final 42 get one more performance before they are sent packing, and we sort of get to see them. Jen Hirsh is up first and she's on a platform in the middle of swirling water with a psychedelic backdrop that may be the scenery for the Vegas show playing there, but it looks like a photoshoot locale for "America's Next Top Model.
- 2/23/2012
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
It's going to get ugly. After cutting - and cutting again - in Las Vegas, American Idol is down to 42 contestants. And on Wednesday's episode, they're all hoping for one of the 24 spots in the upcoming live shows. At this point in the competition, talented singers will be sent home heartbroken before they ever have a chance to take the Idol stage. So the question is ... for whom are you rooting? We've seen some outstanding performances and heard some heartbreaking stories so far. Reed Grimm, Elise Testone, Haley Johnsen and Eben Franckewitz all sailed through the Vegas group round with...
- 2/22/2012
- PEOPLE.com
Heejun Han was among the contestants who will move on to the live episodes; 10 more will be announced Thursday.
By Adam Graham
Reed Grimm celebrates on "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
Rest easy, America. Heejun Han made it through.
Han, the biggest personality to emerge on "American Idol" so far this season, was revealed on Wednesday's (February 22) episode as one of the 24 seminfinalists who will make it through to the live episodes, which begin next week. From a final pool of 42, 14 semifinalists were unveiled during Wednesday's episode; the final 10 will be made public during Thursday's one-hour episode.
Joining Han — producers cued "Hey Jude," which almost sounds like "Heejun," when he made it through — on the guys' side are the incredibly named Phillip Phillips; tiny soul man Creighton Fraker; former family band singer Reed Grimm; gospel-voiced Joshua Ledet; and the mohawk-mulleted Colton Dixon. Representing for the ladies are Erika Van Pelt, Jen Hirsh,...
By Adam Graham
Reed Grimm celebrates on "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
Rest easy, America. Heejun Han made it through.
Han, the biggest personality to emerge on "American Idol" so far this season, was revealed on Wednesday's (February 22) episode as one of the 24 seminfinalists who will make it through to the live episodes, which begin next week. From a final pool of 42, 14 semifinalists were unveiled during Wednesday's episode; the final 10 will be made public during Thursday's one-hour episode.
Joining Han — producers cued "Hey Jude," which almost sounds like "Heejun," when he made it through — on the guys' side are the incredibly named Phillip Phillips; tiny soul man Creighton Fraker; former family band singer Reed Grimm; gospel-voiced Joshua Ledet; and the mohawk-mulleted Colton Dixon. Representing for the ladies are Erika Van Pelt, Jen Hirsh,...
- 2/22/2012
- MTV Music News
The remaining seventy contestants of American Idol were up for a challenge this week, being put into groups of three and four, singing music from the 50s or 60s. The Idol hopefuls took over the stage in Cirque du Soleil’s Viva Elvis Theatre at Aria Resort & Casino in Las Vegas and gave the performance of their lives. Finally, Idol delivered two hours of nonstop musical entertainment.
Cari Quoyser, Chase Likens, Skylar Laine, and Colton Dixon brought such a sweetness to the stage and opened the night with great satisfaction. This era fits Quoyser perfectly, don’t you think? The judges did not think that this performance was her best though and unfortunately, she was cut. What a disappointment. Laine was the one worrying about hitting her notes and not ruining the sound of the group with her distinct country sound… but she wasn’t the one the judges were concerned about.
Cari Quoyser, Chase Likens, Skylar Laine, and Colton Dixon brought such a sweetness to the stage and opened the night with great satisfaction. This era fits Quoyser perfectly, don’t you think? The judges did not think that this performance was her best though and unfortunately, she was cut. What a disappointment. Laine was the one worrying about hitting her notes and not ruining the sound of the group with her distinct country sound… but she wasn’t the one the judges were concerned about.
- 2/17/2012
- by Melody Simpson
- BuzzFocus.com
Thursday night's cruel, two-hour episode of "American Idol" continued to prolong the agony challenge the contestants, shuttling the Hollywood Week survivors off to Las Vegas for another round of group numbers. Thankfully, all the outbreak monkeys who were contaminating the other contestants in Los Angeles had obviously been culled from the herd by the time they reached Vegas, so disease and dehydration weren't running rampant through the halls any longer. That's not to say that everyone had miraculously learned how to stay in key following their ordeal in Hollywood -- there were still plenty of mediocre performances in store.
I'm mostly just baffled that the "Idol" producers got away with stretching out the drama this long; we saw solo cuts, group cuts and another round of solo cuts in Hollywood, followed by Day 1 group cuts, Day 2 group cuts, and another round of Day 1 group cuts in Thursday's episode. Were the...
I'm mostly just baffled that the "Idol" producers got away with stretching out the drama this long; we saw solo cuts, group cuts and another round of solo cuts in Hollywood, followed by Day 1 group cuts, Day 2 group cuts, and another round of Day 1 group cuts in Thursday's episode. Were the...
- 2/17/2012
- by Laura Prudom
- Aol TV.
And they may look familiar! We remember silly vanilli Deandre Brackensick, 17, from last season of American Idol. The judges brutally cut him on the Green Mile after Hollywood Week, but not before we were treated to plenty of loving zoom-ins on his exquisite face and hair. In a way, all of us had won. Except Deandre.
Jessica Sanchez, 16, appeared on the first season of America’s Got Talent when she was just 11. These crazy kids!
They can both still wail even in their old age. The hair pair sang “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” with Candice Glover on tonight’s Las Vegas show.
Jessica Sanchez, 16, appeared on the first season of America’s Got Talent when she was just 11. These crazy kids!
They can both still wail even in their old age. The hair pair sang “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” with Candice Glover on tonight’s Las Vegas show.
- 2/17/2012
- by Annie Barrett
- EW.com - PopWatch
Last night, we saw American Idol hopefuls sing in groups and by themselves and then learn their respective fates in those garish, chairless rooms.
Over the next two hours, the 69 remaining contestants will travel to Las Vegas to perform on the Viva Elvis stage in their last bid to make it to the Top 40. What happens in Vegas tonight isn't staying in Vegas. Some contestants will return to La while some will be going home.
Ryan's voiceover promises that tonight will be full of drama and surprises. I mean, it is Vegas after all, and anything can happen.
Prior to leaving La, contestants formed groups of 3 to 4 for their Vegas performances and were assigned a song from the 50s or 60s. Upon arriving in Las Vegas, they immediately got to work rehearsing with one of the American Idol vocal coaches. All contestants will face the possibility of elimination immediately upon the end of their performance.
Over the next two hours, the 69 remaining contestants will travel to Las Vegas to perform on the Viva Elvis stage in their last bid to make it to the Top 40. What happens in Vegas tonight isn't staying in Vegas. Some contestants will return to La while some will be going home.
Ryan's voiceover promises that tonight will be full of drama and surprises. I mean, it is Vegas after all, and anything can happen.
Prior to leaving La, contestants formed groups of 3 to 4 for their Vegas performances and were assigned a song from the 50s or 60s. Upon arriving in Las Vegas, they immediately got to work rehearsing with one of the American Idol vocal coaches. All contestants will face the possibility of elimination immediately upon the end of their performance.
- 2/17/2012
- by miranda.wicker@gmail.com (Miranda W.)
- TVfanatic
As Hollywood Week drags on for what seems like its fifth week, the "American Idol" hopefuls are put through another group performance. Except they get more time and professional-looking costumes and lighting, so it's not quite as fun as the crazy Group Night.
We kick things off on the bus that hauls the Idols to Las Vegas, for reasons kind of passing understanding. Why move venues? Why not keep them in the same building they've been living in for all of Hollywood Week and just completely Stockholm Syndrome them?
The judges tell the 70 kids left that they are going to sing music from the 1950s1960s, which will definitely prepare them for on the live shows when they get criticized for being current or not knowing who they are as an artist. *eye roll*
Now, I'm criticizing music from this era. I love the 50s/60s. Love. But ... c'mon. We all know how "Idol" is.
We kick things off on the bus that hauls the Idols to Las Vegas, for reasons kind of passing understanding. Why move venues? Why not keep them in the same building they've been living in for all of Hollywood Week and just completely Stockholm Syndrome them?
The judges tell the 70 kids left that they are going to sing music from the 1950s1960s, which will definitely prepare them for on the live shows when they get criticized for being current or not knowing who they are as an artist. *eye roll*
Now, I'm criticizing music from this era. I love the 50s/60s. Love. But ... c'mon. We all know how "Idol" is.
- 2/17/2012
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Fox
With 70 contestants still standing, “American Idol” kicked it old school in Las Vegas with songs from the 50s and 60s. Singers performed in groups of three and four and each team was styled and costumed for the first time. And unlike pretty much every episode so far this season, nobody fainted, fell off the stage, or got rushed to the hospital. But there was drama, and there were, of course tears.
That’s because what happens in Vegas doesn’t stay…...
With 70 contestants still standing, “American Idol” kicked it old school in Las Vegas with songs from the 50s and 60s. Singers performed in groups of three and four and each team was styled and costumed for the first time. And unlike pretty much every episode so far this season, nobody fainted, fell off the stage, or got rushed to the hospital. But there was drama, and there were, of course tears.
That’s because what happens in Vegas doesn’t stay…...
- 2/17/2012
- by Stephanie Krikorian
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
Pity poor Jennifer Lopez. American Idol‘s Season 11 Hollywood Week proved so grueling for the Gigli star that she was forced to abandon her standard-operating spangled culottes and midriff-baring blouse and don a fluffy gray bathrobe for the annual “Holding Rooms of Doom” portion of the competition. Was J.Lo feverish, the latest victim of human petri dish Amy “Tent Dweller” Brumfield? Did she swaddle herself in cushy fabric to soothe her aching joints from the full-scale assault of hollering and caterwauling that occurred during Hollywood’s final solo round? Or was she simply trying to prepare us all for...
- 2/16/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Wednesday night’s installment of American Idol — focusing on Day 1 of Season 11 Hollywood Week — ended with a horrifying cliffhanger: Lovely and poised 16-year-old Symone Black falling off the stage and hitting the auditoruim floor in a horrific heap. But fret not, Idoloonies, I’ve got the transcript — made up entirely in my brain — of what happened next:
Jennifer
My shoes! My shoes! I think that girl splattered a drop of blood or something on my $12,500 shoes!
Randy
Yeah, yeah, yeah! Hollywood Week, baby! Season 11 is On!
Nigel
Who got the shot? Camera guys, did any of you get the shot?...
Jennifer
My shoes! My shoes! I think that girl splattered a drop of blood or something on my $12,500 shoes!
Randy
Yeah, yeah, yeah! Hollywood Week, baby! Season 11 is On!
Nigel
Who got the shot? Camera guys, did any of you get the shot?...
- 2/9/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Amy Brumfield spreads a nasty bug, while Richie Law, Brielle Von Hugel and Brianna-Marie Bell fight for the title of Drama Queen.
By Adam Graham
Group auditions begin on "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
Group Night Drama took hold of "American Idol" on Thursday (February 9). The whole episode, in fact, zeroed in on the Drama — the infighting, the personality clashes, the late-night bleary eyes — and didn't make any time for actual, you know, singing.
Luckily, there were enough distractions to keep things interesting. A mean sick bug seemed to be going around with the contestants, and Patient Zero was Amy Brumfield, whom you remember as Tent Girl, or the girl who lives in a tent in the woods in Tennessee. Brumfield was down and out for most of the episode, battling flu-like symptoms, while those she came in contact with were also given a mean case of the pukes. Lesson:...
By Adam Graham
Group auditions begin on "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
Group Night Drama took hold of "American Idol" on Thursday (February 9). The whole episode, in fact, zeroed in on the Drama — the infighting, the personality clashes, the late-night bleary eyes — and didn't make any time for actual, you know, singing.
Luckily, there were enough distractions to keep things interesting. A mean sick bug seemed to be going around with the contestants, and Patient Zero was Amy Brumfield, whom you remember as Tent Girl, or the girl who lives in a tent in the woods in Tennessee. Brumfield was down and out for most of the episode, battling flu-like symptoms, while those she came in contact with were also given a mean case of the pukes. Lesson:...
- 2/9/2012
- MTV Music News
At last, after wandering for weeks in the desolate wasteland known as "American Idol's" audition rounds, we have emerged into the deafening, hyperbole-ridden circus known as "Hollywood Week." This is not actually an improvement, because it seems as though we're actually hearing less singing now than we did in previous installments, which makes it somewhat difficult to judge the singers. Since we're lucky to hear 20 seconds of actual vocal demonstration from any of the hopefuls, my previous method of choosing the episode's five most memorable moments has been rendered obsolete. Thus, I'll be doing a straight rundown of the episode's highlights during this section of the competition.
In this week's episodes, we'll see 309 golden ticket holders summarily whittled down to a more manageable number, before the contestants are shoehorned into groups for next week's mass slaughter further elimination process. There will be tears, there will be tantrums, and there...
In this week's episodes, we'll see 309 golden ticket holders summarily whittled down to a more manageable number, before the contestants are shoehorned into groups for next week's mass slaughter further elimination process. There will be tears, there will be tantrums, and there...
- 2/9/2012
- by Laura Prudom
- Aol TV.
It’s a terrible headline and a terrible request for the use of your time. But if you’re as frustrated as I just was after Fox teased the heck out of one contestant’s impressive Hollywood Week stage-to-floor story arc — only to let our DVR recordings get brutally cut off by a bump for new series Mobbed — you can watch 16-year-old Symone Black fall off the stage here.
Don’t expect to find out whether she lives or dies! You’ll just have to tune in tomorrow.
I’m such a deeply loathsome creature right now, and yet I’m only trying to help.
Don’t expect to find out whether she lives or dies! You’ll just have to tune in tomorrow.
I’m such a deeply loathsome creature right now, and yet I’m only trying to help.
- 2/9/2012
- by Annie Barrett
- EW.com - PopWatch
If the first 60 seconds of this week's American Idol were any indicator, we're in for one Hell of a ride during Hollywood week. Let's get to it, shall we?
To encourage the contestants, or at least entertain them, Steven Tyler gave a rousing speech borrowed from none other than the Cowardly Lion about what they would need to get up on that stage and sing... with courage. And with that hair and those jowls, Steven could probably play the Cowardly Lion if there were a modern remake. I mean, I could buy that he's a lion (or tiger, or bear, oh my!) of some sorts. Or was. Or thinks he still is.
Ryan reminded us that half of the hopefuls will be going home during Round One of Hollywood week and gave us the breakdown for how this round works. Contestants will be placed in groups of ten and each...
To encourage the contestants, or at least entertain them, Steven Tyler gave a rousing speech borrowed from none other than the Cowardly Lion about what they would need to get up on that stage and sing... with courage. And with that hair and those jowls, Steven could probably play the Cowardly Lion if there were a modern remake. I mean, I could buy that he's a lion (or tiger, or bear, oh my!) of some sorts. Or was. Or thinks he still is.
Ryan reminded us that half of the hopefuls will be going home during Round One of Hollywood week and gave us the breakdown for how this round works. Contestants will be placed in groups of ten and each...
- 2/9/2012
- by miranda.wicker@gmail.com (Miranda W.)
- TVfanatic
It’s Hollywood week on American Idol, the week where some of the contestants who blew the judges away during auditions fell under pressure and others continued to shine. Of the 309 contestants brought to Hollywood, only half of them continued on. Needless to say, the pressure was on. Nerves were higher than ever. It was equally satisfying as it was disappointing to see just who made it through round one of Hollywood week. As host, Ryan Seacrest put it, “only the strong will survive.”
“Listen, none of you should have to be on that stage and beg.” – Randy Jackson
Solo performances on the Hollywood stage proved to be a piece of cake for some singers while others miserably failed to captivate the judges a second time. The latter was almost too difficult to watch. Thankfully, judge, Jennifer Lopez was still in love with Johnny Keyser and Heejun Jan as both...
“Listen, none of you should have to be on that stage and beg.” – Randy Jackson
Solo performances on the Hollywood stage proved to be a piece of cake for some singers while others miserably failed to captivate the judges a second time. The latter was almost too difficult to watch. Thankfully, judge, Jennifer Lopez was still in love with Johnny Keyser and Heejun Jan as both...
- 2/9/2012
- by Melody Simpson
- BuzzFocus.com
Fox
It was time to cash in that golden ticket as contestants in pursuit of becoming the next “American Idol” kicked off Hollywood Week. Tonight, was not for the faint of heart. There were 309 singers who got the greenlight during auditions, but half of them will go home after tonight’s showing.
So they took the stage, ten at a time, each getting a chance to sing alone. Feedback didn’t come from Randy, JLo or Steven until all ten...
It was time to cash in that golden ticket as contestants in pursuit of becoming the next “American Idol” kicked off Hollywood Week. Tonight, was not for the faint of heart. There were 309 singers who got the greenlight during auditions, but half of them will go home after tonight’s showing.
So they took the stage, ten at a time, each getting a chance to sing alone. Feedback didn’t come from Randy, JLo or Steven until all ten...
- 2/9/2012
- by Stephanie Krikorian
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
They came, they sang, some conquered and starting tonight we'll finally move past the audition round freakshow (which was, admittedly, less awful than in year's past) and into Hollywood Week, which only showcases the best contestants American Idol has to offer.
Adam Levine: Shame on Randy Jackson!
But with hundreds of singers taking the stage in Los Angeles, there are bound to be some broken hearts, plenty of shattered dreams and more disappointing group performances than I care to watch.
Although this batch of episodes historically serves up at least one or two amazing musical moments -- lest you forget Andrew Garcia's reworking of Straight Up from season nine!
In an attempt to predict which singers might produce similar game changing moments, lets look back at the 20 Golden Ticket getters we're most looking forward to hearing more from!
Johnny Keyser
Aubree Dieckmeyer
Ramiro Garcia
Shannon Magrane
David Leathers Jr.
Lauren Gray
Phillip...
Adam Levine: Shame on Randy Jackson!
But with hundreds of singers taking the stage in Los Angeles, there are bound to be some broken hearts, plenty of shattered dreams and more disappointing group performances than I care to watch.
Although this batch of episodes historically serves up at least one or two amazing musical moments -- lest you forget Andrew Garcia's reworking of Straight Up from season nine!
In an attempt to predict which singers might produce similar game changing moments, lets look back at the 20 Golden Ticket getters we're most looking forward to hearing more from!
Johnny Keyser
Aubree Dieckmeyer
Ramiro Garcia
Shannon Magrane
David Leathers Jr.
Lauren Gray
Phillip...
- 2/8/2012
- TheInsider.com
Jane Carrey and Ramiro Garcia were among the 68 contestants sent home at the end of day one.
By Adam Graham
Jennifer Lopez in "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
When it comes to "American Idol," everyone wants to go to Hollywood. But the euphoria from that Golden Ticket doesn't last long for contestants, as the slash-and-burn process of the notoriously cutthroat Hollywood Week takes hold.
This year, 309 contestants made it through to Hollywood, and the whittling-down process started immediately. Wednesday's (February 8) "Idol" focused on the beginning of Hollywood Week, when 68 contestants were shown the door by the end of day one.
Among those going home was Jane Carrey, daughter of actor Jim Carrey, who failed to make much of an impression with her timid take on Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Lookin' Out My Back Door." Because of her family ties, Carrey was one of the most noteworthy contestants from the audition episodes,...
By Adam Graham
Jennifer Lopez in "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
When it comes to "American Idol," everyone wants to go to Hollywood. But the euphoria from that Golden Ticket doesn't last long for contestants, as the slash-and-burn process of the notoriously cutthroat Hollywood Week takes hold.
This year, 309 contestants made it through to Hollywood, and the whittling-down process started immediately. Wednesday's (February 8) "Idol" focused on the beginning of Hollywood Week, when 68 contestants were shown the door by the end of day one.
Among those going home was Jane Carrey, daughter of actor Jim Carrey, who failed to make much of an impression with her timid take on Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Lookin' Out My Back Door." Because of her family ties, Carrey was one of the most noteworthy contestants from the audition episodes,...
- 2/8/2012
- MTV Music News
Arguably the most successful American Idol, Carrie Underwood was found at auditions in St. Louis, Missouri. So the judges had high expectations for those auditioning in the same city as the country music sensation once did. The episode began with a well deserved homage to Underwood before the auditions began and did not disappoint as auditions began. It just might be possible that we have seen our next American Idol after these auditions.
22 year old Johnny Keyser hit the perfect key with his incredibly soulful rendition of “Change is Coming” The judges loved him and it is definitely safe to say that America loves him. As judge, Jennifer Lopez pointed out, he is going to be a star. Keyser is good looking and has a voice that can sooth for days. He seems to have everything that we could want in an American Idol and Hollywood week will only prove it.
22 year old Johnny Keyser hit the perfect key with his incredibly soulful rendition of “Change is Coming” The judges loved him and it is definitely safe to say that America loves him. As judge, Jennifer Lopez pointed out, he is going to be a star. Keyser is good looking and has a voice that can sooth for days. He seems to have everything that we could want in an American Idol and Hollywood week will only prove it.
- 2/3/2012
- by Melody Simpson
- BuzzFocus.com
It’s fitting that American Idol chose Walter the Angry Taxi Driver as the mascot for its St. Louis audition episode — the seventh and final tryout telecast before Hollywood Week kicks off next Wednesday. Indeed, it was hard to stop myself from griping and kvetching over the course of an hour that managed to show us only five of the city’s 46 Golden Ticket recpients — and yet still found time to give us a flashback to Statue of Liberty Guy, my pick for the all-time lamest, most egregious offender in the show’s “Anything to Be on TV Hall of Shame.
- 2/3/2012
- by Michael Slezak
- TVLine.com
Thursday's American Idol started out with footage of a young Carrie Underwood on a road trip from Checotah, Okla., to audition for the show in St. Louis. "Now a new crop of talent will take that same trip, hoping to create the magic all over again," Ryan Seacrest said. "Can they do it?" Lauren Gray of Arkansas certainly has a chance. "It would mean the world me to go to Hollywood," the self-described "daddy's girl" said. "It's been a dream of mine, always. But also my father's dream, as well." "You're one of the best female voices we've heard," Jennifer Lopez...
- 2/3/2012
- by Aaron Parsley
- PEOPLE.com
American Idol judge Jennifer Lopez said hopeful Lauren Gray had "one of the best female voices" the panel had heard during auditions for season 11. The 22-year-old waitress and musician's audition performance of 'One and Only' by Adele was shown on Thursday night's (February 2) episode of American Idol, which showed highlights from the judges' visit to St Louis. Lopez - who was seen dabbing at a tear following the performance - said: "You are one of the best female voices we have heard and I say absolutely, 100% yes." Steven Tyler said: "I love the way you break and you go there and are fearless about it. That's really important because when people sing and you deliver a chorus line and can break like that - get up there, hit the note and break - it's (more)...
- 2/3/2012
- by By Lara Martin
- Digital Spy
We've reached the end of "American Idol's" long and winding audition tour, making a final stop in St. Louis before the show heads back to Hollywood next week. Much was made of the fact that one of "Idol's" biggest success stories, Carrie Underwood, was discovered in St. Louis eight years ago -- and compared to some of the contestants we've seen on our journey so far, perhaps the producers really were saving the best for last.
I haven't been overly impressed with many of the auditionees this season, but the singers in St. Louis were generally cute, commercial and easy to listen to. If there's a winner hidden among the competitors we've seen on screen to date, Missouri might be the state to beat. The judges were certainly enthusiastic, with a few of the hopefuls earning a "wow" within 10 seconds of them opening their mouths to sing. And...
I haven't been overly impressed with many of the auditionees this season, but the singers in St. Louis were generally cute, commercial and easy to listen to. If there's a winner hidden among the competitors we've seen on screen to date, Missouri might be the state to beat. The judges were certainly enthusiastic, with a few of the hopefuls earning a "wow" within 10 seconds of them opening their mouths to sing. And...
- 2/3/2012
- by Laura Prudom
- Aol TV.
Okay, maybe not, but at least that’s the lasting impression American Idol wanted us to have after Thursday’s St. Louis auditions. The episode was framed as a Carrie Underwood tribute (the Oklahoma native had auditioned there), so naturally the final contestant of the night was a friendly down-home gal with a killer voice.
“Eight years ago Carrie Underwood launched her career in St. Louis,” boomed Seacrest. “Maybe this is the start for Lauren Gray.”
Jennifer Lopez said the 22-year-old Arkansas singer had “one of the best female voices we’ve heard.” Was it? I thought Lauren’s rendition...
“Eight years ago Carrie Underwood launched her career in St. Louis,” boomed Seacrest. “Maybe this is the start for Lauren Gray.”
Jennifer Lopez said the 22-year-old Arkansas singer had “one of the best female voices we’ve heard.” Was it? I thought Lauren’s rendition...
- 2/3/2012
- by Annie Barrett
- EW.com - PopWatch
[flv custom_thumbnail="http://youtu.be/lOUHQ5Q6GXg1328240194258" width="600" height="450"]http://youtu.be/lOUHQ5Q6GXg/flv] The final season 11 auditions brought out amazing talent and the judges were blown away by Lauren Gray, were You? The judges thought Lauren Gray had one of the best female voices they'd heard so far in American Idol season 11 and definitely in St. Louis, which was the last town of auditions before Hollywood week. Lauren, 22, sings with her dad in a band and helps out with the family wedding planning business in Arkansas. Although we thought she had a cute story and a pretty good voice, her rendition of Adele's "One and Only" was a little screechy for us. Do You think Lauren will make it past Hollywood week? More ‘American Idol’ News Ryan Seacrest Being Replaced By Neil Patrick Harris On ‘American Idol’? Will Ryan Seacrest Be Fired From ‘American Idol?’ Scotty McCreery Is Youngest Guy To Ever Debut At The Top Of The All-Genre Charts With His First Album!
- 2/3/2012
- by Kirstin Benson
- HollywoodLife
Lauren Gray hit the "American Idol" auditions as a country cutie from Arkansas. We just love it that her family runs a catch-all wedding shop/service place in their small town of Hardy, that's wonderful. She and her dad even play receptions.
She sang Adele's "One and Only" and the judges were blown away. Jennifer Lopez said she's "one of the best female voices we've heard." And Steven Tyler said, "I think I love the way you break. I love the way you go up there and you're fearless about it. "
We liked her, but we didn't love her. She was a little shout-y at times, but we hope to see more of her in Hollywood, she seems like a cool girl. What did you think, "Idol" fans?...
She sang Adele's "One and Only" and the judges were blown away. Jennifer Lopez said she's "one of the best female voices we've heard." And Steven Tyler said, "I think I love the way you break. I love the way you go up there and you're fearless about it. "
We liked her, but we didn't love her. She was a little shout-y at times, but we hope to see more of her in Hollywood, she seems like a cool girl. What did you think, "Idol" fans?...
- 2/3/2012
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Walter the Taxi Driver is quite unhappy with the number of people who showed up to St. Louis to audition for American Idol because of all the congestion they've caused on his streets. I'm guessing his crankiness has something to do with the fact that he didn't get to drive J.Lo around. Or maybe he's just bothered by the fact that he doesn't get to listen to all these talented people sing.
And y'all, there was some talent in St. Louis.
The first contestant up was Johnny Keyser (pictured). He's currently a server in an Italian restaurant, but J.Lo says he's going to be a star. And he is. After his performance, he's on my "One to Watch" list. It was an easy Golden Ticket for the golden boy from Pompano Beach, Fl.
This seems like the season of don't let your (ex) husband hold you back. Rachelle...
And y'all, there was some talent in St. Louis.
The first contestant up was Johnny Keyser (pictured). He's currently a server in an Italian restaurant, but J.Lo says he's going to be a star. And he is. After his performance, he's on my "One to Watch" list. It was an easy Golden Ticket for the golden boy from Pompano Beach, Fl.
This seems like the season of don't let your (ex) husband hold you back. Rachelle...
- 2/3/2012
- by miranda.wicker@gmail.com (Miranda W.)
- TVfanatic
Michael Becker / Fox “American Idol”: From left, Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez, Randy Jackson and Ryan Seacrest.
As a reminder of all that is “American Idol,” a flashback of sorts to the day, eight years ago, when Carrie Underwood took the trip to St. Louis to audition. It was St. Louis again tonight, though it’s difficult to say if a repeat Idol was born.
If anyone comes close, it might just be a waiter from Florida. Sam Cooke’s...
As a reminder of all that is “American Idol,” a flashback of sorts to the day, eight years ago, when Carrie Underwood took the trip to St. Louis to audition. It was St. Louis again tonight, though it’s difficult to say if a repeat Idol was born.
If anyone comes close, it might just be a waiter from Florida. Sam Cooke’s...
- 2/3/2012
- by Stephanie Krikorian
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
After last night's stop in Portland, American Idol heads to St Louis, Missouri tonight, hoping that the Midwestern city will offer up some serious talent. With judges Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson keen to find the next big singing talent, will St Louis live up to their expectations? Stick with Digital Spy from 8/7c to find out!
> Madonna's new video 'Give Me All Your Luvin'' preview clip airs on American Idol
20:58Well, that's it for this week! Join us next Wednesday as American Idol continues its search for a star. 20:56Well, there's one voice left to hear in St Louis, and it's Lauren Gray's. She's part of her family's one-stop wedding shop business, and is also part of a southern rock band with her dad on the weekends. She's here to perform 'One and Only' (more)...
> Madonna's new video 'Give Me All Your Luvin'' preview clip airs on American Idol
20:58Well, that's it for this week! Join us next Wednesday as American Idol continues its search for a star. 20:56Well, there's one voice left to hear in St Louis, and it's Lauren Gray's. She's part of her family's one-stop wedding shop business, and is also part of a southern rock band with her dad on the weekends. She's here to perform 'One and Only' (more)...
- 2/3/2012
- by By Jennifer Still
- Digital Spy
Reis Kloeckner, Ethan Jones and Rachelle Lamb also fly through to Hollywood.
By Adam Graham
Steven Tyler on "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
In popular music, St. Louis might be known as the home of Chuck Berry or Nelly, but in the world of "American Idol," it's the city that hosted Carrie Underwood's audition.
"Idol" returned to the Gateway to the West on Thursday (February 2), hoping to find the show's next megastar. And they got off on the right foot with contestant Johnny Keyser, 22, from Pompano Beach, Florida, who blew the judges away with his rendition of Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come." "Should we just vote now?" Steven Tyler asked only a few bars into the song. Keyser was quickly sped through to Hollywood and set a good tone for St. Louis.
As did Lauren Gray, who works at her family's one-stop wedding shop and sings in...
By Adam Graham
Steven Tyler on "American Idol"
Photo: Fox
In popular music, St. Louis might be known as the home of Chuck Berry or Nelly, but in the world of "American Idol," it's the city that hosted Carrie Underwood's audition.
"Idol" returned to the Gateway to the West on Thursday (February 2), hoping to find the show's next megastar. And they got off on the right foot with contestant Johnny Keyser, 22, from Pompano Beach, Florida, who blew the judges away with his rendition of Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come." "Should we just vote now?" Steven Tyler asked only a few bars into the song. Keyser was quickly sped through to Hollywood and set a good tone for St. Louis.
As did Lauren Gray, who works at her family's one-stop wedding shop and sings in...
- 2/2/2012
- MTV Music News
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