Yes, we met them

Okay, so part of our insane ticket package included passes to the after-party as guests of none other than Simon Cowell. In my line of work, I have been in the presence of many celebrities, yet I rarely interact with them and pretty much never get to or allow myself to act like the fan. However, last night, we did it. Why not? I love the show, the contestants and all these people were right in front of me -- it was time to be the fan that I am. Plus I looked good. Let me give a big shout out to Ed for starting most of these conversations -- he was on a roll.

First up, Jason Castro. He was hanging with his boyfriend / brother who has the Adam S hair gel / hair straightening thing down to the nth degree. Now I am saying he might be Jason's bro or his boy. Because they looked tight and Jason wears really tight skinny jeans. Just saying... He was cute and goofy and psyched to be there.

Then we were looking out at the crowd when Ed said, "Is that David?" Thinking he was referring to Cook I flung around to see David Hernandez looking straight at us because he heard Ed. So we acted all cool and said hi and congratulated him. He is actually very nice and down to earth. And then he said he was looking for Simon Fuller so we pointed him in the right direction and let him go on his way to try to connect with the creator of the show and extend his 15 minutes of fame.

Then we moved to a new position on the top of these stairs that lead to the pool area -- major traffic area so we figured we could catch everyone. Michael Johns walks up the stairs. Ed introduces himself and says - "This is my friend and she is in love with you." MJ says "And does your friend have a name?" while sliding over to me and smiling -- fortunately I did not ask him to his face if he winked at me during the show, but I did act a little goofy and tell him how I really enjoyed his performance tonight. And then he slid his arm around me because he thought I wanted to take a picture but Ed isn't good with the camera phone so I just asked for an autograph and held onto him a little too long. Not embarrassing at all - totally cool. RIGHT!

Then we saw Kristy who looked really pretty. She was coming up the steps and we introduced ourselves (we were almost holding court up there). Ed asked if the elder man with her was her boyfriend and they laughed because it was her FATHER. But Ed covered saying he was complementing him. And the Dad, who is funny said "We may be from Oregon but we're not that bad." Hee hee, we were joking with the Cook's.

Then we saw our old friend Fantasia and went right over and asked if she remembered us from the season she won (we had her perform at CFDA Awards right after she won). She said "I never forget a face" and hugged us. We congratulated her on Color Purple and she said that doing that show changed her life. She was with her fiance (as she introduced him to us, but it doesn't seem like she has announced her engagement in the press, so we got the scoop). She seems very happy and grounded and she told us her new album is coming out this summer. It was cool.

Simon Cowell's girlfriend Teri arrived and we complimented her on her Balenciaga dress -- she stopped and said thank you because she was surprised we knew who designed the dress so we told her we work in fashion (okay Ed really said all of this because I couldn't seem to speak too much). She did look great and let me tell you, there were very few people in the Nokia last night who looked good at all. LA ladies need stylist help - STAT.

And then the man who we had to thank for our FABULOUS seats arrived. Mr SImon Cowell, ladies and gentleman. He walked up the steps with security but Ed managed to get his attention and he introduced himself and mentioned the connection we have to Simon's friend and thanked him for the tickets. I then introduced myself and thanked him and we complimented him on a great show. He is super nice and quite well spoken and looks very good in a black suit. Amazing.

But, we are not done there.

Then we decided to go over to Syesha who looks really good by the way. She was nice but not as nice as everyone else had been. Mind you we were strangers just approaching her, but still a little weird.

Walked around to make sure Cook hadn't slipped by me and I saw Carly. The girl is gorgeous. And seeing the tattoo up close, I don't think it is Amy Winehouse, I think it might be a portrait of Carly? I don't know but her creamy white skin and amazing eyes were just striking. I introduced myself and Ed and congratulated her on the season and then we told her how much we loved her song with Michael Johns. We asked her if she had had fun and she gave us that great smile and laughed about how much fun she had. She said Nigel Lythgoe - the producer, picked the song to do with MJ and that she hadn't been sure about it, but she really enjoyed it. I wanted to talk to her all night, but I had to move on.

Saw Jordin Sparks and she is as big as a linebacker -- not fat per se, but so tall and big. Her Dad is a football player, right? Saw Blake -- he is cute and works that hair straightener like Adam too.

Favorite meeting of the night? The award goes to Brooke White and her husband. We actually approached them via her husband as they too came up the stairs. We congratulated him and introduced ourselves and said that we work in fashion and we know a certain designer who would love to dress her (I am not going to reveal who here for various reasons). He was psyched about it and then Brooke came over and we introduced ourselves and she actually wanted to make sure she was saying my name properly. We congratulated her and told her about the designer and she was so happy. She said she needed help finding clothes and that she likes to wear things more covered up. By the way, this girl is gorgeous. Stunning. She is thin and her hair is gorgeous and she has great skin and a beautiful smile. She started talking about the journey of the show and Ed said that she has come a long way from baby sitting and she said how much she had enjoyed that -- she would do it again because she loves children and it was really grounding and good for her. Talked some more with both of them and her hubby has my card to get in touch. They were really nice.

Other thing I noticed is that these contestants (esp Brooke, Michael, Carly) are legitimately friends. There is a true camaraderie and love amongst them all. They are going to have a blast on tour.

Unfortunately Archie didn't come to the party -- I think he was doing press til at least 11 so it was probably bedtime. But finally almost at midnight, the man of the hour showed up. Yes, everyone, Cook was in the house!

We were waiting for him to come up the steps but we noticed a crowd forming so we went down to try to get to him. I stood right next to him and was about to get his attention but he kept getting pulled at by different people. So I saw him graciously greet people and take pictures and he is taller than me in heels and he looks good and his scruff is perfect right now and yes, he had a lot of hair product. He was surrounded by his family, Mom, Bro, etc. Before I could meet him, his people took him away (now he has people) to a more quiet area. He looked exhausted which I saw him admit to in interviews I read today. But I congratulated his Mom and introduced myslef ot his bro Andrew who said he was having a blast and that he loves LA and wants to move there.

Watched Cook and his family go to their seating area which was near the pool and overlooked the lights of LA. They did a group hug and looked out at the view and took it all in. What a great family. They were really enjoying these moments -- and how deserving. David Cook is a star now and I helped get him there.

So we did good in our quest -- didn't talk to Chikezie (saw him though) or Amanda and Ramiele (didn't see them and didn't care).

I'm exhausted, but still so high on my journey to Idol. I will never forget it. Believe it or not, I still have more to say, but I leave you tonight.

don't be ashamed of your obsessions...maybe you will get the chance to meet some of them!

The best night of my life

FIFTH ROW seats. Yes, I said FIFTH ROW. Gaspy's Mom and Dad were 4 rows up, Fantasia was across the aisle, the judges were just over in the next section, Teri Hatcher was two rows up and the stage was FIVE rows in front of us. I never had to look at the screens because I could see all of the people on stage perfectly. I can't describe the euphoria.

Other sightings in audience? Camryn Manheim, Ace Young, Sanjaya (oh and some girls went up to him crying like losers), Blake Lewis, Ashley Tisdale, Holly Robinson Peete, Gary Marshall, etc. In other words - tons of random people sitting with the Super VIPs Ed and myself.

So we settle in to watch the show. I was ready for the outcome, assumed Gaspy was going to be crowned victor. But it didn't matter - Cook was a star and would be able to make an album and I could buy it and that was all that mattered. So I was ready to just enjoy the performances. And what a night. Hands down, best finale ever.

Nigel Lythgoe and team listened to the criticism of last year -- the show went back to being about the top contestants -- not random artists who had no connection to the show, but the reasons that we all watched all season -- the contestants. So Cook and Gaspy did Nickleback (anyone besides Ed and I notice that Gaspy is wearing a chain on his jeans like Cook? He adores his big bro). And Syesha sings with Seal - good job Syesha! And Carly and Michael sing together (remember when we thought that was going to be the finale?) And the girls sing with Donna Summer who was amazing. And the boys sing with Bryan Adams which was phenomenal. I can't even explain the memories I have of singing Bryan Adams, Cuts Like a Knife in my bedroom when I was little.

Oh and side note of MOST importance. While the boys were setting up for Bryan Adams medley, Michael Johns was on the floor of the audience next to the stage in front of us. I was smiling at him and he totally smiled back and winked -- AT ME! Or maybe it was Justin Guarini who was sitting behind us, but Ed and I both thought it was at me. I was psyched.

David Cook with ZZ Top - he was awesome, but deserved a better partnership. David A with One Republic -- so smart -- if he had only done a modern song like that in the competition I would have understood the kind of album he could make. Jason Castro solo'd and was genuinely shaking with nerves (I could tell because I was that close). Brooke's duet with Graham Nash was awesome. Really good. Interesting that Kristy Lee Cook who was kicked off after Michael Johns didn't get to sing solo or duet. Top 12 sang together (anyone think Amanda Overmyer did not want to be there?) She doesn't get to go on tour so she was probably like, why bother?

And then there were the guest singers. Jordin Sparks who did a good job. As I had to explain to my date for the evening, I don't have anything against her, but her types of songs are not at all the kind of music I personally listen to (especially when she says Tattoo in the most annoying way ever). Carrie who will do anything for Idol. She looked amazing. Weird chiffon thing behind her, but this girl has a rocking bod and a voice of gold.

And then, although I had heard a hint of this today, I was still so excited when I spotted The man. The man whose concert in Philly I, at age 16 was allowed to go to with 5 friends in a limo from Jersey. Yes, I am talking about GM himself, George Michael. His voice was just stunning. So glad he didn't do anything new. Unfortunate that Carrie just did that song on Idol Gives Back (unfortunate for her) because he is AMAZING.

And they did look back a little on the funny moments and the guy in the bird suit came out and sang which was funny. Ryan was on stage the whole time -- on the sidelines or even sitting on the steps of the cool towers. I know his job isn't that hard, but he wasn't hiding in his dressing room or anything. The judges got LOTs of touch-ups which I thought was weird. But also, they talk to each other a lot -- lots of discussion during the show and during commercial breaks. And I decided that I liked Paula this season -- I know she had some weird moments, but I actually liked her opinions better than Randy this time round. And she is actually very pretty in person. And teeny tiny!

So two hours pass by at such a nice pace -- the show was chock full of great vocal moments. But then it was time for the decision and my stomach knotted and churned and I realized what was about to come -- the results. Can we give shout outs to Cook's outfits tonight? He looked great - as did all of the contestants except Amanda Overmyer. TV really adds weight to people, because they are much thinner than they look on TV.

Then Ryan cuts to judges and Randy says blah blah and Paula says blah blah and then Simon. Simon says that he re-watched last night's show at home and it was not as clear cut as he had thought and that he was disrespectful of David Cook for calling the night so absolutely, AND that it was a great season, and they were both "triers," whatever that means, AND that it doesn't matter which one wins because they are both winners. And then I knew. Cook won. I don't know if the judges know before the announcement, but Simon had to back off from his absolute statement behind Archuleta because Simon does not like to be wrong - ever. So part of me knew what was to come.

But wait, that's ridiculous. Yes, I read a lot of message boards and they were all about Cook but I figured little kids were not on the message boards and had voted for Gaspy. Could it be possible? No, come on Rach don't get excited over this, of course Gaspy is going to win. Everyone thinks so, right? Okay, I didn't really have this much time to think because the results came fast, but this definitely describes the state my mind was in.

And then Ryan said it DAVID COOK. Amazing. My rocker won. We, the people who wanted the rocker, who wanted originality, who wanted the Man, we won. And what a dignified man he is. The strength in his crying -- his shout out to Gaspy, his all inclusive behavior with the rest of the contestants, the song sang perfectly to the end, no breakdowns. And can we talk about that song? The Time of My Life. So this was the one that won the online voting. Totally worked as a finale song for Cook - he could have done that the night before perfectly well and not made us all so worried.

Cook sang, the contestants gathered, the pyrotechnics went off (did I mention that we felt the HEAT from the pyro throughout the show because we were that close?), the confetti fell (I kept some of it) and Season 7 came to an end. And what a season it was. For all those (AMY) who wondered if this show could end with the "cool" winner -- even after those surprise ousters of Carly and Michael Johns, could someone like David Cook win? YES. I said YES people. This is American Idol and the people voted and Cook won - despite Simon basically saying he would not win if hell froze over. WOW.

I give a HUGE shout out to Gaspy who has provided me with much to write about this season. He kicked it in the finale and tonight and had amazing moments this season. And for all the gasping, I give him this -- he was not upset about being the runner up. He smiled and graciously stepped to the side and cheered on his big bro. Classy - super classy.

More tomorrow everyone -- highlights from the after party. All I can say is this -- we met 8 out of the top 12 (like met and had conversations with) plus other KEY VIPs and I need to give you all the details.

Plus I will list my top 10 performances of the season. Oh gosh, what will I do until January?

What a night - all obsessions satisfied. And gosh darn it...

I was by no means ashamed of my obsessions... GO COOK!

The Man vs The Boy

Yes, I was in LA. Yes, I was at the Nokia Theater. Yes, I saw it all live. Yes, I was freaking out. Okay, now to the serious stuff.

Show opens with a fight night (shout out to Cindy) theme. The David's are portrayed as boxers in the ring, ready for a duel. What was obvious is that this was a match. Not a great star against a wannabe. This was meant to be a fight. And as most people felt in the room, both David's had their fans. Looking back on past seasons, this kind of energy was probably not felt since Ruben and Clay or Bo and Carrie. But ultimately, no other season has been this hotly contested.

From the very first appearance of the duo, it was clear what the roles were. Cook was the big brother, guiding Gaspy around the stage, even at one point in the night whispering in his ear to take it all in, the room, the stage, the 7000 people. Cook understood what the night meant for these two and Gaspy was in awe (and gasping a lot).

ROUND 1
Cook goes first with Clive Davis's choice U2's "Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" Phenomenal choice. Cook ruled the room. He was focused, his voice soared and the anthem of a song allowed him to sweep everyone in. The upturned collar on his grey jacket and his new all up do looked phenomenal. As Ed said, he managed to sing to a room of 7000 as if he was just singing to one -- he delivered an intimate anthem in the biggest venue he has ever performed in. The judges like it - Simon says it is phenomenal despite seeing him start with nerves and tension.

Gaspy gets Clive's "Don't Let the Sun Go Down On Me." Don't quote me on this, but I believe Clive also picked this song for Clay and Bo -- he must be Elton's BFF. Gaspy really nails this -- good energy, focused and he is in the best voice I have ever heard, or maybe this is how he sounds live (yeah, cause I was there). I liked when he was bouncing a little bit up and down. Simon calls this round for Gaspy which I disagree with. I've heard the Elton song many a time, but to be able to rule on U2? Cook wins for me.

ROUND 2
First of all, Lord ALW is really funny - I like that they brought him back. Cook does his pick of the original songs - "Dream Big". Let me begin by saying that all of these original songs sucked. Cook either picked a more upbeat one or most likely transformed a song (in a week, while preparing 2 other songs). Just read from Cook that they had very little time to pick the song. He went with his instinct. To be honest, it was not that emotional of a song as "This Is My Now" or "Inside Your Heaven" or "A Moment Like This", but it was Cook pure and true. Love the black leather jacket and that Randy acknowledged that he "sang his face off." I still remember this one compared to Gaspy, so does that mean something? Simon says Cook did the best with what he had but didn't create a winning moment. Aha.

Gaspy picked "In This Moment" - actually I don't know the name because it was hard to hear the films with the children screaming in the audience. He closed his eyes and sang his heart out. And all of his breath too. Simon called it a better song because it was more in keeping with the theme of the show -- in other words, the original song should be an emotional inspiring ballad. Gaspy did that. Simon gives round 2 to Gaspy. Gaspy almost fell over. I don't know, from the man who calls songs gooey, he does want the finale song to be typically cheese? It is a hard pattern to break out of -- I mean can you imagine confetti falling on Cook's original song choice? Tricky.

ROUND 3
Here is some background I just read from the David's themselves. Cook did pick a new song for him - Collective Soul which he has wanted to do all season. Gaspy actually could not get clearance rights for the songs he wanted to do so he went back to Imagine. Interesting.

Cook begins in a great black button down shirt with a tie - classy. He sings the Collective Soul song which I like, but I know is not universally appealing. When he is finished, the emotion of it all hits him. Let me reiterate that if for the first time I was singing in this auditorium in front of 7000 people, I would have been a mess. But Cook's way of crying is so manly and strong and classy. I was moved. So happy that Randy spoke of his sensitive side and Paula called out his integrity and Simon said Cook is one of the nicest, most sincere contestants ever. Check, check and check. And as to picking this song? As I said above, it is a song Cook loves and is a song that will sound like what Cook records. Also, as he eloquently stated, "I viewed each week as a progression so why would I go back and do something again?"

Gaspy performs Imagine -- his highlight of the season. He hit a lot of runs but had a beautiful voice. It was really good. Simon calls this one of the great finals of the show (I say the best personally) and that Gaspy delivered a knockout. Umm not so fast Simon.

Before the final analysis, let me give a shout out to Ruben for closing out the show with class -- I have never been a fan of that Celebrate Me Home song, but Ruben can sing, man - for sure.

I think those who watched will feel the same way I did watching LIVE (yeah, had to rub it in again). It is really hard to compare these two. They are in different leagues - that of a man (Cook) versus that of a boy (Gaspy). And I don't say that in a condescending way. But Cook performed as he would - with the choices that he would make and the emotion that he shows, with strength and poise and rocker charm. Gaspy is 17 and his wide-eyed amazement of it all was mixed with a fantastic night of vocals and emotive song choices. The kid looked like he was about to fall over out of shock -- Gaspy needed oxygen stat! But he sang really well. That combo for Gaspy led to a fantastic performance night. A knockout? No, not in my opinion, but what a duel.

Bottom line is this -- I voted for Cook 30 times. If the winner was based SOLELY on tonight, Gaspy wins (god help him, he really might need some oxygen tomorrow). If it is based on the season (as it is for me) Cook wins by a landslide. But I am really happy that Gaspy did do well tonight, because if was going to win and hadn't done this well, I would have been really upset, but now, I won't be unhappy. I will be happily, impatiently awaiting Cook's album release. And in the meantime, listening to all my downloads of his songs from the season, again and again.

Oh and I am going to the after party after tomorrow night where I intend to hunt Cook down. Seriously. Hunt him down.

Even from LA my friends,

don't be ashamed of your obsessions...

Mine are making me SUPER HAPPY.

OMG - I'm going to LA

So I am extremely excited. I was hopping a little in the office. I have been listening to my personal Idol 08 mix that I made off of iTunes. For those of you who might want to share in this, buy those downloads now -- they will go off of iTunes when the show ends. God these Idol producers should pay me. Okay, so as I pack my suitcase I wanted to give you a little re-cap on my thoughts before the finale of David vs David. I did re-watch the top 12 for my analysis and I have to say that this was an incredible season. So many more moments than the one Blake Lewis Bon Jovi moment from last season. So much talent. Okay, enough already, let's analyze week to week - The David Face-off!

TOP 12 BEATLES
David C "Eleanor Rigby" vs. David A "We Can Work It Out"
Simon Says: S+ for Cook and S- for Gaspy
My verdict: David C all the way, his fresh spin was far better than Gaspy trying to do Stevie Wonder's version of a Beatles song and forgetting the words.

TOP 11 BEATLES
David C "Daytripper" vs. David A "The Long and Winding Road"
Simon Says: S- for Cook and S+ for Gaspy
My verdict: Simon thought he looked smug, but David C's version was much more fun than Gaspy's boring "masterclass" as Simon called it. Gaspy sang well, but Cook wins.

TOP 10 THE YEAR THEY WERE BORN
David C "Billy Jean" vs. David A "The Up with People Song"
Simon Says: S+ for Cook and S- for Gaspy
My verdict: Look I don't even remember the name of Gaspy's song. Even though Cook didn't invent this version, by god there were definitely no animated animals in the background. Cook rocks.

TOP 9 DOLLY PARTON
David C "Little Sparrow" vs. David A "Smoky Mountain Memories"
Simon Says: S+ for both
My verdict: It's a tie. Love Cook's inventiveness, but Gaspy sang his heart out.

TOP 8 INSPIRATIONAL
David C "Innocent" vs. David A "Angels"
Simon Says: S- for Cook and S+ for Gaspy
My verdict: Gaspy wins by a landslide. Perfect song choice done really nicely.

TOP 7 MARIAH CAREY
David C "Always Be My Baby" vs. David A "When You Believe"
Simon Says: S+ for both the boys
My verdict: Upon listening to the season again, Cook's original haunting version of this Mariah song may be my favorite performance of the season. Gaspy sang alright, but cannot stand up to Cook.

TOP 6 ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER
David C "Music of the Night" vs. David A "Think of Me"
Simon Says: Just an S for Cook and a S- for Gaspy
My verdict: Cook showed an amazing range while Gaspy tried to modernize the song. Still prefer Cook sticking to the original when it should be stuck to. (Carly really won the night).

TOP 5 NEIL DIAMOND
David C "I'm Alive" and "All I Really Need Is You" vs. David A "Sweet Caroline" and "America"
Simon Says: Just an S for both David's on their first round and then S+ for Cook's second song and S+ for Gaspy (but Simon called Cook BRILLIANT).
My verdict: Cook's I'm Alive rocked, but it was the acoustic guitar on All I Really Need Is You swelling into a rock anthem once again blew me away. And I am so upset that they didn't put this single on iTunes. I bought the video, but why did they do this to me? Gaspy was cheesy. He tried really hard, but it solidified my idea of what his album will sound like. Cook wins the week.

TOP 4 ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME
David C "Hungry Like the Wolf" and "Baba O'Riley" vs. David A "Stand By Me" and "Love Me Tender"
Simon Says: S for Duran Duran and S+ for Stand By Me, S+ for Cook's Who and S+ for Gaspy's Elvis
My verdict: Love that Gaspy's Stand By Me got his Dad kicked out of rehearsals. And he sang it really well. Was not Cook's best week since he didn't have any surprise transformations of a song. But that just points to how good he has been -- when he just performs 2 songs well, it isn't enough compared to how great he has been. Gaspy pulled a very tender Love Me Tender. I'm giving the week to Gaspy but barely.

TOP 3 JUDGES CHOICE
David C "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" "Dare You To Move" "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" vs. David A "And So It Goes" "With You" "Longer Than"
Simon says: Cook got a S+, S and S+ and Gaspy got an S, S and S-. And Simon said Cook won the night.
My verdict: I am again pissed at the producers for not putting Cook's version of The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face on iTunes. I absolutely loved it. Although the Switchfoot song was not great, the choice was and of course I Don't Want to Miss a Thing was dramatic and moving and perfect. I give Gaspy credit for a nice Billy Joel, will not speak about his boo song and he did the best he could with Longer Than. Cook wins hands down.

So the tally? 7 weeks to Cook, 2 weeks to Gaspy and 1 tie. COOK WINS (and the crowd goes wild!!!) From my poll last week (which 5 of you responded to!) There were 4 for Cook and 1 for Gaspy although I think Adam's intentions were questionable. I will definitely be blogging tomorrow and Wednesday and also expect a TOP 10 performances from the season after I return. I would ask you for your votes for highlight performances but I doubt you will answer. Whatever, I'm going to see David Cook live tomorrow and you (except for Ed) will not. So no matter what, I win. Whew, I need to stop now because I am going out of control. My gosh everyone,

don't be ashamed of your obsessions...

Guess who I'm seeing in the finale?

I'm writing this entry in a bigger font because it is almost final two time. I will not deny that I was nervous, shaking a little, furrowing my brow, leaning into the TV in anticipation. I got home late so I had to do a quick FFWD viewing of key voting related topics and then go back and get all details. But the stress was worth it.

Opening song. Really, jazz squares? Over and over? Was that necessary? I mean the show makes zillions of dollars from Coke - can they not hire a choreographer, or better yet a backup dance troupe?

Recap -- anyone realize that Randy told Syesha that she was standing there in third place. Or that Paula expected nothing more from David A but a lovely performance? These two have got to speak English properly unless that is what they meant to say. It is really sad.

Then Fantasia came back. She sang a song called Bore Me. It was frantic, not boring. David A was scared of her. I love her energy but I couldn't understand the words. I actually never heard Bore Me, the title. Did you see Simon Cowell's face? He thought it was the strangest thing ever. Why would they show him acting that way?

David A comes out for highlights from hometown visit. Gaspy cannot answer a single question. He sees the Murray High Cheerleaders and he is very excited. His fans are 5. They grab at him and he gasps a lot. But seriously when he was crying and overwhelmed it was sweet. Gosh. And he was crying because seeing these people made his hard work pay off. Gosh. He has been tortured by his Dad. He is so stressed out. Gosh. His Mom is pretty. Gosh. (Gasp) Gosh.

Then they show his story. New song - thank god it isn't Ruben's song. It is Green Day, right? Heres Comes the Rest of Our Lives. Gaspy looks the same in every shot - smiling with mouth closed or gasping with mouth open. Two expressions, that's it.

Syesha comes out. What length is her real hair? Why do I care? She is from Sarasota. Someone threw her baby at Syesha. Oh her hair is normal now. They straighten it every time? Crazy. I forgot that her Dad was the one with the drug and alcohol problem who recovered. That was from the auditions when she didn't bug me. Her Mayor did a handstand. She is a 90 yr old woman. She was crying a lot. Because she saw how the song she sang changed her life and brought crowds of people to watch her and don't forget it furthered the civil rights movement.

David Cook comes out. The crowd goes wild. And then we get ot meet David's hot brother. They show Cook going home and just to reinforce my love for him, his hometown sequence features Bon Jovi in the background and then he sings Bon Jovi to the crowd. He is just blown away by how many people are there. It was one of the few times I've seen genuine excitement from him. And then he surprised his music teacher. So sweet. Oh my god, if I was in that elementary school I would have gone crazy. Umm David's younger brother is hot. But he is probably 24 or 22 so that is a problem. And then Cook started crying in a really dignified way because he is that cool.

David's season re-cap. The physical transformation is amazing of course. But it also made me remember how many great performances this guy has had. By the way, this weekend at my apartment I will be watching the episodes from Top 12 on. Yes!

Randy told them they should be well proud of themselves. WHAT? Paula actually said a very nice thing. Life is about moments and if you are lucky enough, you create ones that will last forever, and if you're really really really lucky the world will watch. She stole that, right? Simon thinks next week is going to be a humdinger. America is rubbing off on him.

Results. The two finalists are David A (Gaspy said oh gosh!) Now his Dad won't beat him. AND David Cook. All of the top 12 are in the audience -- Hi Michael Johns! Hi Carly!

For once Syesha kept it short and sweet - she said thank you and then she sang.

And now we are on to the finale. What will be the finale song? How much better will David Cook do it than Gaspy? Just kidding all you Archuleta fans. It is a clean slate. Three performances each next week. Who will be the next... American Idol. Would love to hear from you who you want as of now (not who you think will win, but who you think should). Just respond to my email. And then I want to hear on Tuesday night who you think should win. Some research for me.

Gosh everyone, I can't wait til next week!!!

and Gosh remember, don't be ashamed of your obsessions...

Three's a charm

A high school student, an actress and a bartender. For those who know me well, you now understand another reason why David Cook is my favorite. So many famous people in the audience tonight (and that all important VIP Ed!) Of course next week is when the real VIP will be there (me, dummies!) I need to track the judges thoughts tonight because I want to discuss at the end.

ROUND 1 - JUDGES CHOICE
First up David A goes to his home town in Utah. Let's talk about scary Mayor Star -- that moustache was something. And don't forget the red, white and blue shirt. Is David A a Mormon like Brooke? Paula picks "And So It Goes." I'm a huge Billy Joel fan but also anyone my age who was in chorus sang this song in high school - a cappella and in 4 parts. Gaspy starts a cappella. Nice. Honestly though, this is a song that he could have sang completely straight -- no runs, no changes. Stand still with the mic on a stand, look forward, eyes open and sing. Instead, I was looking around for Gaspy - he bends over, he closes his eyes, he leans to the right and left. Where's Gaspy? But I liked his voice.
RANDY - you can sing anything, you are in the zone, you're in it to win it baby
PAULA - blah blah you were a storyteller blah blah
SIMON - a bit predictable, it was good, I don't think it was outstanding, good

Then Syesha -- were there no fans for Syesha? Why was she shown getting a text from Randy while in a limo - alone? So Randy picks "If I Ain't Got You" by Alicia. So in a season where Syesha has been criticized of being a copycat and trying to do Whitney, Mariah, Fantasia, etc. why would you give her Alicia? He's a dope. She did a decent job.
RANDY - You did an amazing job on it. I could see your heart beaming. You are peaking at the right time.
PAULA -- blah blah you look stunning blah blah
SIMON -- criticized Randy's song choice, you sang that very well.
Jess, now I know why you like her -- because she talks like you -- like Thanks Girl and Be myself, you know? spoken with attitude.

Third David Cook gets a text from Simon while on the air in Kansas City, "First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" by Roberta Flack. What a choice. Even before a note was sung, I knew Simon had given David a challenge he could handle. Dying -- his Mom standing in the audience alone. Simon was clapping for him while he was singing. He changed it and made it relevant. And sang. His Dad was there too.
RANDY - You can sing the phonebook too. I wish Simon would have picked something that wasn't as predictable as this older kind of song for you because I want you to rock. You're a rocker.
PAULA -- It is about you. blah blah
SIMON -- One of your best performances to date. This is what makes you brilliant because you take risks. it's original. Round 1 goes to Cook and Cowell.

WINNER: David Cook and he winked at his Mom - you all know I love a wink.

ROUND 2 CONTESTANT'S CHOICE
Gaspy picks "With You" by Chris Brown because (gasp) it's something he hasn't done yet (gasp). He hasn't done it for a while (gasp) thought he would try something new (gasp). Then he got up and ran away from Ryan. He said boo -- hee hee -- he said boo again. You know what - this is totally cheesy, but he is adorable. And he finally is relaxed a little. Although he keeps swaying from side to side. And he is making me sea sick.
RANDY -- I'm not sure that was the right song, I couldn't believe it - and Randy said boo too.
PAULA -- blah blah this is another part of who you are blah blah
SIMON -- I applaud you for trying something different but it was a little bit like a chihuahua trying to be a tiger.

I SPY GAVIN DEGRAW -- did you know his new album just took over for most downloads on Itunes - that is awesome. I love him.

Syesha is wearing another sparkly dress and picked another Broadway song and spoke in another annoying voice and she chose "Fever" because she wanted to use a chair. Once again, she did a decent job which is good to see in the Top 3. But so dramatic for geez.
RANDY -- You sang it amazingly well, again another great performance
PAULA -- I'm not sure it shows me who Syesha is as an artist (good note Paula!)
SIMON -- I think you will probably regret that decision tomorrow. You had the chance to prove you could be a contemporary artist and you did a lame cabaret performance.

I SPY EMILY VAN CAMP FROM BROTHERS AND SISTERS

Ryan was sitting in a little chair. David Cook picked "Dare You to Move" by Switchfoot. He showed some personality sassing Ryan. The words are perfect for this moment. Someone should have submitted this for the finale song. He isn't in perfect voice for this. Umm there was a sign Cougars for Cook.
RANDY -- Great great song choice Performance wise a little pitchy baby
PAULA -- blah blah I wanted more blah blah
SIMON -- I don't think its the best melodic song in the world. Okay middle round.

WINNER -- David Cook but wiggly Gaspy was cute

ROUND 3 PRODUCER'S CHOICE -- used to Clive Davis's Choice but he is now removed from Sony/BMG or something because people are idiots so now the AI producers pick a song.
Gaspy gets "Longer" by Dan Fogleberg. Look, I love this song. This is Raj and Prit's song. But really? The producers give sappy mcgaspy this cheesy mccheesy song? I know why -- they don't want him to only get the votes of the young tweens, they want the old people in the audience to vote for him to. I will not be duped by these producers. Gaspy sang really well but an old song does not yield an older vote from this texter. Hey Ed, did Gaspy blow you a kiss? Or maybe that was to his Dad who was not allowed to be at rehearsals with him this week.
RANDY -- You can sing the phone book. You're in the zone vocally Another hot one for you HOT HOT HOT -- WHAT WHAT WHAT? Did Jason leave him his pipe?
PAULA -- blah blah lovely blah blah
SIMON -- You sang the song very well. It was so gooey - it was something you choose for a 90 year old.

I SPY the Asian guy from Entourage and Justin Guarini!

Syesha does "Hit Me Up" from Happy Feet. We don't know who sang it. She is wearing another sparkly top. This was my favorite Syesha performance from the whole season. Hope she does this tomorrow for her farewell performance. Yes, I did say that!
RANDY -- It was just okay for me
PAULA -- blah blah penguins blah blah not good enough to get into the finals
SIMON -- It was better than the second song. You had your best moment last week with the Sam Cooke song. No ending defining moment (side note she didn't pick the song - obviously the producers want her to go sayonara but leave a taste of the album they will put out with her)

I SPY Ryan in the mosh pit surrounding by weird looking people especially a boy to his right who could not stop smiling or nodding at Ryan and then at the camera, at Ryan and then at the camera, at Ryan and then at the camera -- 8 times, I counted.

David Cook is given "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" by Aerosmith. Love this song. Did he choose the arrangement -- I loved how it was a little faster and the strings were rhythmic. And he is smiling like he is enjoying it. Is he a little hoarse - me too David! I have a throat infection and can't stop coughing. I understand. But you sound better than me. I just rewound this and watched it 5 times. Stop showing the guitar player! Show me Cook! How cool is this for him? He was a dorky, not cool guy with a comb over and a good voice and now he is singing for 30 million people and getting to show off all his talents to the writer of the song, Diane Warren, who was in the audience -- so cool.
RANDY -- For me, I loved this song it was okay for me, it's still uhh. Very predictable
PAULA -- blah blah cya in tha finals that's what I predict.
SIMON -- One of the great songs of all time. And i have to tell you David Cook wins the night.
And the crowd all gets to its feet and he is just soaking it all in and thanking the right people and I think he is overwhelmed.

WINNER - COOK, Baby, COOK

So the point of my judges comments? To show that Randy has absolutely lost it. He lives for David A, is hot and cold with Syesha and barely gives David Cook anything. So now not only is Paula in the blah blah zone (although except for that one crazy night, this was her best season to date) Randy is now officially in the blah blah zone too. The only judge worthy of listening to is Simon. Randy was purposefully opposite from Simon on almost everything!

Whatever. I can't believe we have come this far together. I voted for David C 25 times. What a great night, right? David Cook is amazing and David A is really talented (though a bit scary with the dancing / swaying / leaning forward moves). Syesha was good too tonight but annoying as usual in her sparkly outfits. Tomorrow results -- you'll hear more from me then - when Syesha goes home. Until then,

don't be ashamed of your obsessions...

And then there were three

The suspense is killing me. Okay, not killing me, but making me a little sick because if something happens to David Cook I might lose my dinner. Why is Paula wearing a one-shouldered ball gown? Did she think she was at the Met? So Randy didn't make Syesha cry, Paula did. That makes me giggle -- Paula Abdul's words of support and love moved Syesha so much that she was brought to tears. These two are a hoot.

Shout outs to my comments on last night's blog. Linda thinks Carly would have stayed if she had done All I Ask of You -- she may be right because it may have counter balanced her bad ass tattoo. Jess kind of likes Syesha -- Jess, I may have to disown you as my niece.

Group number -- how awkward. They totally pair up David Cook and David A. David A was smiling at David Cook -- I think he might worship him. Oh yes, the guitar player came through the back of the stage and then the Idols were up on the balcony -- cool dude -- this show is full of special effects just like Indiana Jones!

Break and then the re-cap. Song choice, song choice, song choice. Well the rumor mill says that they actually only had a choice of 50 songs to pick from, not all 500. Don't know if that is true but it explains some things. And now it is time for some results...I'm nervous, stomach is churning.

Of course they have to bring Gaspy out first because he would have a breakdown if he wasn't safe. He is still so happy about what the judges said tonight. He is so cute. Oh guess what? He is safe! And his Dad gave him two thumbs up. And then Ryan had to deal with some technical difficulties.

They got to take a private plane to Vegas to see the Beatles Love Show. Is the show owned by Simon Fuller? Jason got kissed, Gaspy was gasping when he saw all the fans, Syesha touched a dolphin and David Cook got a manicure. Can we say shameless plug?

Oh thank god, Cook is out next. Why is Ryan dragging this out? And how could Randy act as if this guy has ever really done anything wrong? My god -- he is so much better than the rest of these kids. He said he wasn't feeling well. His head wasn't in the right place. Maybe it's allergies -- my head feels weird every day recently and yesterday I was caught unexpectedly dancing in the office and today I was very cranky in the morning. Maybe I was feeling whatever David was. Sympathy pains. DAVID IS SAFE! Yesssss.

Bottom two is Jason and Syesha. Ryan tries to fake them out that he is going to reveal the results. And that smart one Jason was so smart and he said he could not believe Ryan was going to reveal that early in the program and he was right! He is so smart.

Now I know why David Cook was not feeling so well. He had to wear that terrible matador outfit in the Ford commercial. And then with the Q&A, David Cook has to endure a stalker asking him to go on a date with her when he comes to Pittsburgh on the tour. Umm can someone explain why Gaspy couldn't answer what the biggest challenge he had to overcome was? Didn't he have vocal paralysis and couldn't sing? Was that not a challenge, Gaspy? Then Jason said his brain was dead. Really? Maybe it died in all of the smoke? I love the questions for Simon -- he should be knighted and could be the next James Bond. What planet are these people on?

Maroon 5 comes out. Are they owned by Simon Fuller? They always perform on this show. They are saving Bo for last. I love him. I did like Adam Levine's advice -- it is a lot of work -- oh well, Jason Castro would be screwed because his brain is dead.

Bo came out from the back in a burst of light. His hair is super long. He was the first rocker on this show. He lost to Carrie Underwood. His first album didn't do too well but I actually really liked it. Oh yeah, then he used the mic thing -- what is it called again? I have to scroll down - didn't someone else use that earlier this season? He's not in great voice, but it is nice to see him again. I hope he is feeling well -- he had intestinal surgery after Idol was over -- why do I know these things? He did the wink at the end -- I loved the wink.

It is results time -- Jason thinks this is so funny because he has lost his brain. It is true that he is the most inexperienced -- compared to the other contestants, he really is an amateur. Remember how at the beginning the show was being criticized for having semi professionals or professionals on the show? Well Jason wasn't one of those. So to those who criticized, you could have had a whole season of Jasons. Oh and then Syesha compared the meaning of the song to the race for president and how it relates to her. Relaly? She didn't -- first her journey on Idol is like the Civil Rights Movement and now the fact that there could be a femals or black president relates to her making it to the top 3. For Geez!!!!

So the Davids are in the top with Syesha. Next week three songs -- contestant's choice, judge's choice and it used to be Clive Daviss choice -- maybe it is producer's choice? I can't remember. But it is a good episode. And two weeks from now? I'm in LA baby!!! God I have to bring my laptop to blog!

don't be ashamed of your obsessions (or that your brain is dead)...

WATCH OUT -- Brooke disease alert!

Okay people, let me start with this. Not a great episode. No over the moon moment, some solid work and some TERRIBLE performances. I am ready for next week. Well actually I am ready for tomorrow because Bo Bice is performing and I've missed him a little.

So Ryan opens and says that 3 of these top four have had the highest number of votes at least once. Jason Castro? It can't be Syesha because she was always in the bottom. So I know my mission, obliterate dreadlock boy. Maybe he will last longer than Syesha because this world is warped and twisted and Carly is in the audience, but still, it must be my misson and all of yours if you choose to join me.

So two songs again, chosen from members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame - score one for David Cook who might be the only one who knows which bands are in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Comments after each performance so no weird Paula moments (thought she has some anyway).

David Cook -- "Hungry Like the Wolf" Interesting choice, not as exciting vocally as I would have hoped. But he is by far the coolest contestant. I like the snarl. And I like that I am pretty clear on the types of songs he is going to make. I didn't realize that I didn't really know the words to this song. I guess I could never understand Simon Le Bon. I do not like Paula hitting on him - she is dirty. She said that he leaves her with a big appetite. Ewww. He doesn't seem too into it. Something has gotten him thinking (besides Paula's nasty comments).

By the way, I really cannot believe the transformation with this guy. I always liked his voice, but now I think he is really handsome and cool and Idol hair, make-up, wardrobe teams -- good job!

Syesha -- "Proud Mary" Oh my gosh she is so excited for the tooahhr. Tour to those of use who have a brain. Is she for real? Good song choice and good performance. HOWEVER, Syesha, you ain't no Tina or Beyonce trying to dance like Tina. No need to copy the moves!! This is not So You Think You Can Dance, it is American Idol. I think she was confused. And she is still tinny and screechy on the top notes. But yes, she has improved and goddamn it this girl is really trying. I give her props. EMERGENCY -- Syesha has caught the Brooke talking disease and she needs help STAT! "Simon I was just trying to have fun - I'm sorry" Shut it.

Jason -- "I Shot the Sheriff" Poor guy has social anxiety disorder or, maybe he is stoned? This is just not the competition for him. He is probably a decent guy and if I had a beach house I might invite him to sing in my backyard. However this is American Idol and he has got to take this more seriously. This is an opportunity to make millions of dollars and create a career and become famous and make any kind of music you want -- not to be goofy and play dumb all the time. I love that Simon called his performance "like the first round audition massacre." He always thinks everything is funny. If he really is excited and wants to be here, I feel sorry, but I just think he is making the show a joke.

David A -- "Stand By Me" Great song choice. This kid is adorable. Oh Gaspy, you like to sing in your room, to yourself, and to your dog? Is that when your Daddy locks you in there for only getting 3 and a half stars on Star Search? Okay, seriously, though, Jason could take some notes on how to express a love of performing, music and being on this show. Good arrangement. I liked how he added in the Sean Kingston version. As Randy said, HOT MAN VOCALS. That is my new phrase -- HOT MAN VOCALS! Do you think I could yell that out to the stage when I am in Nashville?

Can we give a high five to Ryan calling out Gaspy? Ryan told him he always looks like he's about to pass out. And Gaspy said the judges faces scare him. Maybe it is actually his Dad's face in the audience that scares him...

ROUND 2
David Cook -- "Baba O'Reilly" No other contestant could even attempt The Who (and I don't know what the title of the song is so sorry if what I wrote above is retarded -- but hey, now I know how to spell retarded!!) I really like this song so for me he wins. Gets to show his range and look cool. He is effortless. Song is over and I am worried -- he looks really stressed out. Was it just him being hard on himself from the first song? Simon gives him his confidence -- Welcome Back David Cook. Why is he sighing? Come on David, you are the best - don't worry!

Syesha -- "A Change is Gonna Come" No she did not compare her getting to the Top 4 to the civil rights movement (it gets worse later). I can talk about a change that needs to come -- her out of that dress. Good singing, but why is she so dramatic? Clutching her stomach, making a fist, furrowing her brow. I couldn't stop staring at the gold flecks in her lip gloss -- cool! Then Paula made her cry and Simon agreed with Paula and then, and then, she did it. Syesha compared the change in herself over the past few weeks to the change that the song called for in the civil rights movement. I can't buy this. And then she said CRAP on national TV. Oh the back and forth -- and the Brooke disease -- MOVE ON people!

Side note - she sang well and once again she is fighting. But I don't like her and will never buy her album.

Jason Castro -- "Mr Tambourine Man" He started out great -- really good choice, good energy, nice guitar playing. AND THEN HE CAUGHT BROOKE DISEASE! A different one where you forget the words. This guy has got to get it together. Weird moment showing Carly clapping for him with the most serious look on her face -- and Simon was watching Carly do that. Was she feeling bad and supportive of him or was part of her being like "Really, this guy is still here and I was kicked off?" Then Simon said, "Jason, I'd pack your suitcase." I have some other reality TV words to add to that -- "Auf Wiedesen" "Pack Your Knives and Go" "The Tribe Has Spoken" In other words... BUH BYE, BUH BYE, BUH BYE, BUH BYE and BUH BYE!

David A -- "Love Me Tender" Good IPOD commercial to start it off. I love his eyelashes. Especially when his eyes are closed. Very good performance. He is really methodical in every note and choice he makes. He does not have the effortless quality of David Cook -- probably an age thing. But really sweet singing and he should definitely keep going. Randy didn't say HOT MAN VOCALS this time just HOT VOCALS, but Simon did say that David A CRUSHED THE COMPETITION! Wow. Too bad that David and David weren't separated by Syesha and Jason -- I think Simon blocked out David Cook when he was trying to block out Jason.

I didn't realize how little David A is -- he is a lot shorter than Ryan. And anyone else notice once again that the recaps are from the rehearsal? Because they do not always match the actual versions we see. Case in point Gaspy's ending.

Okay, so overall, pretty boring week. How did I vote, you ask? 20 times for David Cook. What do I think will happen? Castro and his dreads are sent to the sidewalk. Please, Idol Gods (Nigel Lythgoe and Simon Fuller) get rid of him!!! But Bo and his long hair will be there tomorrow.

More on that tomorrow folks. Until then,

Don't be ashamed of your obsessions...