The elimination round for this week’s “American Idol” turned out as I had predicted: a female contestant would be cut, rather than a male, and one who had selected an obscure song.
There is a definite bias amongst the young people voting. The bias is in favor of the male contestants. Therefore, a weak performance by a Deandre or a Heejun will be forgiven by the screaming teenyboppers, while the female contestant who has done a better job will be given her walking papers.
In my article yesterday, I mentioned that the most obscure songs by girls were sung by Elise and Erika. I had considered the very real possibility that Heejun Han would be kicked off, but his song was entertaining, if not as well sung as those of some others. Heejun has definitely angered judge Steven Tyler, so I wouldn’t count on anyone “saving” him if he continues being picked for the bottom three. Heejun and Deandre seem to end up in the bottom three nearly every week; were I a betting person, I would not bet on either to win, and Jimmy Iovine as much as said this about Heejun on air, which seemed somewhat cruel.
Erika Van Pelt had come out with a brand-new hair-do that I remarked reminded me of Lisa Minnelli. She sang “I Believe in You and Me” and the judges’ remarks were: “Amazing by the end. An unbelievable tone. You sold me.” (Randy) Jennifer praised Erika’s tone and interpretation, telling her that she “makes songs come alive.” Steven Tyler said, “It was perfect. I think you’re great.” Despite these salutes, the judges did not use their one “save” for Erika. My theory is that they’re saving it for a Jessica Sanchez or a Joshua Ledet, should they be in peril.
The elimination of Erika (no relation to Lucy) just proves that the judges don’t carry as much weight in their remarks as the ability of at-home viewers to relate to the contestants’ selections. I’m sure that many will remember how taken with Casey Abrams the judges were last year. He did not prevail, even though a big magazine picked him to win it all. (“People,” if I remember correctly.).
Casey Abrams was in the audience with his parents this night, possibly because Hailey Reinhardt was featured singing her new release. Another singer who delivered an underwhelming performance was Lana DelRay. The best entertainment portions of elimination night were provided by the opening group number (Billy Joel’s “The Longest Time”) and by the appearance of fellow Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry to salute Steven Tyler on his birthday.