Some shout outs and Group 2 of 12

Let me start with some non-Idol shout outs. LOST is amazing -- I was blown away by last season and now this season is keeping me on the edge of my seat. Even with the twists and turns, it makes sense -- it all makes sense and I am following the storyline eagerly awaiting the next twist. Jack was always my favorite character so seeing him lead the trek back to the Island, love it. Also, 24 is having a terrific season. I know a lot of people gave up on Jack Bauer but this series has completely redeemed itself by sticking to what it does best -- build strong characters and bring you in to follow all the emotional choices they make while blowing you away with action. The scene with Jack and Tony on the steps in DC after thinking mission was accomplished and realizing it was still not over -- genius. And FNL -- my god. I had lost all interest in Jason Street and now his good bye set-up is the most intriguing storyline the character has had. And the utter pain in Saracen's eyes when he gets demoted to QB2? Unbelievable. Lastly, ER -- if you haven't been watching TUNE IN. It is the last season and John Carter just came back who was the original character at the heart of the show and in one gut wrenching scene at the end of the last episode, every amazing thing about this show and his character was brought to life. So emotional. After everything, John Carter, the man who wanted nothing but to heal, has cancer. WOW.

Okay, now to Idol. Once again, song choice is making or breaking almost every contestant (and then there is one who is being broken by his potentially psycho personality). Quick note on last week's results -- Alexis and Danny make it through as I expected. Wild card went to Michael Sarver instead of Anoop (I said it was between the two of them) but I am not worried, because I really feel Anoop will get a wild card spot especially based on tonight's performances. Last week was about a lot of guys for me, and this week seems to be girl's week...

Jasmine Murray -- "Love Song" She had been set up to do really well in weeks prior, but wow what a disappointment. Bad song choice and showed a lack of personality. BUH BYE

Matt Giraud -- "Viva La Vida" Another one I had high hopes for. But yikes. To go from soul singing to a non-vocal prowess type of song. I mean Chris Martin is not a singer's singer. He is about the lyric and beat and expression and this guy seemed so uncomfortable singing that song. I still want him, so I'm giving him an OK

Jeanine - "This Love" Never saw her before and never need to see her again. And note to all contestants DO NOT BEG. BUH BYE

Nick / Norman -- "You're Gonna Love Me" Look I think this guy is entertaining, and he is certainly making a place for himself at the finale show. However, there is something sad about the fact that he can't decide which personality he wants to be. And he definitely has the ability to sing. But it is like he is so scared to make it through and show off his vocal talent that he actually hides behind this persona and purposefully ruins his vocals. I am actually a little scared of him and if he continues on, he is being allowed to make a mockery of the competition which is a singing competition not an entertainer competition. BUH BYE

Allison Irahita -- "Alone" I didn't really remember her audition and during her interview I was scared as hell of her. I wrote down "no personality." And then she sang. Alone is one of my favorite songs and it is done many times on Idol. Carrie's version was of course the stand out. However with her raspy voice and edgier personality, Allison hit the song on the head. Right on VOTE

Kris Allen -- "Man in the Mirror" So I spent most of the performance singing along because I love this song but then I got stuck because I couldn't figure out if the words were "I'm talking to the man in the mirror, I'm asking him to change his ways. And no message COULD A MAN HAD A CLIVER? COULD A MAN HAND DELIVER? until I realized it was COULD HAVE BEEN ANY CLEARER. So then I had to rewind and re-watch to pay attention to the cute Kris Allen. He wasn't the best, but I liked him. And considering I didn't remember him much from before, his song choice actually made an impression. Not sure if he can stand up against the girls tonight to get a spot, but I'm into him for maybe a wild card? Glad that Simon was into him even if that meant agreeing with Paula. OK or VOTE once or twice

Megan Corkery -- "Put Your Records On" I loved her audition and have been singing Can't Help Loving that Man around the house A LOT. She is a pretty, personable girl with a big distinct voice. It isn't perfect but it is SO interesting. I would love to see her and Alexis go up against each other. I'm a little worried that weird theme weeks will be hard for her, but I want to see her again. Oh and love that Randy made a new phrase -- "You're definitely drop dead." He meant drop dead gorgeous, but dog doesn't need to say the last word. He can end the phrase wherever he wants to. VOTE

Matt -- "If you could only see" Cannot deal with the slow bounce up and down and dancing. He is not rock enough for the song. Feels like a frat party performance. He has an okay voice, but he comes across poorly on camera. Are they not dressing them yet? Those relaxed fit jeans were terrible. My god what was he leaving room for? He is very similar (but worse) to Michael Sarver, so he does not need to make it through. BUH BYE

Jesse Langseth -- "Bette Davis Eyes" I'm torn on her. I like her cool quality and was impressed with her confidence. I liked her vocal but I'm not sure if she can stand up to Allison or even Meghan this week. And look, I always have a lot to say, but she did too, and that turned me off a little. VOTE ( I watched her again and liked the tone of her voice a lot)

Kai Kalama -- "What becomes of the Broken Hearted" Now here is a guy with a cool look that did a bland song. Ehh. Would rather see the wild card spot go to one of the girls from this week or Anoop from last week. BUH BYE

Mishavonna Henson -- "Drops of Jupiter" One of my favorite songs. And she made it her own. Strong vocals, confidence, but the ending weirded me out - a bit of a musical theater ending, and then the judges kind of convinced me that it wasn't so great. If she had been in last week's group, she might have garnered some more votes, but there were too many good girls. Torn, just going to give her an OK

Adam Lambert -- "Satisfaction" My second favorite male this season (behind Danny) going into the top 36. And they gave him the last spot of the night, so they must like him too. He is infectious. I was smirking along. And he put his amazing voice all over that song. Never thought of great vocals with Mick Jagger just distinct ones, but he turned it around. He can sing higher than any girl but doesn't make it sound girly -- he has the nicest scream ever. Crazy. So professional. Slam dunk. VOTE OVER AND OVER AND OVER.

Round-up? Top Guy? ADAM Top Girl? ALLISON Next Top Vote Getter? Megan, Jesse or Kris -- I am probably rooting for Megan over the other two...

Yowzers, gotta watch finale of Top Chef everyone, but remember...
don't be ashamed of your obsessions...

The Oscars - will my people rule?

So we have been hearing all about the new format -- first of all, I love how close everyone is to the stage. Hugh Jackman looks lovely and he is really debonair. And the dance number? Come on. Who knew Anne Hathaway could sing? I love that he cracked himself up during the Reader dance / song. Jackman has a great voice. Overall, I loved the opening -- such great energy with the audience so close.

So the Supporting Actress Category is first and the new format has 5 previous winners presenting together. Each woman gives a tribute speech to a nominee instead of clips. Very touching. Except when Goldie Hawn's face came onscreen -- she needed some help from the Benjamin Button effects folks. I'd like to see Penelope win this and she does. She is stunning in her vintage Balmain gown. And what a lovely speech.

Original Screenplay intro is great with Tina Fey and Steve Martin reading the screenplay notes. Tina looks amazing. Milk wins for Original Screenplay. Sean Penn is so proud.

Animated Film Long and Short are presented by Jennifer Aniston and Jack Black so that she can't possibly cross paths with Brad and Angelina. Jennifer was pretty and funny. But she might as well have presented to Brad and Angelina since the producers scanned to Angelina and then Brad and Angelina (still counting if they do it again) -- cheap and stupid. Negative points for that. Wall-E wins for Animated Film.

SJP and Daniel Craig come out to present Production Design. I think she is getting a little old to wear these frothy confections. Art Direction goes to Benjamin Button. Then they present Costume Design which goes to The Duchess. Then Make-up (I like the multiple categories presented by a couple to move things along) which goes to Benjamin Button.

Ben Stiller came out as Joaquin Phoenix with Natalie Portman. I personally think the Joaquin thing is an act for a documentary Casey Affleck is making and can't wait to see it. They present Cinematography which goes to Slumdog. I know there has been a lot of talk about Slumdog and whether the film is about winning money = happiness, and I just want to put in my two cents that it isn't. It is about the relationships we make in life and the choices we make in life and where they lead us. And set against the vibrancy of India, the contrasts of wealth and poverty, of joy and gloom, of silence and sound -- this is what makes the film so well done.

Jessica Biel comes out -- the dress is pretty up top, but horrible waist down. The look is very sloppy and ill fitting. Well, at least she has Justin.

How do we feel about the theme re-caps of the year? I wasn't feeling the animated one or the romance ones, but the comedy re-cap by Judd Apatow starring James Franco and Seth Rogan is really funny. The cinematographer of Schindler's List leaning on Seth? Great.

The musical spectacular -- honoring movie musicals. So smart to bring Beyonce out to make it feel fresh. And then the touch of Amanda Seyfried / Dominic Cooper plus Zac and Vanessa who starred in the two top movie musicals of the year. It gives Hugh a way to show off. Look I love a musical number so this was fun to me (I saw on facebook that some people aren't fans). And they were all taken out of their element, not just performing what they performed in their respective films. Oh and Baz Luhrmann created that number? I love him (even though I never saw Australia - is it out on DVD soon?)

Now time for Supporting Actor -- Joel Grey, Alan Arkin, Kevin Kline, Christopher Walken and Cuba Gooding Jr -- who is Cuba's publicist? Because getting him onto that stage with these other men, job well done. Did Alan Arkin call Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Seymour? John Mayer / Jennifer Aniston sighting. And then Kevin Kline delivers the nomination to Heath Ledger who wins. His family accepts on his behalf with grace and the touching flashes to the audience were well done.

Bill Maher comes out to present documentary and proves why the comedian as host thing was failing. Don't let a man present who is obviously pissed that he wasn't nominated. Love the winner balancing the Oscar on his chin -- those are moments you can't script.

Tom Cruise / Jimmy Kimmel commercial was funny.

So now I understand the order of the awards starts with screenplay to production to post-production. I had read that they were going to "tell a story" with the show. I don't think it is really necessary to try to tie the awards together, but nice attempt.

So I guess Will Smith was a surprise since he wasn't on the carpet -- big surprise (was there a need to hide him?) Benjamin Button wins for Visual effects. I don't like when the one member of the team who is nominated to give the acceptance speech includes his personal thanks to his wife and family and not anyone else's -- selfish. Sound Effects goes to The Dark Knight. Sound Mixing goes to Slumdog -- and Resul Pookutty - what a name. Film Editing goes to Slumdog again. Sweep?

Eddie Murphy comes out to present an award to Jerry Lewis. Ugggh this is getting so long now. This is why they could have cut out those clips about each film type. Really Coldplay playing in the background of a Jerry Lewis reel? I have to say, they did actually keep the tribute reel pretty quick, but now let's see how long his speech goes. Oh, he kept it short and sweet too. Okay, not bad.

Getting lots of feedback from people that they don't like the show...I actually don't mind it that much. Sure they could have cut out about 30 minutes so far...I hope they don't rush the end awards which are of course the most interesting. But I thought they made some good progress in trying to move things along. And considering I am watching live with no DVR help, that is saying a lot. Okay, but maybe I should stop writing about how long it is going or this blog entry is going to win the Oscar for longest blog on the Oscars of 2009.

And just when I was giving the producer's points they do the stupid score performance -- if you didn't bother to show clips of the acting categories, why is it necessary to bore everyone with a re-cap on the scores? Just give out the award -- especially when you already did a musical medley. Alicia Keyes and Zac Efrom turn AR Rahman's name into some sort of Russian / Hebrew name. It is Rahman like Ramen noodles. He is cute. Then he performs his song -- ummm why are the dancers not all Indian? No need to be racially diverse when there is finally an Indian film. Thank you. Bruce Springsteen's song should have been nominated. Why didn't Peter Gabriel get to perform?

Freida Pinto is stunning in the blue Dior dress.

Is this the Oscars or the Grammy's? Another musical moment with Queen Latifah? I hate In Memorium -- another unnecessary moment.

Reese breathes life into the program with a great dress but terrible hair and make-up. But energy and lightness in her speech. She presents Director and I'm pretty sure who will win. Danny Boyle? Yep, Danny Boyle it is. I wish the Oscars were the only awards given out so this wouldn't have felt so pre-determined. But then his acceptance at Tigger was genius and love his shout out to the program itself.

So now we get to Best Actress. Please don't let this be the one upset or surprise of the night - PLEASE! The Five women are Sophia Lauren, Shirley Maclaine, Halle Berry, Nicole Kidman and Marion Cotillard. Excited to see what Nicole wears...This feels so elegant. Oh Nic is all sparkly and fresh. Why is Anne Hathaway screaming?? Wow these speeches are great. They are personal and touching. Halle looks amazing. Wow Sophia Loren is not fresh and sparkly at all. And the Oscar goes to -- Kate Winslet -- YES YES YES This was all I wanted to see all night. Brilliant.

Michael Douglas, Sir Ben Kingsley, Anthony Hopkins (isn't he a Sir too?), Adrien Brody and Robert DeNiro assemble to present to the Best Actor nominees. DeNiro was great and Robin Wright Penn is just gorgeous as always. Nice speech by Adrien Brody to Richard Jenkins. LOVE that Anthony Hopkins presents to Brad Pitt because Legends of the Fall is one of my favorite films of all time. I still laugh when I see Mickey Rourke. Sean Penn wins and I think Robin had to grab him to kiss him which felt awkward. Best speech of the night but no comment to his family. Is he a jerk?

And now to Best Picture. Spielberg presents and finally there are clips but interspersed with clips of other films. Not necessary. And the Oscar goes to Slumdog Millionaire -- how could it not, right?

Well it was a long night. I give positive points to Hugh Jackman, the close audience and the past winners presenting to the acting categories but negative points to still leaving in an extra 30-40 minutes and the overload of music.

Whew, onto a new year of films to judge (although I have a bunch of DVD's to still rent from this year's lot). Good night folks.

Remember, don't be ashamed of your obsessions...

IDOL FIRST 12 of 36

Hi everyone -- it is that time again for my opinion on everything Idol. I'll throw in other pop culture moments but during fashion week when my brain is spinning, Idol is all I can indulge in. To remind my faithful readers, here is the judging system. VOTE means this contestant needs to get through (and probably got multiple votes from me), OK means I can tolerate the contestant moving on and will leave final judgement for later and BUH BYE means exactly that.

I'm very nervous because there are a lot of great contestants in Group 1 so to have only 3 move forward is scary. But let's see what they do first...

Jackie Tohn -- "A Little Less Conversation" She wore her black spandex leggings polka dot bustier outfit which showed her personality. I have to agree with the judges that she showed personality over vocals, although I do think she can sing. And she showed she can be modern by changing around the song. Felt a little Katy Perry to me. But by the end of the performance I was agreeing with Simon -- that's enough with the act. Did not get chills. OK

Ricky Braddy -- Not sure of the title, but we have definitely heard lots of contestants sing this. However, I don't think we have ever seen this contestant before which doesn't help him at all. Maybe Jackie's strategy was smart, because this is a little boring. He has a really good voice and the judges loved it which may help him shine in the voters eyes. Once again, agree with Simon that he doesn't have star quality. OK

NOTE -- no need to have the parents on. Waste of time. And no need to remind voters of your phone number by raising your fingers.

Alexis Grace -- "Never Loved a Man" Love the way she dirtied up her look - very well done. She has this Duffy thing tonight. Good song choice. She is such a little person and has a big voice. Simon compared her to Kelly Clarkson which is a huge vote of confidence. VOTE

Brent Keith -- We got a nice live moment with the tape not working -- I love this kind of thing and Ryan is good at dealing. "Hicktown" Great song by Jason Aldean. Brent was a contestant on Nashville Star so country is definitely his genre. Very mimicky performance like what I've seen at bars in Nashville. Nothing new and he doesn't have the rough quality needed for this song. Of course I would like to see some country on the show, but I say BUH BYE. Did like his rebuttal that country fans won't forget that -- but unfortunately Brent, that is because country fans are not at a very high critical level.

Stevie Wright -- "You Belong with Me" by Taylor Swift. Felt so wrong for her. You don't have to pick a song by an 18 year old to seem younger. Key was all over the place. Maybe no one can sing Taylor Swift songs on key, including herself. Felt the nerves. Yikes, it was terrible. I hope the judges don't crucify her -- well they were all trying to be nice but Simon of course did not mince words. I have to agree, BUH BYE. I would lose it if this had been me so she is a strong girl.

Anoop Desai -- "Angel of Mine" Interesting song choice and I am not just saying this because he is one of my peeps, but I really like him. Didn't do the best vocal, but still surprised me and I want to hear what else will come from him. I'm glad the judges are behind him and crossing my fingers the year of the Indian will propel him through. VOTE

Casey Carlson -- "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic" Has a perfect look to be a star. Does not need a makeover. But needs a movement / facial expression makeover. Too sweet of a voice for a rock song by the Police. She should have done Taylor. Did not like that and either did the judges. BUH BYE

Michael Sarver -- "I Don't Wanna Be" I have high hopes for him...loved it from the first hmmm. He will look back and hate the shirt choice, but great energy. He is so nervous. Simon wants America to vote him through... VOTE

Annemarie Boskovich -- "Natural Woman" I never understood why the judges made her change in her auditions. She is a pretty girl. She has a clear strong voice, a little sweet for this song. Kind of Celine Dionish. Now I think the judges wished they had asked her to change something else besides her look. OK

Steven Fowler -- "Rock With You" I wanted Jamar to get in over him, so I have high expectations. It feels so old school. And he has no dance moves so why bother doing this kind of song. The long held note was not very good either. Wow the judges really hated it. BUH BYE

Tatiana del Toro -- I am SCARED of her. "Saving All My Love For You" Wow big song to take on. The least likeable person may have a really great voice. Very in control. Sounds kind of old but really good. She looks kind of angry though. Oh man, I am laughing because she is not getting a BUH BYE. WOW, she does not get a vote, but she redeemed herself. And Kara hit the nail on the head -- who is this girl? OK but she better not usurp Alexis Grace (okay but then on the couch, she once again proved she is nuts)

Danny Gokey -- "Hero" My all around favorite so far. Love that he is a Church Music Director! So excited to hear him. He just has natural grit in his voice. Will be downloading every song he sings. He didn't rush himself and just caressed each note. I love him already. Kara loves him, loves him Jamar is so PROUD!!! I kind of like that Simon isn't going crazy even though it is absolutely 100% percent true that this guy should be in the final 2. But we remember what happened to early favorites Carly and Michael Johns...VOTE VOTE VOTE.

Alexis, Anoop, Michael, Danny get the VOTE and 3 get to make it through...Alexis wins for Female vote, Danny for Male vote and then Anoop or Michael get next highest. So it wasn't as tough of a decision as I thought. A lot of people chose the wrong song and I am glad to not have to listen to them again. But man, if only Danny could sing every week or every day to me...

Great episode to get the juices flowing.

Keep your heads up my fashion flock and remember,
don't be ashamed of your obsessions...

FINALLY the Friday Night Lights Lowdown plus Grammy's Live

So I have finally caught up on Friday Night Lights. And maybe watching four episodes in a row got me overly emotional, but this is the best show on television. It has something for everyone -- sports action, family drama, hot guys, hot girls but most importantly, phenomenal acting.

My overall thoughts on the start of the season -- they are focusing on the strength of the show-- the fact that Coach Taylor is the best coach ever. That is what makes him a success -- not the state win or the superstar players, but the best coaching. That is why Father McCoy brought his young superstar qb JD to Dillon -- he wanted Taylor to coach him.

Love the way they are bringing Smash's storyline to an end -- the squash game with him and Coach Taylor, arranged so Taylor could convince him that his knee is okay was so well played. Then the conversation with his mother where he didn't want her to work a second job to get him through college. She said "I am your mother. This is my job." So good. And of course the thank you speech to coach. Taylor was still trying to give Smash advice after securing the boy a college career and Smash just stopped him -- I wanted to thank you. I was bawling like a baby.

And of course the relationship between Coach Taylor and his wife who is now the principal. They are so on equal playing fields in their relationship which is so refreshing. Best quote was when he said to her "I miss the coach's wife." And she replied back "And I can't wait to meet the principal's husband." Such an interesting juxtaposition of roles between the two of them.

And even though Taylor is worried about dropping Saracen as QB for the better talent, JD McCoy, he realizes that he needs to be a coach to all. So the scene when he decides to finally pay attention to JD -- shows again what an amazing coach he is.

Let's talk Saracen. Man, this kid a is a great actor. He shows so much emotion through his face and dialogue -- the nervous stutters, the sideways glances. He broke my heart telling his mother that she couldn't re-enter his life, while still politely thanking her for helping out. And you feel his angst at losing his QB1 spot senior year. But he doesn't have the courage to fight for what he deserves -- he plays his butt off only to drop the ball in the end zone. Devastating.

I realized how important the coach role is in the show -- these boys don't have fathers -- Smash, Saracen, Riggins -- in this football town, the coach is everything to these boys in their quest to achieve manhood. I can't comment a lot on Riggins because my mouth is still on the floor from watching 4 hours of him. I love him and I love him with Lila -- he is a good man, but he always gets dragged down by those around him.

So now I guess will be the storyline that leads to the end of Jason Street on the show. But it's okay -- I mean, the show could be like ER -- excellent plot and acting with new talent coming in and going out. They can't make them stay in high school forever. Can't wait til next Friday. I'll be in Dillon.

Grammy's live -- I'm usually not a big fan of this show, but I'm having high hopes this year. Finger's crossed.
I'm going to jot thoughts down as they come to me.
U2 opens -- they rock, they really rock. But I don't understand the song. If someone can explain, get on your boots, please do.

Whitney looks amazing and nice shout out to Clive. He is a legend. Jennifer Hudson wins - I love that she still thanks god -- after all the shit she has been through. WOW. And she looks like a superstar.

Boyz II Men, Keith Urban , JT and Al Green. I mean, how cool is Keith? He is a super guitar player, so everyone wants to perform with him. But was the performance for JT to perform or Al Green? He was kind of hogging.

So the theme is new pairings -- some work -- Coldplay with Jay Z, but I am not looking forward to Taylor and Miley. Neither can sing live and I hate that Taylor is lowering herself to Miley levels. I'm scared. Let's get back to the Coldplay performance. What is he wearing? I know, they are super talented and this will be their year at the Grammy's. Honestly, though, sometimes I don't understand their songs. I admit it. Did Gwyneth come with him? They don't go to anything together. I guess we will see.

Keith introduces Carrie. He looks so good. I thought her backup singers were too loud. Didn't love her dress / shorts thing, but at least she takes risks now.

Sugarland wins -- for all the fashion world who would not, could not help me dress her -- come on -- look at her. She looks amazing. Go Gillian -- you did an awesome job!

I can't believe I am saying this, but I love Kid Rock. He is really talented. And wearing the black suit? Not trashy at all - kind of hot.

OK I'm am smiling at the Taylor, Miley performance -- this is Taylor's song When You're Fifteen. Perfect choice for them with the young talent. Not perfectly done, but sweet and good for their age. And I was kind of surprised by Miley's voice?!? Taylor stayed sweet and Miley did her twang. If I was still 15 and I heard this song, I would so relate. Really sweet. Well done, girls. Then Miley started talking and I hated her again.

Already crying at the first note of Jennifer Hudson. Oh my god. Amazing. Nicole Kidman was crying too.

I am fast forwarding over Jonas Brothers. Can't believe they are nominated for Best New Artist after 3 albums oh and since they are dumb. So they sing with Stevie Wonder. HATE them.

Is this the Paul McCartney Grammys? What is going on? Everyone is thanking him or mentioning him.

I like Katy Perry - she is fun and has a good voice and I am into rocker girls right now like her and Pink and Kelly Clarkson...

Kanye has a Michael Jackson Off the Wall hairdo and outfit -- so funny!!

Who has the Adele album -- should I get it? She is so sweet and real. Love it.

How did Kenny Chesney and Morgan Freeman become friends? Seriously?

Love the idea of the rap pack. But MIA's outfit? Really? Is she one of my peeps? As Amy described it -- Minnie Mouse threads on a 10 month pregnant woman... But love the black and white filming. And Jay Z is the king. For sure. But TI was rocking that tux shirt and tie. He is fine. You know Will.I.am was pissed he wasn't invited.

Okay so Paul McCartney finally performs. He has a good dye job. Performance was good, I guess I'm supposed to say great. Whatever.

HERE comes Jennifer Nettles and Adele. STAY. Still one of the best written songs ever. Every word, perfectly crafted and then her clear, lilting voice emoting every feeling. And she showed the believe tattoo.

Aha - Gwyneth is there. And she loves showing off her Tracey Anderson, cleansed bod.

Oh and Justin shows up again -- he is ubiquitous and it isn't necessary? I need to miss him a little.

No, the president of the Recording Arts DID NOT usurp Obama's Yes We Can.

Jamie Foxx and the Four Tops. This is getting ridiculous. Why can't we just honor today's music. Oh but I do love Ne Yo. He is my new friend.

Neil Diamond -- really? Why do they do these OLD, OLD, OLD re-dos? We get to see them on Idol - isn't that enough?

But then the BB King, Keith Urban, John Mayer combo redeemed the night. Keith looks so much cooler than John and his weird faces.

Robin Thicke is smooth -- he totally looks like his Dad and that's okay with me. I just got schooled on how now rap is not a West Coast / East Coast thing but a North / South thing. Just in case anyone was wondering.

Well it looks like Robert Plant and Alison Krauss will win best album -- they seem to be setting it up that way with the finale performance. Fits the typical Grammy choices. It is a great album, but not in the zeitgeist. I'm using big words. Let's see. I am a true predictor of things. For those of you who don't know Alison -- she is one of the most respected singers, songwriters and performers of bluegrass who has been doing amazing collaborations. Still I'm sure Coldplay was disappointed. Nice seeing Green Day!

And that is the end of this year's Grammys. It was a long show but actually pretty entertaining. So remember all...

don't be ashamed of your obsessions...