American Idol
on FOX
By Ally Matteodo
Best-of-the-Week American
Idol is still going strong after nine seasons. The run-up to the May 26th
finale, marked Simon Cowell’s last time judging the contestants. Earlier in the
season, American Idol searched for singing talent across the United
States, holding auditions in major cities from coast to coast. Now, after
weeding out all the other contenders, America will vote once again on the final
two singers, Lee Dewyze and Crystal Bowersox. Hosted by Ryan Seacrest, the
judging panel on American Idol is made up of Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson,
Kara Dioguardi, and Ellen Degeneres. For this particular episode the
contestants sang three songs each. The first was their favorite song in the
competition, the second was picked by executive producer Simon Fuller, and the
third was the song that they will release if they win. Lee performed “The
Boxer,” followed by “Everybody Hurts.” His final song was “A Beautiful Day.”
Crystal first sang “Me and Bobby McGee,” and then “Black Velvet,” ending with
“Up To the Mountain.”
Down to the final two, it
should be no surprise that the vocal performances were amazing. Even Simon
Cowell, the most difficult-to-please judge, was pleasantly cheerful and
constructive, and even referred to the night as a “love fest.” His phrase works
however, because this night was a love fest. The energy of the performers fed
off the enthusiastic and adoring audience, and the singers filled their voices
with all the emotion and passion they could muster. Simon concluded with an
extremely positive critique of Crystal’s performance, calling it “outstanding,”
and wished Lee happiness as well. Ultimately, Simon reiterated what this
program represents: a chance to give talented people a break. Lee, a paint
salesman from Illinois; and Crystal, a mom with a four-year-old from Ohio, both
worked hard and exhibit incredible talent, and now the stage is their showcase
for the world. It makes one realize how much can change in a year: one minute
you could be singing your son to sleep, and the next you could be singing to
millions of Americans. This program encourages you to not waste another minute
and share your gift with the world now.
Best TV Show
of the Week
The Parents
Television Council -
www.parentstv.org
