May 14, 2008

There is more gossip surrounding David Archuleta's father, Jeff. He was banned from backstage rehearsals this week, but he did show up to last night's show. It wasn't exactly a calm night. The show's Executive Producer, Nigel Lythgoe, seemed excited during David Cook's performance. That apparently angered Archuleta's father who stared at Nigel during the performance. Jeff did have some interaction with the judges. He hugged Paula twice and said something in her ear. Paula nodded in agreement. Jeff steered clear of Simon all night long. Speaking of Simon.. he now says that David Cook is his pick to win the entire competition. Simon thinks Cook has taken more risks and done more than any other contestant in the past weeks of the competition. So who do you think will end up in the finale? Who will win the entire competition?

Candace


May 8, 2008

And then there were three! Jason finally got the boot last night. Most contestants are emotional when the news is revealed, but Jason was grinning from ear to ear. It seemed as if he knew he was going to get eliminated. A celebrity gossip website is reporting that it looks like Jason might have said "Don't Vote" when Ryan was reading the numbers for people to vote for him during the performance night. The website slowed down that part of the episode for a closer view. Take a look at www. tmz.com and let me know what you think.

So now we are left with Syesha, David Cook and David Archuleta. I think the votes from Jason's younger fan base will now go to David Archuleta. And it seems they are loyal to their favorite singers... look how long Jason's stayed in the competition! Who do you think will be in the finale and who do you think will win it all?

Let me know!
Candace


May 7, 2008

We are down to the final four and at this point no singer is safe. However, I really think the Idol journey needs to end for Jason Castro. He just has not been performing for the past few weeks now. Last night, he sang Bob Marley's "I Shot the Sheriff" and Bob Dylan's "Mr. Tambourine Man". I don't understand why he would pick those songs because the judges keep advising him to reach out of his comfort zone... Jason seems to ignore their comments. There was no excuse for his poor selection... the singers could pick from a list of 500 songs from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for last night's show. After the second round of performances, Simon told Jason to start packing his bags. I agree with the comment. However, Jason's young fan base might feel bad that Simon was so harsh and in turn, they might try to "stick up" for Jason and vote for him. Do you agree? Who do you think should be sent packing? Also, I've heard rumors that Maroon 5 is performing during tonight's results episode... Don't forget to tune in!

Candace

April 30, 2008

The question of the day is what in the world happened with Paula last night? Here's a recap of what actually aired during the show. Each of the 5 contestants sang one Neil Diamond song. After the group finished, Ryan asked the judges for a few quick comments about each contestant's performance. Randy went through his review and then it was Paula's turn to speak. Paula critiqued Jason's first performance and then said "The second song, I felt like your usual charm wasn't - it was missing for me. It kind of left me a little empty." BUT Jason only sang one song at that point!!! Everybody stared at Paula with blank faces and then the crowd started laughing. Randy eased the tension by telling Paula the judges were only commenting on the first song. After the show, Paula told Entertainment Tonight she was confused because the producers came to the judges at the last minute and informed them of the new judging format. Paula was confused about the process. After her mishap, she said she was trying to give her review for Jason Castro, scribbled Jason's name and it was David Cook. I definitely do not think this is what happened. She would not have told David Cook he was not fighting hard enough to be in the top 4. I think Paula was commenting on what she saw from a dress rehearsal and gave her comments too early in the actual show. What a mess! What do you think happened? I can't wait to hear what you have to say about the mishap!
As for who is going home... I think Jason will be sent packing tonight. He is not going out of his comfort zone on performance night and it seems he isn't even excited to be there. Do you agree? If not, who do you think is going home?

Candace

April 23, 2008

I have to say the singers rose up to the challenge of singing songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber last night. Syesha really left a memorable impression during her performance of "One Rockin' Road Too Many". The theatrical genre is definitely her niche. When I talked to her in Hollywood, she said that she was glad to be a part of American Idol especially since this is so different from her previous days of auditioning for various roles. I seemed like she learned a lot from Andrew Lloyd Webber and she was smart for taking his advice of being animated while performing. She won Simon over--He said that it was her strongest performance and also said it was a little sexy.
I was shocked Brooke White stopped and started again. I think this is one of the biggest mistakes a singer could make on American Idol and unfortunately I do think this will be her week to go home. In addition, it seems Jason Castro is losing momentum. He just isn't wowing us like he did in the beginning of the season. David Cook had another stellar night... I think it is becoming more and more obvious that he is the one to beat. Do you think David Cook could take home the title?
Also, watch tomorrow morning as I interview the Eliminated Contestant Live from Hollywood! Let me know if you have anything you want me to ask the singer.

Candace

Chris from Westminster writes: Comments: There's talent this year! Kristy Lee Cook was really improving, while to me,
Brooke got worse! Her piano performance
seemed shakey and rushed. She doesn't
seem to be little Miss Sunshine either.
David Cook, I like very much, really
talented! Carly went home and she is
very talented. Syesha should not be in
the bottom. What does everyone see in
Jason? His performances are forgetable
to me. He sits down and sings "lullaby"
songs every week and that hair. Yuck.

Kim from Baltimore writes: WOW!! I can't believe Carly went home!!! That was so wrong. It should have been Jason and Brooke in the bottom two. Carly was in the top two for me, personally. REMEMBER TO VOTE EVERYONE!!! I am a huge Idol fan and faithfully vote every week for my favorite. AI is so unpredictable. You just can't assume anyone's safe.

Debbie from Baltimore writes: Unfortunately it's more of a popularity contest then talent or Carly would still be there with both David's and Jason or Brook would have gone home. Hope to hear more from Carly.

Jim from Grasonville writes: Candace, during your interview with Carly, could you please ask her the following question: While Syesha was singing last night at the end of the show, the cameras cut for a brief moment to Ryan and Carly having a deep conversation. I'm curious...what were Ryan and Carly discussing?

April 22, 2008

It is hard to believe we are less than a month away until the Idol Finale! The remaining six will have to take on songs from musical composer Andrew Lloyd Webber tonight. The musical icon will be the third celebrity mentor this season following Dolly Parton and Mariah Carey. Things are definitely not getting any easier for the contestants!
The current Idol titleholder Jordin Sparks will most likely be watching the show from home. She is resting after suffering from a vocal hemorrhage. Jordin had to cancel appearances during her new concert tour with R&B singer Alicia Keys. A rep from Jordin's label says she is expected to make a full recovery. We sure hope she gets better soon...she was scheduled to perform in Baltimore this summer.

Candace

April 11, 2008

I am still in shock over last night's elimination episode. It's bad enough to get voted off American Idol, but Ryan Seacrest essentially delivered the news twice during the show. He started off by saying that Michael had the lowest number of votes. He then made reference to the fact that nobody was booted off during last year's charity week, but this year, Michael would indeed be sent home. I spoke with Michael this morning and he is not upset with Ryan. Michael says that when cameras weren't rolling, Ryan told Michael he couldn't believe he had to send him home. Michael is truly one of the most genuine contestants competing this season. However, I am sure that this is not the last we will hear of him. He has such a bright future ahead. Do you think he should have been eliminated and what do you think about how Ryan handled the situation?

A few people have emailed me with concerns that Maryland residents could not enter the American Idol Songwriter Competition. I made a few calls and got the scoop for you. A FOX Public Relations Executive told me that Maryland residents were not allowed to enter. This restriction is the result of a legal decision made by 19 Entertainment.

On a lighter note, as of last night's episode, "Idol Gives Back" raised just over $60 Million. You can still donate at www.AmericanIdol.com

Candace

Virginia from Towson writes: I have faithfully watched AI since its inception in spite of Ryan Seacrest's inept job at hosting. Particularly annoying is his phony attempts at appearing analytically profound in questioning the judges about their opinions. He topped himself last night. What he did to Michael Johns was really sadistic and has prompted me to stop watching the show. I can see the contestants perform elsewhere without being irritated by this insensitive egomaniac, At least Simon Cowell's blunt criticisms are constructive.

Patti from Baltimore writes: Extremely disappointed with tonight's results! My husband and I thought Michael sang extremely well and has been for many weeks. We are very sad to see him go! His performances are very enjoyable! Many others certainly should have gone home way before him. Very upsetting!



April 9, 2008

Last night's theme was well planned... the singers sang inspirational songs to correspond with this week's charity episode, Idol Gives Back. Kristy Lee Cook definitely redeemed herself... it's been a tough road for her because she's been in the bottom 3 so many times in the past few weeks. She looked great as well! I think Syesha is a great vocalist. However, she keeps taking on orders that are way too tall for her. Last night she sang Fantasia Barrino's "I Believe". I think it was too risky to take on the song that Fantasia sang the night before she claimed the title. David Cook's performance was a bit shocking for me. I was expecting another amazing week from him, but he was just mediocre for me. I did like his ending when he put his hand up to the camera. On his hand were the words, "Give Back". What a thoughtful idea and quirky way to execute it! Did anybody think he looked a bit stressed or sick last night? I certainly did! There are reports that his brother is battling a serious illness and suffered a major set back in recent weeks. As if American Idol isn't enough... now he has that pressure too. I'm sure he won't have any problem making it through to the next round. As for tomorrow night's bottom three... I think it will consist of Syesha, Carly and Brooke.

Don't forget to watch Idol Gives Back tonight! Some of this year's guest stars will include Bono, Brad Pitt, Reese Witherspoon, Miley Cyrus, Mariah Carey, Eli Manning, Peyton Manning, Fergie, Chris Daughtry, Carrie Underwood, Annie Lennox, John Legend and Snoop Dogg. The money raised will benefit six charities including: The Children's Defense Fund, The Global Fund, Make It Right, Malaria No More, Save the Children's U.S. Programs and the Children's Health Fund. The show raised $76 Million last year... the producers want to break that this year. You don't have to be a star to donate...the lines will be open for you tonight starting at 7:30pm!

Candace

April 2, 2008

Last night was not the first time Simon made a comment about the contestants' wardrobes. He also commented about Chikezie's orange suit in the beginning of the season and he later commented on Alaina Whittaker's blue dress the night before she was eliminated. However, if that is the worst thing Simon can say about Carly, then she is in good shape for this competition. I think Carly is by far the best female singer this year.
Switching gears... David Cook was rushed to the hospital last night after dealing with heart palpitations throughout the day. Medics with the show said David's blood pressure was "far too high" and wanted him to get treated, but he did not want to leave until the end of the show. He was later taken to the hospital and was then released after taking medication. Seems like his nerves are in overdrive!
As for the elimination tonight, I think the bottom 3 will include Jason Castro, Ramiele and Kristy Lee Cook. In the end, I think Ramiele will be sent home. Who do you think should be eliminated?

Jim from Grasonville writes: Thanks for the update on DC...it sounds like he will be there tonight. I agree, Ramiele should be exiting stage left tonight. She has yet to be in the lowest-vote-getter group, however she hasn't had a solid performance in a long while. I think the cuteness votes will not carry her this week.

April 1, 2008

The American Idol contestants will be mentored by Dolly Parton tonight. This is Kristy Lee Cook's chance to shine because she will gain knowledge from a true country music legend. She won't have to take any risks because she can pick a country song and we all know that genre bests suits her vocal skills. I think Ramiele and Jason Castro have to prove themselves tonight as well...they need to step outside of their comfort zone and WOW us!
On a different note, make sure to tune in tonight for FOX45 News at 10. We will recap David Cook's journey to becoming the new front man of the competition. Do you think he could win it all at this point? Let me know!

Candace

Jim from Grasonville writes: Both Davids have an excellent chance of winning at this point, but Michael Johns is going to be their strongest competitor. Incidentally, MJ had the best performance this week. And congratulations to Simon - he finally mentioned it...Carly's a great singer, but if she wants to survive through the month of April, she should wear long sleeves. Candace, do you agree with Simon's constructive criticism regarding Carly's wardrobe?

March 26, 2008

I loved last night's theme for the show! I thought it was a great way to get a glimpse of the singers and their lives. Kristy Lee Cook redeemed herself with her rendition of "Proud to Be an American". That song really clenches our hearts as Americans. I was shocked that she didn't wear a more patriotic outfit, but her vocals were fabulous so her talent is what really grabbed my attention. David Cook had another solid performance last night. He is really winning my heart now. I think David Archuleta needed to select a more popular song. Simon was the only judge who recognized it and I don't think Americans could connect with it. Now...for the REAL GOSSIP!! There are reports that Carly Smithson could be pregnant. We will let you know if this is true as soon as we get confirmation. Did you see a baby bump last night? Do you think the reports could be true?

Candace

Jim from Grasonville writes: I agree with you Candace, I now am becoming a David Cook fan - the guy is consistently great from week to week. Michael Johns is still my favorite - he was just brilliant with his Queen rendition. Kristy Lee rebounded with such an uplifting performance, I doubt she will be one of the lowest vote-getters for once. I think that department may be shared by Chikezie, Carly, and Jason. Candace, what did you think of Kristy Lee's performance and song choice? Is she going to survive this week?

Kathy from Pasadena writes: Jason Castro: Looks, sings, and has characteristics of John Travolta

Jim from Grasonville writes: Wow, that pregnancy rumor definitely spread exponentially during the day...they made sure to put it to rest in the early portion of the show. It was great to see Kristy Lee's elation about Lee Greenwood's phone call. I was shocked that Syesha was the penultimate vote-getter. Hey Candace, if possible, take a poll from Jennifer, Patrice, and Steve and ask them if they would be in favor of Carly wearing long sleeves!

March 19, 2008

We heard more of The Beatles on American Idol last night. This was the second week for the theme. I have mixed emotions on this decision. The Beatles are an icon in the music industry and I do think it was a wonderful idea to pay tribute to them and I think they deserve the homage. However, I agree with Simon's comments that it might have been too much of The Beatles. I'm sure it is very difficult for the singers because they are limited in their song selection which is one of the biggest factors in this competition.

As for tonight's results...I think the bottom 3 will include Kristy Lee Cook, Amanda Overmyer and Chikeze. I'm not sure who will go home, but I think it should be Amanda Overmyer. I also think there were a few show stoppers last night. Of course, my favorite David Archuleta was solid. I am really starting to like David Cook as well. I think he is a true performer and that is crucial in this competition. When I met David Cook in Hollywood, he seemed to be a very genuine person who truly is passionate about the music industry. He definitely deserves the success. As for the girls, I think Carly Smithson is the top singer. She can really belt out the notes! We will see what happens tonight at 9pm. Do you agree?

Candace

Jim from Grasonville writes: Wow Candace - great prediction on tonight's elimination! Only 10 remain.

Jane from Oxford writes: Amanda was great fun to watch. She did a fantastic job every Monday night. There were others who should have been eliminated last night before Amanda, and I'm not talking about Ms. Cook. Amanda probably doesn't fill Idol's bill for the tour and so am skeptical about last night's results being purely public opinion. I hope she does well. She possesses charm, talent, and poise. Her professionalism came through in her interviews and I always looked forward to her candid remarks.

M. Warner from Hampstead writes: I think the 2 Davids and Carly and Brokke...top 4


March 18, 2008

The top 11 singers will take the stage tonight. We will once again get to hear some of the greatest hits from The Beatles. David Archuleta needs to be mentally prepared tonight. He botched his lyrics last week in an unusually poor performance. There are reports that David's father is such a stage dad that he drove David to tears during a recording session the day before the episode. His father was reportedly upset with his son's singing and yelled at him. When I met David in Hollywood, I gathered that he's really close with his parents because he is very young and his parents have supported his efforts since he started singing. I could understand how any tension with his father would upset him and affect his performance. I really think this incident brings up the issue of age and how it affects the singers in this highly glamorous competition. If David was older, he might be more confident in himself and not rely on his parents and their opinions. Do you think age matters in this competition? Let me know what you think!

Candace

March 12, 2008

Wow! This season is incredible! The singers are so talented. The Beatles theme was a great idea for last night's show and the songs featured the wide range of talent. It amazes me how the singers can improve so much in a few weeks. Chikeze really picked it up last night. I think he will be safe this week. I never thought Carly was a weak singer, but I think she is getting more comfortable with the stage. That confidence is allowing her talent to shine through in each performance. What do you think?

Candace

Sandy from Rosedale writes: I think your correct, The performance last nite was great, I think this is one of the best seasons yet. Of course I grew up in the beatles years, Big fan and I know every song

Jim from Grasonville writes: I don't think that age is a paramount factor in the competition, considering Taylor Hicks won at age 29 and Jordin Sparks won at age 17. Tonight, the youngest singer (David) shined above the rest. I enjoy your interviews with the contestants each week - they allow the viewers to gain more insight into each singer. I think Kristy Lee will be eliminated this week. She didn't have the solid performance necessary to get her off the bubble. In hindsight, it was a terrible idea to have Beatles songs for a second consecutive week. Many of the singers had weak performances, and this majorly was due to their limitations in song choice. Candace, I'm curious about what you think of their decision for 2 consecutive weeks of Beatles songs?
March 6, 2008

Four more singers will be eliminated tonight! For the guys, I think Luke and Chikeze will be sent home. David Hernandez could be sent packing since his previous job was revealed this week, but I really think he is a talented singer. For the girls, I think Kady Malloy might get cut. I don't think Syesha had her best performance last night and at this point you have to stand out every time you step on the stage. I guess we have to wait and find out who America picks tonight!

Candace


March 5, 2008

There is controversy concerning one of the American Idol contestants. We were recently informed that David Hernandez was a dancer at a male strip club in Phoenix, Arizona. He worked there for about 3 years and quit in September 2007. However, the producers of American Idol do not have any plans to disqualify David from the competition. This is similar to another incident in 2003 when Idol contestant Frenchie Davis was disqualified because of her appearance on an adult website. Do you think the producers are making the right decision to keep David on the show or do you think this is a double standard?

**One of the American Idol producers is speaking out about the decision to keep David Hernandez on the show. You can check out that interview at http://www.tvguide.com

Let me know what you think!
Candace

Jim from Grasonville writes: Hey Candace, the producers need to remain consistent in their decisions on disqualifications and clearly justify their reasoning. I was very impressed by Kristy Lee's performance tonight with "Faithfully." I disagree with Simon and believe she had the best performance - it may launch her into the final 12. I don't think Kady will make it. Candace, do you have any predictions on who will be eliminated Thursday?

February 29, 2008

I am still in shock! I definitely did not think Alaina would go home last night. I thought she did very well throughout the competition. Simon even said he thought she was the dark horse in the competition and he was really beginning to like her. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case for America. I figured Jason Yeager would be sent home. I just don't think he stands out. When I talked to him in Hollywood... he said he has a lucky pair of underwear that he wears whenever he needs to do well. I guess he didn't wear them last night! Do you think America made the right choice this round? Also, check out the pictures section of the blog to see the eliminated contestants.

Talk to you later!
Candace


February 27, 2008

Chikeze really stepped it up last night! I'm so happy he did well... he definitely needed a solid performance to stay in the competition. Even Simon said Chikeze did a million times better than last week! However, even after Chikeze was in Simon's good graces... he still talked back to Simon when commenting about his orange suit from last week. Chikeze said he wouldn't wear it on TV again... only Simon would wear something multiple times on TV. Chikeze definitely knew he was wrong because he kept apologizing right after he made the comment. Hopefully America votes for him because of his vocal performance! On another note... I'm convinced Michael Johns is a great singer. He didn't have his best performance last night, but I don't think he will be packing his bags anytime soon. Let me know what you think.

Candace

Leen from Bowie writes: David Archuleta is definitely talented but it bothers me how he always licks his lips. I think the guys are stronger then the girls thus far. Michael Johns is great! I like Brook for the girls.

Jim from Grasonville writes: I agree with you Candace, Michael Johns did not have a stellar performance (poor choice of song) but will be around for a long while. The same goes for Ramiele. No worries - they both are extremely talented and are still my favorites with 20 remaining.


February 26, 2008

The top 10 guys will take the mic tonight! I think Chikeze Eze, Danny Noriega and Jason Yeager need to step it up tonight. When I talked to Jason in Hollywood, he told me he previously performed at an amusement park. He is used to being on a stage, but this is obviously on a much larger scale and he can't let his nerves get the best of him! Hopefully the guys have stronger performances this week... they are definitely a very talented group of singers.

Talk to you tomorrow!
Candace

Tammy from Havre de Grace: This year is one of the best singers i have heard and i think a few guys have it going on but there are some girls that are gonna kick butt not completely sure as of yet

February 20, 2008

Hello again. Wow! The guys really rocked it out last night! I still say David Archuleta is a definite standout this season. I also think Michael Johns is doing a great job as well. Chikeze Eze really surprised me when he reacted to Simon's comments. He rolled his eyes at Simon and became a little feisty. When I talked to Chikeze in Hollywood, he said he wanted to be a positive role model for children who watch the show. I don't think he lived up to that goal last night. Chikeze also told me he is putting his "all" into this competition and you can definitely see that when he performs. He is getting wrapped up in the frenzy... he needs to leave his emotions backstage and just focus on doing what he does best.

Candace

Judy from Elkton writes: American Idol this year of 2008 will be a great one. But one of your singers sang a song called "Where the Boys Are". Randy Made a comment to her and said he didn't really like the song and said "Patsy Cline had sang that song". NO, PATSY CLINE DID NOT SING THAT SONG EVER. IT WAS SUNG CONNIE FRANCIS. I thought the girl did a great job of the song and Randy should appologize to the girl who sang it on 2/20/08 on the next show in front of everyone on stage and who's watching it on TV. I can't believe that Randy Goofed. HE MESSED UP...

Jim from Grasonville writes: If Ramiele Malubay consistently sings like she did tonight, she will give Michael Johns a good run for the title. She was absolutely brilliant. Asia'h Epperson also shined tonight and shows great potential. In all, the talent field is more competitive than ever and this season is off to a fabulous start.

Carley from Marriottsville writes: I love American Idol Candace. I wonder who will win. Who do u want to win?


February 18, 2008

Welcome to the American Idol Blog! I am so excited to share my thoughts on Season Seven and hear what you have to say about this year's competition. I just went out to Hollywood to get the inside scoop from this year's Top 24. Each contestant said this is the most talented group of singers ever to compete in American Idol and I definitely agree with them. Of course, I do have my favorites. I really like David Archuleta. He is very excited to be a part of the competition and loves the fact that he is in Hollywood while his classmates are sitting in a classroom in Utah. As for the girls, I really like Syesha Mercado. She was sick during Hollywood week and barely even had a voice, but nothing can stop her... that girl can sing! Who do you think will make it to the top this year?

Talk to you soon!
Candace

Betty from Baltimore writes: Tough,very touph this year-especially the last test of elimination singing occapello.

Jim from Grasonville writes: Hey Candace, Michael Johns is by far the front-runner and most talented and should win it all. That being said, I thought the same about Chris Daughtry 2 years ago, and he finished with the bronze medal.