American Idol: Songs of the ’80s, ’90s, and Today

I believe this week turned out just as it should. Yes, I’m still reeling from the elimination of Alexis Grace, but so far, she’s been the only major upset for me. As the pack gets smaller and the competition fiercer, each week’s cuts are only going to get more painful, but enough of the lamenting. It’s “songs from the year you were born” week so it’s ’80s flashback time for most, and that’s my decade so bring it on! Let’s get to the saaaaaanging!

Danny sings a really different version of “Stand by Me” from 1980. I’m not a big fan of this version, but I love the original by Ben E. King. Danny’s lucky he’s one of those “can sing the phonebook” artists, so he pulls it off, and the judges love it.

Kris, my cutiepatootie! Yes, I will find new ways to call Kris cute for as long as he’s on the show which I hope is FOREVER. Bring him back every season so I can just look and listen to him, and then his wife can leave him, and then he’ll be mine FOREVER! Okay, now that I’ve gotten that bit of crazy out, Kris sings “All She Wants to Do Is Dance” from 1985. I forget he’s younger than me, that’s how scrumptious he is! He’s in the pit surrounded by screaming ladies, right where he belongs. The judges don’t like the song choice necessarily or the arrangement, and Simon goes so far as to call it indulgent, but at least Kara liked the fact that he chose an upbeat song.

Lil is having a hard time this season for being the forerunner to win this baby. I knew the minute that she picked 1984′s “What’s Love Got to Do with It” that she was going to have a hard time. Singing Tina Turner‘s iconic song is big britches to fill. The thing is I like Lil, and I really do believe the judges liked Lil, but while everyone is carving out their niche in the musical world, Lil still seems like a really AMAZING karaoke singer. Simon takes it further by saying she was like a 2nd or 3rd rate Tina. Randy still believes in her, but doesn’t think she’s listening to the judges’ advice, and Kara agrees.

Anoop is back in the house. Will that keep him on the show? I’m not sure ’cause it seems like no matter how well he does, the audience just doesn’t love him as much as they used to. Awkwardly, Ryan asks him to address his smack talk to the judges last week which I didn’t really realize was happening or thought that it was a big deal. It makes it even WORSE to revisit this strange moment a week later, Ryan! I love 1986′s “True Colors,” and I love Anoop’s chill version. Everyone likes his performance which as Paula says has all the colors of the rainbow. And Simon even stands up for Anoop saying criticism is a two way street. If the judges can say harsh things, so can the contestants. Damn straight! Stand up!

Scott is up, and by up, I mean he’s not sitting behind his piano. He’s rocking the electric guitar. This guy is crazy talented besides not having a good enough voice to hang with this bunch. I still think he’s adorable. Picking “The Search is Over” from 1986 is a horrible choice. I’m not sure if he realizes what songs fit his voice the best. Of course the judges tiptoe around the issue that it wasn’t a great vocal at all and that he should probably be going home. Kara says she liked some of it and not the rest. Okay, thanks! Simon believed it was atrocious, and Randy said it was just okay. They’re never hard on him, except for Simon who’s always honest, and when you start pandering, it’s time to let go.

Allison Iraheta, you are the bomb! Don’t you ever forget it. The judges say you don’t have personality, but I think you’re just cool, calm and collected and aren’t some poppy, bubbly teenybopper like Jordin Sparks (who I loved as well). Just be you, girl. She kills 1992′s “I Can’t Make You Love Me.” Randy compares her again to Kelly Clarkson. I think he’s trying to hint at something to us. Simon thought it was good, even though he was the one to bring up the personality comments in the first place. By the way, how cute is it that she’s the only one born in the ’90s?

Matt Giraud finally has a week where I believe he’s undoubtedly safe, and I can exhale a sigh of relief. He goes back to his R&B roots which is so much better than his Rock roots in every way. I mean, you can tell the difference even in the performance. Just because you like a song, Matt, doesn’t mean it’s a good fit for you. Smartly picking “Part-Time Lover” from 1985, the judges rave. Paula stands, which isn’t really a big deal nowadays. Randy and Kara loved every bit of it, and Simon says it was so much better than last week. And I agree with all of the above.

Adam is one of those love him or hate him contestants. I just happen to be in the minority. This week he was extremely reserved, and that’s when I like him best. He’s worn out the “wow-factor” of his high, Steven Tyler shriek. I like his choice of “Mad World” from 1982. With a performance like this, I can understand why people love him. He’s different, unique and makes real, strong choices. You can’t fault him for that. Time is running out so only Simon can speak, but he prompts a standing O from all the judges which pretty much says it all.

THE RESULTS

You spin me right round, baby right round. I’m all about Flo Rida. I like these current performances much better than last year’s old fogie performances. I can do without Kelli Pickler, but then again, I’m very selective about my country and she didn’t really win or even get close to winning her season so why would I be.

There’s a Ford music video and a horrible rendition of “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” by Kylie Minogue. Did I miss the reason why they’re singing this song? My ears may bleed from this choice, and I’m suing if they do.

Anoop is put in the bottom 3 which doesn’t surprise me. He’s then followed by Scott and Lil. Though I agree with these choices, I’m still scared that the two superior singers will be axed early. If it was Anoop, he’d be gone, but Lil might actually be saved by the judges, and they hint at this point.

Lil is saved first, and then only 30,000 votes separate the final two. I’m biting my nails though I don’t think Anoop will get much further than the next few rounds. Fortunately for my manicurist, Anoop is the last to be safe.

Scott has a chance to sing his final song one more time which sounds even worse to me the second time around. I know the judges won’t be saving him, but they draw out the drama. Simon tells Scott that everyone really likes him, which we know. Paula says he’s a role model for the world which is cheesy but true.

Scott, it was your time, but your talent has been noticed and will be appreciated once you get some vocal lessons. Good luck, my man!

Season 8, Episodes 26 & 27: Top 8: Performances & Top 8: Results (originally aired April 7 and 8, 2009)

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Photographs courtesy of Fox Broadcasting Company and IMDbPro