The Emmy's

Group watching the Emmy's is looking to be a great idea. Lame opening with Jane Lynch is making me nervous until she hits Mad Men set. And a big cheer for the FNL locker room scene. The metallic dress is a miss for sure and then she gets lifted in the air by the dancers. When she was put down, she pulled up her spanx. Yikes.

The opening monologue was much better and then the little choir was still to be judged. Comedy clips finally got us laughing.

Kimmel and Fallon were good.

Supporting Actress Comedy -- My win, Sofia Vergara. Curve ball win to Julie Bowen. She was not prepared to win at all. Her chest looks horrific, an accident waiting to happen.

Julianna Margulies - I like the space dress, which is strange, but I stand by it.

Supporting Actor Comedy -- My win, Ty Burrell. And he wins. Great speech mix of comedy and emotion. Well done.

Brad Pitt looks really old in the preview for his movie. Wow.

Ricky Gervais does a great bit with an edited speech. He always makes me laugh. Modern Family wins for Director -- what a weird category. Does anyone really care? And then they win for writing. I love Zooey Deschanel and I liked her dress, someone in the room had an opinion about the belt, but I say it is all a good, messy chic.

Charlie Sheen is at the Emmy's. Wow, this is going to be interesting.

Calvin Klein ad from last year is playing again. Umm, haven't the collections changed?

"Welcome back to the Modern Family Awards." Good line Jane.

Charlie Sheen comes out to present Lead Actor Comedy. "From the bottom of my heart, I wish you nothing but the best for the upcoming season." Wow, that felt weird. Come on Steve Carell. Stupid Jim Parsons won. He should be embarrassed. Uggh, Jim Parsons now joins Mariska Hargitay, Kyra Sedgewick and Edie Falco in my most hated winners category.

Sofia Vergara looks gorgeous - really gorgeous.

Best category was Lead Actress in a Comedy -- each of the ladies got up on the stage -- Amy Poehler, Tina Fey, Martha Plimpton (looking amazing), Melissa McCarthy and Laura Linney looking incredibly chic and modern in her short black dress. My win, Amy Poehler but Melissa McCarthy wins maybe for Bridesmaids. I'm okay with that because I loved her in Gilmore Girls too. But she can't win again.

The bit in the Office was good. Ashton showing up to take over Steve Carrell.

Competitive Reality -- My win, this year definitely Idol. But... Amazing Race won, again. So dumb. Might as well get rid of this category.

Variety / Talk Show -- Daily Show wins.

Lonely Island compilation was hysterical. Michael Bolton, Ed Helms, John Stamos, Maya Rudolph - funny.

Lea Michele bugs me. There, I said it. I love her singing, love her performance, but something bothers me.

Jane Lynch second dress loses too. Billy and I say, modern tux would have been better.

Anna Paquin (who was 9 in the Piano and won the Oscar at 11 in case you wanted to know since the people in this room had a lot of opinions about this) looked good - I like that she wears black a lot.

Jon Cryer and Ashton Kutcher come out to present. Writing for a Drama -- My win, Friday Night Lights and it WINS!! Jason Katims - WOW, I am so happy. Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can't Lose! So happy.

Supporting Actress in a Drama -- My win, Archie Panjabi, but someone from Justified won, which is fine. She couldn't walk up the stairs, but it was sweet that everyone went to help her.

Why did the Emmy producers think it was a good plan to make an instrumental version of Pumped Up Kicks? It is so not okay and Foster the People should sue them.

Loretta Devine needs to purchase a bra. Right away. What show is the Dr Surgeon from ER on now? Directing for a Drama -- I don't watch any of these shows at all. Scorcese wins for Boardwalk Emprie and gives the longest speech like it was for his first Oscar.

Kerry Washington is too skinny.

Supporting Actor, Drama -- My win, Alan Cumming, but I'm open. They lowered the mic for Peter Dinklage. I'm fine for him to win as long as the show doesn't.

Katie Holmes looks good. One of my top picks.

Best Actress, Drama -- My win, of course Connie Britton. But I am a Julianna fan so I understand if she wins, which she does. Connie -- can't wait for the new show.

Minka Kelly looks great - Jeter should have held on to that.

Best Actor, Drama -- My win is of course Kyle Chandler -- COACH WINS IT!!! I love him. Wow, humble, amazing. I know he didn't thank Connie Britton, but at the end he held out the Emmy to her. Wow, amazing. I love him so much. Minka was so happy for him. Uggh I miss that show.

LL Cool J just joined the Emmytunes. That was crazy. Ladies Love.

Entourage guys come out and act like they are so cool. Turtle looks a lot better after losing the weight.

Amy Poehler and Melissa McCarthy come out to present and are super funny. I love that women

Why did the Canadian Tenors perform Hallelujah? More importantly, who are the Canadian Tenors?

Anna Torv from Fringe liked the Canadian Tenors. But she looked beautiful. Guy Pierce, for geez shut it already.

Claire Danes has a good dress. Kate Winslet - you can't be this excited about winning an Emmy. Mildred Pierce was not Titanic. Taraji P Henson was so angry, I thought she was going to start screaming at Kate Winslet. Kate Winslet is going for the EGOT -- Emmy, check, Grammy, Check (for a spoken word), Oscar check, Tony can totally happen soon.

Stop the Calvin Klein ads.

Maria Bello looks good. Good dress choice. As Billy says, "I'm not mad at her."

Mad Men wins Best Drama -- I'm okay with that. It was the best season of Mad Men for sure, and FNL did finally get nominated.

Jane Lynch last dress was actually okay.

Gwyneth gets to present Best Comedy -- why? My win, Parks and Rec but Modern Family wins which is just as good. The nerdy teen girl is major hotness now.

Room decisions:

Best dressed:

Sofia Vergara

Minka Kelly

Laura Linney

Anna Torv

Archie Panjabi

Best dressed guys:

Jon Hamm

Kyle Chandler

That's all folks -- and now the new TV season begins. Start programming your DVR's!

Don't be ashamed of your obsessions, clear eyes, full hearts can't lose.

This old lady decided to watch the VMA's

Since Irene allowed me to catch up on everything on my DVR, I am watching the VMA's live. And I decided to watch because with the year of Adele and Gaga, surprise JayZ / Kanye performance and maybe some fun Beyonce / Katy Perry, the old lady felt like she actually knew enough of the performers. And I have to admit I had to see how MTV was going to give a tribute to Britney Spears.

Gaga opens the show looking like Pony Boy from the Outsiders (was that Ralph Macchio because that is who I mean). Weird monologue to open, but the performance was great. Simple reason why -- she is actually singing, live and well. Shocker! (Not a Gaga shocker, but a VMA shocker).

No host this year is a HUGE plus for me. But then someone named Kevin came out - I don't know who he is, but his stand up was terrible. Made me want to fast forward but I was watching live. Uggh.

Really, Britney beats Adele and Katy Perry for best Pop Video? Well these awards don't actually mean anything anyway since MTV doesn't actually play videos. Why isn't Amber from Teen Mom getting an award?

Jessie J from the "house band" is wearing a huge cast boot on her foot. That stinks. You get this opportunity and you have to just sit there. Well her voice is good.

Brad Pitt movie looks good -- wow he is a Robert Redford look a like - especially with the wrinkles now.

Now I finally know what song Nicky Minaj sings. They don't play that song in Nashville. Uh oh, I liked the Footloose trailer. Problem.

Jay Z and Kanye perform -- not a great performance, but I love the album so I was just psyched to see something from it. Yup, have been listening to this album a lot. I know, seems out of my zone, but I got both country and hip hop are from the people.

Katy Perry needs to stop wearing costumes and wear fashion.

Paul Rudd did a fun bit with some big rapper guy that I have never heard of. It was funny but I felt dumb because i don't know him. They introduced Pitbull / Neyo and some woman that was wearing a nude stocking that I did not recognize. I like Neyo. I forgot. Kim Kardashian was singing along in the audience. Uggh can't stand her.

Katy comes out in a purple lace gown but it is still tacky tacky. Wow her waist is teeny. Introduces Adele. I can't believe this woman is only 21. What an old soul. My favorite song. Someone Like You. She is so gorgeous and her voice is just amazing. I love her.

Uggh Kim Kardashian comes out. Blecch. Blah blah blah male video. Bieber won over Kanye, Eminem and Bruno Mars? Blecch.

Thank god Joe Jonas and Victorious girl came out after that. Seeing them made me feel better about Bieber's win.

Time for a Chris Brown dance off! Any punching moves planned in the choreography? Kanye is standing for this. Isn't he Rihanna's friend? Is this his third or fourth shot to try to make a comeback? This is better than Spiderman. Which I did not see, but I assume.

Gaga does tribute to Britney -- well gives the speech. Little girls get up and do a dance tribute to her. Very cute. Are we about to see another kiss on MTV? Britney is really tall next to Gaga. So no, kiss. But a simple thank you and an intro to Beyonce. Who announced on the carpet that she is preggers. Pop Rap royalty. So no major dance number expected. But she really sang it out. And then exposed the belly. Kanye was super happy for his man Jay. It was a nice family moment.

Someone I don't know wins Best New Artist. I probably never will. And then a band called Young the Giant performs and I don't know them either. But they are jumping up an down and having fun, so that's cool. And the lead singer is Indian -- go Sameer Gadhia! (Thanks Google!)

Jersey Shore ladies come out and look freakish - tan, colors, sparkles and fake boobs. Crazy. This Gaga / Jo Calderone thing is geting old. Gaga wins female video for Born This Way and gives her "It Gets Better Speech." She is nuts.

DID YOU SEE PREVIEW FOR NEW RYAN MURPHY SHOW WITH DYLAN MCDERMOTT AND CONNIE BRITTON CALLED AMERICAN HORROR STORY? So intrigued!!

Russell Brand just read the blog he put out after Amy Winehouse died. It's a little weird since I read it a while ago. Tony Bennett comes out to pay tribute. He and Amy had just recorded a duet. She looks great while recording that. Bruno comes out to do Valerie. Great choice.

Saw preview for a movie Gwyneth dies in - I can watch that.

Katy Perry wins Video of the Year with Firework. I can see that. She is wearing a box on her head. Then L'il Wayne performs and I turn off the TV. Yikes, that was scary! Old lady needs to go to bed.

Don't be ashamed of your obsessions, or not caring about L'il Wayne.

FINALE

Here it goes!


Last JLo / STy Fashion Showdown: Look JLo: Nude beaded romper and super long hair. Look STy: White leather jacket metallic tank top, lots of necklaces. Again distracted by Randy's crazy white suit but I have to give the overall win to JLo because she gave me clothes, hair and body envy all season. She is in it to win it dawg!


Scotty and Lauren walk down the stairs and I have to say they make quite a cute pair -- could they be the next Tim McGraw and Faith Hill?


Repeat of Born This Way by the group. Wow, I didn't even remember one of the girls.


Idol contestants perform with their Idols. James with Judas Priest. Well he just got locked in his genre. But wow that voice is phenomenal. Just phenomenal.


Jacob gets to perform with a gospel singer Kurt Franklin and then GLADYS KNIGHT - how exciting for him! He is sweet and so in his element! Again very much keeping each finalist in his or her genre.


Casey sings with Jack Black. Fun rendition of Fat Bottomed Girls. Good energy and obviously Casey is more talented than Jack Black, but cute energy. I think that just made Casey's year and set him up as more than a singer.


Ryan promos Gladys's Vegas show and Jack Black's Kung Fu Panda 2. Love a promo on Idol.


Girls from Top 13 except Lauren come out to do a medley of Beyonce songs and Naima scares the bejeezus out of me. I love Haley so much. She and Pia kicked ass. And the girl whose name I can't remember too. Then Beyonce came out. Again, how amazing for these contestants. Beyonce is so major, summer of Beyonce is coming right at us.


Haley and Tony Bennett. So major. This girl is a pro, looked beautiful and is so talented. She is a star.


JLo video piece was so sweet and she was really touched by the audience reaction. How thankful she must be for this absolute world dominating comeback.


L'il John joined by 2 members of TLC (yup, one is dead) and then my worst nightmare. Karen, Thia, girl whose name I don't remember and Naima joined them. Uggh. That was so scary.


Scotty gets to sing with Tim McGraw (uh hello, didn't I just compare he and Lauren to Tim and Faith? WEIRD?). Tim McGraw looking absolutely fantastic right now. Amazing body, tan, insane. They duet on Live Like You Are Dying. Tim delivers a 10, Scotty a 7. He just can't sing as well. And the emotional delivery Tim gave was so much stronger.


Then Marc Anthony comes out to assert his star power and give us his Mambo Kings. And his Queen Bee JLo joined him with a sexy, gorgeous, insanely hot dance number. She is so crazy beautiful. She just earned her keep.


Top guys do a weird medley of Prince, Tom Jones, weird country song, and something Jacob sang. So cheesy and weird. I think these are all Tom Jones songs / covers. The girls got Beyonce and the guys get Tom Jones? The guys as a group are great though, they pulled off the cheese.


Scotty and Lauren get to honor their favorite teacher with a trip to the finale and a car. Scotty's teacher is hot and I am pretty sure that he asked her to make out with him in the back seat of the car.


Then cut to a performance by Gaga. I would bet money this was not live. Not a single live shot of audience reaction. I love this song and the commercial with it in it. So inspiring. Umm but then I realized it was live when I saw the audience reaction to the suicide pact ending moment. Yikes.


Lauren gets to sing with Carrie Underwood. Before He Cheats. She really holds her own and Carrie with her gorgeous legs is so gracious. So supportive and amazing. Yes.


So many cute videos with the Top 13. They have the best personalities this season. Casey especially. Pia still feels awkward.


Beyonce comes out to sing Make Love to Me. May not be the best song choice for Idol stage. But my god, how beautiful is she? We think it is a Lanvin dress. Her voice is flawless.


Special treat. Well you can't say no to Bono so Bono gets to promote the much hated Spiderman show. The Spiderman guy looks cute and singing with Bono makes him cooler. But I'm not going to pay money to see the show. Sorry Bono, I'll wear a RED t-shirt, but no Spiderman for me. The acrobat came out and landed near JLo for the upside down kiss and she chickened out.


New Zooey Deschanel show looks cute.


STEVEN TYLER hits the stage for Dream On. Outstanding. He is such a rock god. He hits the scream perfectly. So outstanding.


And now the moment of truth. Scotty looks handsome and Lauren looks so beautiful. Love their playfulness. She is so nervous.


Scotty wins it. Not my chosen outcome, but he is a sweet kid. He is an old old old soul. Going around and hugging every single person there. He is terrible singing the terrible song. In the words of Mark: He sounds like a dying cow.


My best wish for the season is that one year from now, we don't say "remember so and so?" "Where are they now?" I hope the top talents work with Jimmy Iovine and make the magic happen. Pia, Casey, James, Lauren and of course Haley -- looking forward to downloading those songs and buying those albums and seeing you all on that stage next year again.

Thanks to the judges. They did keep the show alive and thriving even with the loss of Cowell. And even though they need to learn how to judge better, JLo and Steven are keepers in my book. Randy? Well he is in the dawghouse this season. Ryan is one of the best hosts on television (besides Jeff Probst of Survivor).

Let's remember what this show is about. From thousands of unknowns, over the course of 5 months in the lives of American television viewers, young hopefuls get the chance to sing for their dream, to make a name for themselves, to experience fame, to meet their own Idols, to learn from the best, to share the stage with the best, all in the hopes of becoming the next American Idol. I still think that is pretty darn cool. So thank you Idol for 10 great years. See you next January.

And to my blog fans, we ain't done yet. Tomorrow a tribute to Oprah. Plus coming soon, Glee tribute blog as well as the legendary Friday Night Lights.

Don't be ashamed of your obsessions...even if you voted for Scotty. But don't tell me if you did.

Top 2 - brought to you thanks to Alana.

This is American Idol. And this is my life. My DVR has been freaking out and getting stuck every time I record something on channel 5 which just so happens to be the channel Idol is on. I have spent a ridiculous amount of time trying to watch the show illegally online and today just to be safe I had a back up plan. Idol moved nights this week and I didn't realize this until this weekend. I had planned to see a screening of The Hangover with friends and because even I don't want to seem as obsessed as I am, I decided to go even though Idol was on and watch when I came home. To be safe, I ran home, stuck a tape in the VCR (yes I still have one) and hit record on a 6 hour tape. So DVR or VCR wise, covered. Went to see The Hangover (funny), had a quick bite and came home.

Turned on TV, checked DVR, and yep, show didn't record -- it was listed, but it recorded from 8pm to 8pm. No worries, go to the VCR. Apparently, this faulty DVR triggered the whole channel to stop so all I had was Ryan's face at 8pm paused and stuck. What to do at 11:30pm? My unfortunate friend Alana had offered that if something went wrong I could go watch at her place and my Idol obsessed self took her up on it.

At 11pm, in sweats and a t-shirt, hair in a ponytail, I walked out of my apartment with my iPad to jump in a cab to Alana's. She graciously welcomed me to her couch, her computer (too hard to blog on the iPad) and most importantly, her DVR. So this blog is now officially dedicated to Alana.

Opening sequence that brings tears again about a dream coming true. JLo / STy Fashion Showdown. Look JLo: Emerald green sequin minidress with lots of leg. Look STy: Weird mixed material shirt. But wait, I am totally distracted by Randy -- what was he wearing?


Three rounds, Gaspy is in the audience! This is an ultimate country showdown which should make me happy but actually makes me nervous. Round one, contestants choice, Round two, new addition, their own idol chooses a song for them. Lauren (surprise) picked Carrie Underwood and Scotty picked George Strait. Major choice - George Strait is a country legend. Round three, each sings a new single.


Scotty starts it off with Gone. Fun, but he did not show off his voice at all. Ummm, why did the judges not judge him when he was done? Lauren sings Carrie Underwood's Flat on the Floor. Show opened noting that Lauren did something to her voice at rehearsal, strain that was treated by a doctor. I could hear the strain, she needs to learn how to find her mix in her throat so it doesn't hurt (thank you to my voice teacher). I thought both performed well, may Scotty did a little bit better.


Hero round. Scotty picked George Strait who picks "Check Yes or No," Really old school George Strait song. Come on, he is playing this for Grandma's vote. He seems kind of nervous for the first time. Boring. Corny. I check no. Why didn't he shave his head for JLo? Again, no judges judgement. WHAT?


Carrie picks Maybe it Was Memphis by Pam Tillis. Sweet old school song, but what was Lauren wearing? Come on, no pageant dress. These rounds are so rushed and weird.


Judges on 2 rounds.


Randy -- what is he wearing? He says they are both even. Randy on Scotty -- Gone was brilliant, George Strait song was was really good. Randy on Lauren -- loved Flat on the Floor, loved Pam Tillis. Round 1, slight edge to Scotty. Round 2, slight edge to Lauren.

I think Randy said In it to win It 75 million times -- is he selling a brand with that name?

JLo -- She loves Gone, Lauren attacked Flat on the Floor. Not as dynamic for Scotty on George Strait but clear and strong for Lauren Alaina. Round 1 Scotty, Round 2 Lauren.


Steven -- Round 1 and 2 to Lauren because she is prettier than Scotty. Le me repeat that -- the JUDGE, Steven Tyler said Round 1 and 2 to Lauren because she is PRETTIER than Scotty.


Here is my input to the judges -- you stink right now. Right now I miss Simon Cowell.


Weird, Ryan walk down aisle in audience and gives his whole speech while standing right next to Simon Fuller, creator and exec producer but does not acknowledge him. Weird.

Already last round. Love You This Big is the original song for Scotty. Umm was this written by a 1st grader? "Love You This Big" is a song? Come on Idol, don't patronize country.


Robot pit with waving arms in front of Scotty is terrible. This is the worst song ever. He can't deliver emotion big enough for this moment. He did not sing this big.


Randy -- again, what is he wearing? Randy said he liked the range (what range?). He is (wait for it) in it to win it -- what again?


Note that the judges panel needs to be styled together. Worst looking line-up ever. Right now I miss Cowell and his black suit and white button down opened down to there.


JLo -- Says Scotty is a storyteller and did a really amazing job with this song. Umm, are you speaking on behalf of your 3 year old twins who maybe wrote this song?


Steven -- Says Scotty showed his range, he nailed it.

What are these judges on?


Saw Cowell in that suit in the commercials. Oh boy.


Lauren -- Sings Like My Mother Does. Another stupid song. Who the heck wrote these stupid songs? Why did she walk into the audience to her Mom? Focus on singing, create a moment. Cheese. Then her Mom started crying. This should happen tomorrow, not while she is competing. Go ahead and milk it Lauren, though, get those fingers dialing.


Randy -- Loved the song, loved her voice, Lauren has arrived and he stands up.


JLo -- JLo says it is a tight race and she may have won. Lauren starts crying. She says she sang beautifully, with emotion and heart and beautiful voice.


Steven -- Steven reinforced that he picked her out from the audition and that she is the Idol. Gosh she was so confident in that audition, what happened to that confidence? I know she can get it back outside of this competition, but I do wish she had shimmered with that.

I have been fortunate enough to be in the audience 3 times during the final competition. Bo versus Carrie, Taylor versus Katherine, David versus David. There is nothing like the moment of hearing the voice, feeling the chills, having a moment. I have felt some moments this season and TONS of talent. The most talent ever.

But unfortunately, I will have to go on the record to say this was one of the most disappointing finale competition episodes ever. For a season as full of vocal magic, the rushed performances, the dismissal of the judges comments, the presence of a non singer Scotty, did not bring the magic for me.


After Round 3, Randy gives edge to Lauren, JLo tried to backtrack from already saying Lauren won it, saying it was a tight race. Steven says "Sorry Scotty, Lauren won hands down." Scotty and Lauren do seem like cute friends.

And then the best moment of the episode. David Cook.

Don't be ashamed of your obsessions...if you don't share them, you will have nowhere to turn when the DVR and VCR fail.

Delayed re-cap - it is a long one.

Even major Idol followers like me have to work to make a living, so unfortunately a work trip took me away from my TV this week. But this gives me the opportunity to give my thoughts on Idol's Top 3 show and results.



Priscilla Presley was in the audience as well as a guy in a dog costume.


3 rounds of competition, Judge's choice, contestant's choice and Jimmy Iovine's choice. Beyonce joins to mentor their personal choices. Beyonce should have taken off her bangles.


Round one, Scotty does Amazed. Good rendition, his voice sounded strong, but the corniness takes away from it for me. The poses, the looks, charming for some, too much for me. Lauren does Wild One by Faith Hill. Not a well known song, but she does have fun with it. Still gets afraid at the end and you can see it in her eyes. Haley sings Zeppelin and her father plays the guitar. I don't even know this song, but her skill is fantastic. It is so natural. She falls up the steps but it doesn't even phase her. Randy and Steven stand. Steven says, "It's not about how many times you fall, it's about how you pick yourself up." Round 1 goes to Haley from me and the judges. And her Dad is super cool. Scotty B+, Lauren B, Haley A


Round two, from Jimmy. He gives Scotty Thompson Square's Are You Gonna Kiss Me Or Not? Great new song that is a duet in real life. Scotty mellows out with this one, not as stylized. Still not the winner for me in terms of vocals, but he is fun. Judges go bonkers for it (surprise, surprise) and JLo asks Scotty to shave his already shot hair shorter. Whatever.

Looking back on Lauren's audition, what audacity she had. Oh if she can show that again even tonight. Jimmy picks If I Die Young by The Band Perry. One of my current favorites. She does a really nice job showing of her voice. Confidence is improved and her tone is strong. I still think she needs some training to hit those high notes, but that can be done.

Jimmy picks Rhiannon by Stevie Nicks for Haley. A little dark and moody, maybe not exciting enough of an option. The wind machine was something, that's for sure. Steven says Lauren took Round 2, JLo and Randy says it went to Scotty. I give it to Lauren. Jimmy gives them all props. Wow, that was Neil Sedaka sitting next to Jimmy the whole time? Scotty A-, Lauren A, Haley B+

Round three: Judges pick She Believes in Me by Kenny Rogers. Cheesy overload. I can't believe how young he is though. Maybe he will lose the cheese as he comes into his own? I thought it was strained and flat. Judges loved that he stretched himself. (no note on the strain?) Cute moment with his Dad.

Judges pick I Hope You Dance by LeeAnn Womack for Lauren. Oh, never heard that on this show before. Judges really love cheese. Beautiful tone to her voice. And then she switches it up at the end. I've always loved Lauren's vocal instincts. The way she hits notes and inflects with them is really beautiful. JLo gives her the round already (not mean to Haley at all), Randy talks about LeeAnn being a good friend, Steven also notes LeeAnn is a good friend of his. He is so happy. She does look gorgeous.

Judges give Haley Alanis Morisette's You Oughta Know. I think they made an egregious error here. This is a family show, you do not give her the angriest female rant ever. She had to change the lyrics to make it appropriate, and the song is a power screaming song. Of course she can sing it amazingly well, but it just makes her look mean. Well, maybe that is what they wanted to do. They gave her props for singing, but I think their choice is what led to the results.

I give round three to Lauren. Steven gives it to Haley, JLo and Randy give it to Lauren.

Re-cap on my scores.
Scotty B+, Lauren B, Haley A
Scotty A-, Lauren A, Haley B+
Scotty B, Lauren A, Haley A-
Lauren won the night, Haley in second and Scotty as always last. I wish Haley's first song could have been last, it would have helped her a lot.

Results episode. I already know what happened, but here are some thoughts. Jimmy immediately calls that Scotty makes it in. Cute going home piece with Haley, bad cheesy performance by Il Divo -- now that Simon Cowell is gone, why do we need to listen to this group he put together?

Cue to Scotty's outrageous hometown visit. Was sweet to see him break down. And then my worst nightmare happened. I have been comparing Scotty to a cheap knock off of Josh Turner and was sure Josh would not be into this weak comparison. And then, lo and behold, Josh pops up right beside Scotty and sings alongside him. Smart move for Josh who will get added numbers from Scotty, but disappointing for me. And then the God Bless America, God Bless Scotty sign. Wow.

That Nicole Sherzinger performance was not appropriate for anyone. Sweet home visit with Lauren seeing the devastation of the tornadoes. Results and Scotty is first through. I thought Steven didn't look to thrilled. Then Lauren is called in. Oh my Haley, you have had to fight your way through every week and you know what? You did it. You sang like a champ. Did Scotty or Lauren get the incredulous reactions from the judges that Haley did? Yes they were praised, but man Haley blew even Randy away this season. No doubt in my mind.

Now please XIX give her a great deal and producer, so she can keep going. Well now, moving to next week, let's all give it up for LAUREN!!!!!!!!!!!! Steven Tyler and my original pick to win. Let's make it happen people!

Let me also note a farewell to Oprah Winfrey. So I've watched almost all episodes this finale season as well as the behind the scenes. Gotta tell you, I am either going through some sort of hormone dysfunction or that show can make a girl cry. I'm not a fan of her indulgent side (promoting the types of people she likes or those who are on her new network) but the
emotional pull of her guests, topics and words can really get to a person. Excited to have shared in the final season of this cultural institution and I admit that I am watching Shania and Fergie's shows for sure on OWN. Wonder what the last episode will be?

Alright, you've heard enough from me! On to next week. It's gonna be a doozy.

Don't be ashamed of your obsessions...or in my case for YELLING at the cable company because AGAIN my DVR did not record Idol this week. I just spent 4 hours downloading illegally to watch, FYI.

And then there were three

Tonight I am nervous. Truly nervous.

LOVE JLo’s outfit. The green sequin top and baggy navy pants. And hair for miles. LOVE it so she wins, I’m not looking at Steven.

Review of last night. I have a pit in my stomach. My rating of last night’s performances – Haley won it, Lauren 2nd, then James and then Scotty.

James and Scotty do Keith Urban and Brad Paisley’s duet Start a Band. James singing country is not annoying at all. Scotty’s inflections are so over the top. James was singing the Keith part and Scotty was Brad. Just so you know. The kids on the stage are so cute! Idol loves my country lovin’ self. Lauren and Haley sing Miranda Lambert’s Gunpowder and Lead. Lauren does a great job but so does Haley! Everyone loves country. Reinforced Haley’s vocal prowess but Lauren totally kept up. Sweet video chat with home.

Results. The stools are for the top 3. Lauren is in. WOW, I totally got that wrong. But I’m super happy. I definitely wanted her to make it. I have to say that in 10 years of this, except for the few random surprises (Daughtry, Michael Johns) my instincts have been pretty right on about where things were headed in these final stages. My gut is Scotty is not the shoo in we have all thought. But we’ll see.

The contestants watch a Gaga performance from a concert. She performs her new single which Haley sang last week and got criticized for. Such an homage to Elton. The piano playing while standing on the bench was certainly interesting. FFwd Enrique who I can’t stand. Jordin Sparks appears to perform. She has had like 4 major hits on pop radio. Is I Am A Woman another hit? Catchy but I have now heard it enough and never need to hear it again. She is super tall and husky but is looking fit. And she definitely knows how to sing. That’s fo sho.

Steven Tyler debuts a video with circus animals, sexy young girls – oh that is Nicole Sherzinger singing with him. The song just got better. Ok we’ll see if I want to hear it again.

Results and Haley is through. WOW. These two guys are freaking out. Scotty has never been in the bottom 2. James is having a break down. PLEASE James cannot go home. Like I said yesterday, Scotty is going to be a success, despite my efforts. He does not need this. James deserves a chance to win.

Oh my god. This is crazy. I had a feeling that James was slipping a little. He was so good always that he almost didn’t shine as bright at the end. But this is not what was supposed to happen. James was definitely supposed to be in the Top 3. Now I’m even more mad at Scotty and the judges. The judges should have done a better job last of not telling the audience who should go home, whomever they felt it should be. They need to distinguish better.

James really gets the Daughtry speech. This is the week when Daughtry left. So rock on James – we can’t wait to hear. Til next week, don’t be ashamed of your obsessions or for shedding some major tears for James – I did.

Top 4 compete and the judges make me angry

I kind of can't believe we are down to 4. Listen to everyone, I understand what The Voice is. I am not not watching it because it isn't fantastic but because even I need to get a life and make choices. I don't watch Dancing with the Stars or every other reality show. I watch American Idol and especially this season with the talent and strong producer choices that have been the made, it has proven its value. Please stop comparing this to the voice to me. You think that show is better? Cool.

JLo / STy fashion showdown. Look JLo: One shouldered royal blue mini dress. Look STy: layer upon layer of neutral toned jeans, shirt, jkt. Winner is JLo because she doesn't always wear 3 piece outfits like Steven Tyler.

Top 4 is Haley, James, Lauren, Scotty. Lots of great talent. 2 rounds - songs that inspire the contestants and then Lieber and Stoller. LADY GAGA is the mentor. Amazing.

James opens with Journey's "Don't Stop Believing" -- Crowd pleaser? CHECK. I liked the ease of the performance. No big show, just a fun song. BUT he had some serious pitch issues which made it seem the ease was karaoke ease. Was this him competing? I'm a little torn. Judges, especially Randy, loved it. They could be just a little more critical in my book because yes it was good, but by no means was it great. B

Haley chooses Michael Jackson's What About Us (actually I don't know the title of this song) She makes it weirdly dramatic. I thought it was a terrible choice but then she hits the bridge and goes gospel showman and commands the stage and sings her little teeny butt off. Look it was cheesy, and definitely not her best performance, but she delivered power and sang. Casey was very happy in the audience. JLo felt that is was an actual inspirational performance but James set the bar with song choice and her song choice didn't compete with Journey. Agree from audience pleasing perspective. Randy says she screamed and didn't challenge her range and she didn't deliver. Haley finally talked back to him. YOU GO GIRL. Steven ended Randy's tirade and said JLo and Randy was are wrong. She showed she can, she nailed it, America heard it, don't believe them (the other judges). Haley is so over Randy and I agree. I'm not saying this was her best, but their overload of criticism of her is just too much when James did my favorite karaoke song. Do you understand that? James did karaoke. B+

COME ON. Scotty sings Alan Jackson's "Where were you when the world stopped turning?" Osama is killed and Scotty sings a song about 9/11? This propaganda is RIDICULOUS. He is not original at all. But "he knows Jesus" and so he will get through. (The previous comment was not at all anti-Jesus by the way, purely that I feel he picked this song only to tug on heartstrings.) If American Idol was based on smartest? Scotty would have won tonight. No more shows necessary. I can't wait to hear how the judges praise him. Randy says it is a great song, perfect song for the whole country and he is ready for superstardom. WHAT? Steven said it was beautiful. JLo said she is in love with him. I am going to barf. I agree with JLo that he knows who he is and what the people want. Manipulator. B-

I love country music and am ashamed that he is going to be a star. Maybe he will actually be an original artist and then I will change my tune, but so far? He is a fake.

Lauren sings Martina McBride's "Anyway" supporting her southern roots. She sings about god and faith and love just like Scotty did. But here is the critical difference. She has vocal talent that pierces my heart. It is still raw even and needs work, but the talent is not about being able to choose songs just to please the voter want. It is about inspirational vocal delivery. Steven said she delivers the song like a blue plate special and he loves her. JLo says Lauren is listening to her and doing a great vocal performance. Randy said he was worried last week, but this week she is back in it to win it. A

The four are brought to the stage. JLo wimps out of declaring no winner for round 1. I would have said Lauren. Randy then UNBELIEVABLY said Scotty, James and Lauren tied for first place. Haley was incredulous. Me too Haley. These people are out of their minds. How can you tie 3 out of 4 for first place? Make a damn choice. Randy said he is being honest? Then don't just diss Haley, pick a winner and favorite instead of hiding behind your criticism of her. You can declare her the loser but you can't declare anyone the winner?

Gaga comes out to mentor. "It's really nice to help young people be heard". She is not there to judge.

Haley sings "I Who Have Nothing." Here are all of the things Gaga says about how great Haley is: "It's amazing. She's so good at singing that the challenge for her is the drama. You're gonna kick so much ass, little pony," says Gaga. Great song choice and Haley wants this. She kills it. She stands still finally and sings her butt off. Modern power delivery. Come on. Judges standing ovation again. Randy should shut it forever. JLo says they do not take it easy on her because of what she is capable of. One of the best performances of the year. Randy said everyone needs a moment and this moment put her in it to win it. That was amazing. Steven said he always knew it she just "Reinhart'd it right through to next week." This girl gives it her all no matter what and that is star power. A+ again.

Cannot wait to see Lady Gaga with Scotty. He sing Young Blood by the Coasters. She says he has to keep his mouth on the microphone and to treat it like his girlfriend. Jimmy thinks he needs to show emotion. He is a great performer. But he does not win this vocal competition. And you know what? He doesn't need to. He has the ability to accomplish what he wants to without this title. Cut him loose people. And get ready to hear me complain next year in Nashville when he is performing. Why don't the judges comment that his voice is just not as good as his performance? Maybe that doesn't matter. "You made Gaga's yaya go lala." Oh Steven. B+

Lauren sings Trouble by Elvis. Gaga tells her she is not a kid and that she, Gaga, was way too weird at 16 to be on Idol. Gaga drives her to drop her morals. Lauren's confidence this week is 100 times better. Carrie did this song on Idol. Lauren does has range limitations compared to Carrie but her inflections and tone are so great. Good job. Agree with JLo that her beginning was really strong. Personally, I do think she lost that focus as the song went on. Randy blah blah blah blah. B+

James closes with Love Potion No 9. Gaga gets up and tried to get James to dance and loosen up. James rocks up the song. Tonight I was psyched by James's first song, but I didn't feel a moment from him. Lots of performance but didn't blow me away. Judge said he can sing everything and everything is a moment and everything is incredible. Come on. B

James B / B
Haley B+ / A+
Scotty B- / B+
Lauren A / B+

I've made it obvious that for me Scotty can go. Haley won round 2 so strongly, that she won the night. I believe James and Haley should move forward for vocal talent although James needs to tighten it up and have a moment or Haley will take this from him. Lauren should be the number 3, but I don't know if she can topple the Scotty juggernaut. So prediction is Lauren goes but wishes, hopes and dreams are for Scotty to pack his Madlibs and go.

Don't be ashamed of your obsessions...AND strive to make Gaga's yaya go lala.

I can't believe we are going down to 4 already

Let's start with a re-cap. Last night, James was over praised but solid, Lauren did fine but timid, Scotty kicked it up a notch and Jacob faltered severely. Oh and Haley? She was over criticised by the judges and then came out and kicked it right back in their faces.

JLo / STy Fashion showdown -- JLo is wearing my black top and bubble skirt dress from my 9th grade semi formal and Steven is looking like a major rock star so he needs to wear shades. The win goes to Steven just because I am afraid of JLo's performance.

Top 5 sing Happy Together and Scotty morphs into a totally different voice. Haley and Lauren sound good together. Jacob is doing a weird dance that makes his gut wiggle over his pants. I just made myself laugh with that description. This song is corny but they did a good job trying to make it interesting.

I don't even pretend to watch the Ford commercials. But the contestants in Gordon Ramsey's kitchen is funny. They have to make an omelet. Cute.

Brand new song debuts from Lady A. Never before heard! Hillary needs a different hairstyle. Charles does not need to change a single thing except being married to someone besides me. Oh and then there is Dave. Just a Kiss needs to grow on me. Not blown away. Seems like they are hoping to recapture Need You Now magic. This will get another listen. JLo looks nervous about her own performance. Was hers taped or live?

NEED to do my Idol downloads soon!

bing does a promo about song and wardrobe choice. Cute

Results are surprising? OH NO! James stands, Jimmy says he let the emotions take over the performance. Far side group. Uh oh, it is pick a group night!

Lauren stands, Jimmy says Flat on the Floor was good but her fear kept her from hitting the biggest note. He says she will be in bottom two. Near side group and tears.

More Kitchen Confidential with a blind taste test. Funny. Oh god my stomach is dropping if Lauren goes. I think Steven Tyler will leave the show.

JLo comes out in a metallic harem pant and jeweled bra top. Gorgeous hair and makeup and her heels are not too high so she won't fall down. I do not like this song but I'd dance to it if I was in a club (which does not happen). Can we talk about the abs? Pitbull tells her she has a bodonckadonck? Well done JLo.

Umm can Kate Hudson make one more wedding movie?

Oh now the video from JLo's next single. Can we say uber-promotional? Umm she is wet on the beach with someone who looks very different from Marc Anthony. And now JLo is back. Was her performance live or taped?

Results: Jacob stands. Jimmy says he had a rough night and fear again took over him. Jimmy gives him a 6. Jacob joins Lauren.

Haley gets a huge roar from the crowd. Jimmy thought she was 4th or 5th before last night, but she showed no fear and came back with a 10 for the night. He thinks she could be a lock for the finale. Haley joins James.

Scotty stands. Jimmy thought Gone was stellar but Always on My Mind was a bit short. But that he will be a success whether he wins this show or not. Ryan reveals Scotty has never been in the bottom two and is not tonight either. Ryan makes him choose the top two group. He won't so Ryan brings him to James and Haley and all three are safe.

Bottom two is Lauren and Jacob. Lauren is making me cry. Oh my god, she is so young. She should not go tonight people. Ryan comforts her.

Back from commercial. Jacob is going home. I have never felt such relief. Poor Lauren. Jacob spoke with class. He was so good in the beginning. I think he got really stuck with song choice over the weeks and faltered. He goes back to A House is Not a Home. No bad feelings on this. He rocked out.

don't be ashamed of your obsessions...or wearing lower heels so you don't fall down...

Double the pleasure

So tonight it is time for the double performances. An audience member held up a sign that said "I love the Ryan side part (meaning is hair)" Me too! JLo / STy Fashion Showdown: I'm giving it to Ryan because JLo's hair is wackadoo.

Guys, I think my DVR cut off the show. I'm holding my breath. Let's see if I get to complete the blog.

Sheryl Crow co-mentors with Jimmy. Nice.

James sings a 30 Seconds for Mars song. And Sheryl Crow sings along with him. Yikes the movement through the audience has made him go flat. Not my favorite. I liked the direction, but the sound was not all that. Agree though that there was nothing lazy about that performance. B

Jacob sings No Air by Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown. Sheryl praises his range. Jimmy praises Jacob for being able to sing a duet by himself. Oh, the dance moves are not good. He went flat and sounded terrible. Let me give this context. These top 5 are really amazing. So when I say he was terrible, he was not really that bad, just out of this group. JLo says if this is the direction he wants to be in, then he should stick to it. Randy says he is corny and should not head in this direction. I agree. Steven says he needs to find his niche. Agree again. I think this is the end of the road for Jacob. C

Lauren sings Flat on the Floor by Carrie Underwood. One of my favorites and I just heard her sing it live for the first time this past weekend. Sheryl tells her to stay put and sing. Great advice. This is a very hard song to sing. Jlo rocks out with her. I think she had a rocking great time. Randy loved it. Great direction for her to take. Steven says she is it. Jlo says she did what she needed to do. It was not perfect, but I think she is playing hard. B+

Scotty sings Gone by Montgomery Gentry. Love that Sheryl knows it and sings along. Finally a hard country song for him to sing, a rock one. Just saw Josh Turner perform this weekend and it just reiterated my issues with Scotty. This was my favorite Scotty performance and I think the kid has a lot of charisma but I don't think I loved it because he is an awesome singer and so for me that is still a problem. Country can be corny, but when Scotty sings it, it kind of always has a bit of corniness right? Steven liked it, JLo loved it, Randy randy'd it. B+

Haley does an unreleased Lady Gaga song, You and I, suggested by Jimmy and Gaga gives her her blessing to perform it. Sheryl feels it will be a moment. Such a campy Elton Johnesque song, right? Come on people, this girl's voice is amazing. And she is finally showing us where she can fit in "niche" wise. Her performance style still slightly awkward. JLo felt she should have done a song people know. JLo says I'm sorry baby. DISAGREE. Randy says too risky. DISAGREE. Haley is upset. Steven gave her props for putting her style in the song but says she needs a perfect song. I'm sorry but I thought that was way better than Jacob, better than James and better than Scotty voice wise. They are screwing her over. A-

Now to next round with oldies.

James sings Without You by Harry Neilson and has a breakdown in the studio while listening to it. So he adds his vulnerability to the performance.

WOW my DVR cut off for no reason. Ok this should be interesting.

Back to James - Thank god for You tube. James sings a song I have never heard sung by a man personally. He cries during the performance. Not technically perfect but emotionally strong. He sang with his heart. Randy thought it was emotionally perfect. The competition is now James's to lose. Steven said it is "crazytown" that his emotions took over (he meant that in a good way). JLo loves his heart and soul. He is an artist she says as she cries. James admits he gives every single performance his all and that I believe and that is why this is his competition to lose right now. A-

Jacob sings Love Hurts by Everly Brothers -- I think this is truer to who Jacob is, but for me it then feels old and I don't know what album he will make. I'm glad he got to shine again, but he does lose control of his voice and for me, tis is the end of the road. Sorry I don't know what the judges said! My youtube friends cut that off! B

Lauren Alaina sings Unchained Melody. Nice to see her soft side after the first round. I know she still suffers from some underconfidence, but you can see she challenges herself. That is a big song to take on when you are worried about hitting it. Small struggles but her talent is strong. Jennifer thinks it is beautiful, Randy likes it, Steven says he could listen to her all night. B+

Scotty sings Always on My Mind. And he is definitely NOT leaving the show. Scotty got me with this one. He showed off the best parts of his voice, was touching, emotional and so damn smart picking this song. His delivery was more straightforward, not as corny believe it or not. I liked it a lot. I don't know the judges remarks because I couldn't find a clip of them, but I'm sure they loved it. Randy probably said, Scotty is in it to win it! A-

Haley sings House of the Rising Sun and I just watched it 75 times. Standing ovation from 3 judges who just wrote her off 25 minutes ago. Randy crowns her with best performance of the night, she blossomed. Steven says she sold everybody. JLo says she showed her anger at them and then sang her butt off. Her best vocal and her best performance. OUTSTANDING Haley. I now crown my first A+ of the season. That was it. A+

James B / A-
Jacob C / B
Lauren B+ / B+
Scotty B+ / A-
Haley A- / A+

I am so sorry I couldn't recap all the judges comments and am super sad to not have seen what Sheryl had to say about the second half. Will find a way to watch full episode this weekend! But I will tell you that despite the judges first critique, Haley won the night (I liked both performances), James was a close second (first one I didn't love), Scotty scotty'd me tonight (first great song choice and second finally singing well and winning me over) but came in third, Lauren was great, but needs a moment. And Jacob, we have come to the end of the road my friend. I say farewell to my lip gloss wearing friend.

Really loved the mix of old and new. Can't wait to hear Lady A sing a new song tomorrow night and am still a little afraid of seeing JLo perform live.

Don't be ashamed of your obsessions...and believe in the power of youtube, it can save you from a melt down. Now back to Haley, for the 76th time.

Go ahead, you can watch it again too. http://youtu.be/oSAF2JsOEcI

I know so many secret things...

I have no comment right now on many things. But I can tell you that in no fashion showdown should a man, even if he is Steven Tyler, wear a poet blouse. Has no one watched Seinfeld?

Ryan is trying out a new hairstyle which is very reminiscent of David Beckham's new hair style from the new Pepsi commercial. So many synergies in this crazy world. Ryan, I like it.

The Idols attend a Brit week party. Fun bits but weird actual party.

Carole King medley. Lauren and Haley rocked and James once again soared.

To recap my reaction from last night, Jacob and Scotty should be in bottom 3. Casey would join them because James was by far best and Haley and Lauren did so well. Many of my readers are commenting that they don't see the breakout star. I disagree. With the changes in the themes, judges, addition of Jimmy Iovine and because I think Jimmy and the AI executive team will take a lot more control over the talent, this year's contestants have been able to clearly sing their style and identify themselves. So now, half of the figuring out is done. And as much as we thought the past winners could become stars, right after winning, only those that developed their image, committed themselves to a genre and created real hits (Kelly, Carrie, Daughtry) became stars. I always wanted Carrie to win in her season, but in no way, shape or form, did she actually seem destined for the super stardom she has now when she won.

Results: Haley to the center of the stage. Ryan now introduces Jimmy's take on the night's performances. Jimmy thinks Haley has one of the best voices on the stage but she doesn't really know who she is as an artist. Haley is not happy with that comment. I do think she knows who she is. She is safe.

Scotty. One of his finest showings for Scotty range. Jimmy saya he is a phenom, and compares him to Johnny Cash, but is worried he might be too subtle. THERE IS NOTHING SUBTLE about him. He just does not have the range to sing with power. Ryan stalls in his result.

Lauren. Man she is gorgeous. Agree with Jimmy that Lauren's confident poise is winning. Last night she felt like a winner. She needs to hang tight.

Casey. He is a talent, but last night may have been one too many stylized performances. Jimmy is spot on that Casey growled too much last night but that he is safe. Casey needs to hang tight.

James. Last night was amazing. Jimmy thinks James is better with a melody than a heav metal song. He is a contender to win. Agreed. James is safe.

Jacob. Jimmy hated the outfit and thinks he could go home. Jimmy thinks they need to be compared against each other.

Lauren is safe. Jacob, Scotty and Casey in the bottom 3. Yeah, I called it.

This new Bruno Mars is my summer song. Done. If you see me this summer, this song will be on. Of course I never do nothing, but I can dream.

As Ryan says, the results are in random order, Jacob is safe (so he was actually the bottom 2, not Scotty). Casey is going home.

In my opinion, Jacob and Scotty could have gond before him, but Casey got an opportunity to share his voice,talent and stardom with all. There is nothing to be sad about. What a clever guy going out to hug and kiss everyone. Joy. This season has been joy.

Interesting fact. Last night's episode was up 12% from this time last year. Who needs Simon Cowell?

Enjoy this weekend of pop culture mania. I can't wait to see the dress, and I do think it will be THE DRESS, my friends. AMAZING JOY!!!!!!!!!

Don't be ashamed of your obsessions...they bring joy.

Carole King, Really?

No I didn't watch The Voice, yes it sounds good, yes Blake Shelton is really that hot and charming. Yes I wish my DVR was not exploding from the last 25 episodes of Oprah or I would try a new show. Yes it sounds like Simon Cowell may be shaking in his boots a bit with this competitive coaching talent search.

There, it's said.

Now for the JLo / Sty Fashion Showdown. Look JLo: Gold and nude mixed materials mini dress with long straight hair. Look STy: It looks like grey rubberized pants with a light gold metallic button down shirt and a burnished metallic leather jacket. Metal on metal on metal. JLo wins for not doing what Sty did.

As you might be able to tell from my title, I am scared of this week's theme. After having wide themes like songs from the movies, post 2000, etc, forcing a specific singer songwriter's songs who in my opinion sounds a lot older than the songs of Elton John scares me. Why not just do singer songwriter theme? That works for all!

Wow Babyface joins Jimmy to mentor. And the contestants are dueting as well as performing solo.

Jacob -- "Oh No, Not my Baby" He seems really beaten down and Jimmy thinks he is in jeopardy. Cute preppy outfit. Fun, good energy. Goes wild on the riffs. I wish I knew the song. Steven liked that he shook his tailfeather. Agree with JLo that the vocal wasn't perfect but the performance was strong. Randy liked how he sang. He's trying which is great. B

Lauren -- "Where you Lead" (Otherwise known as the amazing Gilmore Girls theme song). Last week she was told by the judges to stretch herself, I don't feel she has played it safe per se. Babyface helped her stretch. I can't explain but this girl is my soul mate. I am always worried about hitting the high note. Really. Jimmy brings in Miley as a surprise for Lauren. Miley gives her a great talking to about getting over the negativity. Smart confidence booster. I thought she seemed super polished in this performance and comfortable performing. Sweet arrangement. JLo tells everyone to clap because she pushed her voice. Randy liked her swagger and said she threw down the gauntlet even though he didn't love the song choice. Steven made her cry with his words of encouragement and pride in the break in her voice. This girl is for realz. A-

Duet between Haley and Casey. "I Feel the Earth Move" AI is banking on these combos. I hope they duet on the tour. They really compliment each other. Haley looks great. Love their jam. So much energy and the style of Casey's voice was exactly how he should record music. Steven called out Casey for showing how in love with Haley he is.

Scotty -- Had a rough week last week. "You Got a Friend" Jimmy and Babyface tell him to pull away from the twang a bit. He is going for the emotional button. Smart stripped down opening. Look I love this song, but it sounds old no matter who sings it. Better focus on his vocals made me realize his vocals are weaker than they come across in a fast song. His best vocal showing, but too little too late for me? Why did he have to raise his eyebrows before the last line? So hokey! Randy thought it was practically flawless. What? Steven thought his voice was at its best. JLo complimented his storytelling. He is a ham. Loved Ryan making fun of his eyebrow raise. B-

James -- "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?" James takes on a love song. Babyface was blown away. Jimmy was blown away. This is a moment. Do you hear the power of this guy's voice? How can you compliment Scotty when you hear this? His range, his talent is remarkable. I want to be as cool as JLo when she dances along. She is so gorgeous. I can't wait for the James Durbin / Steven Tyler duet in the finale. Look if he could stay on key in that on his breaking point range of his voice -- INCREDIBLE. I was blown away. Steven let us know he made out with a girl to this song. JLo thought it was magical and pointed out his consistency. Randy loved his versatility and called him out as the winner. That might have been a bit too far, but I agree that this guy is a star. A

Sweet touching moment backstage with James dedicating his performance to his wife.

Scotty and Lauren duet (surprise!) "Up on the Roof" Country singers love a duet. Lauren is so great at adding her style to a song. She blew Scotty away. He was flat and could not compete with her. JLo said she sang her brains off. I don't think she wanted to compliment Scotty.

Who was the little girl on Steven's lap?

Casey sings "Hidey Ho" No idea how to spell that. Very stylistic, fun staging. Many times I am not a fan of the dramatic on this show, but Casey has managed to sing with a lot of drama, perform with a lot of drama, and still over the weeks has also shown me enough of his voice and talent (especially in the duets with Haley) that I now understand he won't record with melodrama, just with spunk. He is an entertainer. Steven loved the performance. "You make my scalp itch it was so good." B+

Haley -- "Beautiful" Babyface called her a good artist. Almost a technical snafu. Ed thinks she doesn't "get" the songs she is singing. You know what? She has a joy in her face, a smile when she sings because she is so at ease that I think it makes it seem like she doesn't have the gravitas. She is happy. She sang this with such ease and comfort and she does not choose an easy path to sing with. Her vocal choices are challenging. Great song choice for her. If the judges criticize her after the compliments they gave Scotty, I don't even know what to say anymore. Steven says he saw God while she sang. JLo said she has one of the best voices in this competition. Randy said he didn't love the beginning. Shut it Randy. Excellent job Haley!!!!!! A

Duet from Jacob and James. "I'm into something good" They did not want to duet. Cute but so corny. I could not stop staring at JLo's legs. Love the diva ending.

James won the night with Haley barely a half step behind. Lauren and Casey were strong. Jacob and Scotty are in the bottom, I think, with may Jacob headed home though I am ready to kick Scotty to the backroom of Tootsie's (a fine Nashville establishment).

Jacob B
Lauren A-
Scotty B-
James A
Casey B+
Haley A

Don't be ashamed of your obsessions...or being so good that you make Steven Tyler's scalp itch.

Someone is bye bye

Wow last night had a lot going on right? To re-cap, I definitely want Lauren, Casey and James to stay. I got some more insight into Jacob's botched performance from EW -- read below:

The mystery of Jacob’s botched cue: On TV, it looked like Jacob was perhaps overcome with emotion at the outset of “Dance with My Father”; but, for what it’s worth, it was clear to everyone in the studio that something had gone seriously wrong musically. As Jacob began singing, the strings section situated behind Jacob began plunking to a drum beat at odds with the song; mere seconds later, the strings and pretty much the whole band stopped playing at all, save for a piano emphatically delivering the song’s melody line. Finally, for a brief second, Jacob stopped singing and shot a quick glance at band director Ray Chew — as if to say “what the heck is going on?” — and the air kinda left the room. But Jacob soldiered on, and when he hit the chorus, the audience spontaneously began applauding him, pretty much willing him to make it through.

Therefore, I also want Jacob to stay another week. And I like Haley, so as always, I am fine with Stefano leaving. Scotty gets one more shot in my book. Last shot.

So night opens with the JLo / STy Fashion Showdown. Look JLo: Black sequin mini dress. Look STy: Black leather pants, black long sleeve shirt. Winner: STy looked slick and Randy definitely did not win with his American flag t-shirt.

Lauren, Haley, Jacob and Stefano sing Train's Hey Soul Sister. Fun, easy performance.

Casey, Scotty and James get to perform Coldplay's Viva La Vida. They loved the cheesy hand movements. Was it just me or was this Scotty's best performance? Him not overdoing the accent was excellent. It was good but also so funny.

So now, results. Casey stands. He is a lot skinnier than his large head makes him appear. Jacob stands. Loved Ryan making sure everyone knew Jacob's situation last night. Casey is safe and Jacob is in the bottom 3. Not surprised but I do hope it isn't because of the botch but because of the old feeling song choice.

David Cook takes the stage wit ha brand new song entitled "The Last Goodbye." This song could grow on me. I liked his first album, so let's see. He is still the most poised, best personality contestant the show has had.

Cute video of the gang going to a baseball game, bowling and spa. Cute bit.

Lauren, James and Stefano head to the center. Stefano is in the bottom 3 again. Lauren and James are safe. So my wishes so far have come true.

Scotty and Haley to the center. Wow the audience went nuts over Haley. Ryan fakes out like Scotty was in the bottom 3. Haley is in he bottom 3 but then Ryan send her right back to safety. Wow, Stefano and Jacob. Stefano has been here almost every week, right?

Katy Perry performance of ET. Nice hologram appearance of Kanye. She sang well. Crazy dance / light show. Boring song. Oh wait, Kanye was really there! I guess he was invited so it was good they let him in.

Ryan goes to Jennifer for her thoughts. She loved Jacobs moments and remarked on Stefano the wild card still being in it. Forgot he was the wild card. Steven reminds them how many people have gotten to see them perform. It is finally Stefano's time to go.

Ryan reminded us of his life threatening accident that we learned of in the auditions. Umm I totally forgot that too. I will give him props for trying hard. He was not complacent. Nice ending performance by Stefano of Stevie Wonder's Lately. He went out like a pro. James was crying a lot.

Next week is songs of Caroel King -- really? YIKES. Way to kill the modern streak.

Don't be ashamed of your obsessions...unless you wear an American Flag shirt not on the 4th of July.