American Idol: Kris and Adam Battle It Out
It seems like the auditions just ended, but this was the second to the last episode of “American Idol” this season. It was the final showdown between mellowed out Kris and rock god Adam.
Kris chose to perform after Adam. That seems like a wise move, but if Adam knocks it out of the park as he often does, it doesn’t matter if you let him go first or last. The guys sang three songs tonight: one they chose, one chosen by creater Simon Fuller, and the winner’s single, co-written by Kara. Ah, so THAT is her purpose on the show.
At least Ryan warned those DVRing the show tomorrow night to set their machines appropriately because the finale will run a bit long.
Adam’s first song was “Mad World.” Randy loved that Adam showed his sensitive side and gave him an A+. Kara was happy he chose that performance. Simon thought this song was his best performance, but the coat made it “over theatrical.”
Kris’ choice was “Ain’t No Sunshine.” Funny that both chose tender, touching performances. Randy thinks Kris saved the best for last, saying it was one of his best performances of the season. Kara agreed, saying the song had an intimate bond. Paula said he “allenized” all his songs. Simon said that he was unsure America had made the right choice in putting Kris in the finale last week. But, tonight’s performance changed his mind. Simon gave round one to Kris. If Kris didn’t win, it was certainly a photo finish.
Simon Fuller chose “Change is Gonna Come” for Adam. Hum, I would have rather heard something rocking, but whatever. He certainly hit those notes! Randy called it “unbelievable.” Kara called it his best performance. Paula said it was the best “ever, ever, ever” and said he looked like a superstar. Simon said Adam was 100% back in the game with that performance.
Simon Fuller chose “What’s Going On” for Kris. Randy said this was a real, live duel tonight. He said it was a little bit light for him, however. Paula said he tore the song up and made Marvin Gaye proud. Simon said it was “like three friends in their bedroom, strumming along to Marvin Gaye” and too laid back. Round two apparently went to Adam.
The final song was “No Boundaries.” Randy said he was good, could sing the phone book, but that performance was a bit pitchy at points. Kara thanked him for doing the song so well. Paula said she would be a fan forever. Simon said he wouldn’t judge the song, but Adam. He then said Adam has been one of the most original contestants ever on the show. Then he said that they look for a world wide star and he thinks they have found it with him and congratulated him.
Poor Kris – how do you follow that up? With, of course, the same song. Randy said Kris should be very proud of what he has done in this competition. Kara said the song was a bit too high for him, but he has been incredible to watch. Simon said that he thought the highlight was the first song, but has seen how Kris’ confidence has grown of the season and he deserves to be standing on the stage tonight. No mention by the judges of who won round 3.
So, who does the title go to? I was a bit disappointed with Fuller’s song choices and of course, the song written for the show always sucks. I honestly am not going to vote tonight because I love both of these guys but in two entirely different ways and it would be hard to choose between them.
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