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Tuesday, May 4, 2010
The Unofficial Danny Gokey Fan Site

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Talking with Tim

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Soon after Tim Urban was eliminated from American Idol in seventh place, he participated in a press call. At this time, he shared what it was like to go home during the Idol Gives Back show, his killer smile, and the road ahead.

The well-spoken contestant was poised and mature as he fielded questions from the press, and this good attitude is something Simon commented on during the competition. Thats actually something that was my goal on the show, Tim stated. It was not just to improve as an artist, but to just be a very good contestant, and to take what everybody was saying, and to just treat the situationnot let it get me down, but to take what they were saying and work at it and improve, but also, not to really complain or to talk back. Just take the criticism and work from it. It was cool to get that recognition about that. Its something that Im very proud of.

Tim is the comeback kid and endured an interesting ride during Season 9! Honestly, when I auditioned I didnt even think Id make it past the stadium, just because of how many people were there, and how few people were getting through. So when I was at the stadium, I was honestly expecting to just go up there and sing and have them say that I wasnt what they were looking for and not get any farther than that. I didnt really have any grand pictures, so this whole thing has blown me away. When I made it to Hollywood week, I was like, Wow, this is crazy! And then when I got sent home from Hollywood week, I was … read more
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Talking with Tim

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Soon after Tim Urban was eliminated from American Idol in seventh place, he participated in a press call. At this time, he shared what it was like to go home during the Idol Gives Back show, his killer smile, and the road ahead.

The well-spoken contestant was poised and mature as he fielded questions from the press, and this good attitude is something Simon commented on during the competition. Thats actually something that was my goal on the show, Tim stated. It was not just to improve as an artist, but to just be a very good contestant, and to take what everybody was saying, and to just treat the situationnot let it get me down, but to take what they were saying and work at it and improve, but also, not to really complain or to talk back. Just take the criticism and work from it. It was cool to get that recognition about that. Its something that Im very proud of.

Tim is the comeback kid and endured an interesting ride during Season 9! Honestly, when I auditioned I didnt even think Id make it past the stadium, just because of how many people were there, and how few people were getting through. So when I was at the stadium, I was honestly expecting to just go up there and sing and have them say that I wasnt what they were looking for and not get any farther than that. I didnt really have any grand pictures, so this whole thing has blown me away. When I made it to Hollywood week, I was like, Wow, this is crazy! And then when I got sent home from Hollywood week, I was … read more
Visit Source


Two Season 9 Semi-Finalists Pair Up

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Season 9 had some strong semi-finalists, and Katelyn Epperly and Lilly Scott were two talented young ladies who were eliminated right before the finals. The 19-year-old from Iowa and the 20-year-old from Colorado became best buds while on American Idol, and now the two are teaming up for a show. On May 5th, Katelyn and Lilly will perform at 8pm at the Blue Moon Dueling Piano Bar and Restaurant in West Des Moines, Iowa.

View photos of Katelyn and Lilly on Season 9 of American Idol.

You can join Katelyns and Lillys official groups and chat with other fans, here.

Visit Source


Two Season 9 Semi-Finalists Pair Up

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Season 9 had some strong semi-finalists, and Katelyn Epperly and Lilly Scott were two talented young ladies who were eliminated right before the finals. The 19-year-old from Iowa and the 20-year-old from Colorado became best buds while on American Idol, and now the two are teaming up for a show. On May 5th, Katelyn and Lilly will perform at 8pm at the Blue Moon Dueling Piano Bar and Restaurant in West Des Moines, Iowa.

View photos of Katelyn and Lilly on Season 9 of American Idol.

You can join Katelyns and Lillys official groups and chat with other fans, here.

Visit Source


Chris Daughtry and Bon Jovi to perform on next week’s ‘Idol’

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Photo_BonJovi_300RGB Season 5's fourth-place finisher Chris Daughtry will return to the "American Idol" stage next Wednesday in what has become a semi-regular slot for alumni. Bon Jovi is also scheduled to perform on the Top 4 results show episode, Idol Tracker has confirmed, though it's not clear whether the band's appearance is tied into that week's theme.

Previous reports indicate a movie theme may be on the horizon, bringing to mind Bon Jovi's "Blaze of Glory" (and Bo Bice's "Blades of Glory," the theme song to the awesome Will Ferrell-Jon Heder comedy).

On the Daughtry end of things, the band is expected to play "September," the next single off its platinum-plus second album, "Leave This Town." The band is in the middle of a headlining tour and playing a sold-out show at L.A.'s Nokia Theater on Monday night. Frontman Chris Daughtry can also be seen on a special one-hour episode of "American Idol Rewind" devoted to the rocker. It airs May 8 (check local listings).

– Shirley Halperin

Follow @IdolTracker on Twitter

Photo: Bon Jovi members David Bryan, left, Jon Bon Jovi, Tico Torres and Richie Sambora. Credit: Kevin Westenberg

Visit Source


Chris Daughtry and Bon Jovi to perform on next week’s ‘Idol’

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Photo_BonJovi_300RGB Season 5's fourth-place finisher Chris Daughtry will return to the "American Idol" stage next Wednesday in what has become a semi-regular slot for alumni. Bon Jovi is also scheduled to perform on the Top 4 results show episode, Idol Tracker has confirmed, though it's not clear whether the band's appearance is tied into that week's theme.

Previous reports indicate a movie theme may be on the horizon, bringing to mind Bon Jovi's "Blaze of Glory" (and Bo Bice's "Blades of Glory," the theme song to the awesome Will Ferrell-Jon Heder comedy).

On the Daughtry end of things, the band is expected to play "September," the next single off its platinum-plus second album, "Leave This Town." The band is in the middle of a headlining tour and playing a sold-out show at L.A.'s Nokia Theater on Monday night. Frontman Chris Daughtry can also be seen on a special one-hour episode of "American Idol Rewind" devoted to the rocker. It airs May 8 (check local listings).

– Shirley Halperin

Follow @IdolTracker on Twitter

Photo: Bon Jovi members David Bryan, left, Jon Bon Jovi, Tico Torres and Richie Sambora. Credit: Kevin Westenberg

Visit Source


‘Idol’ rehearsals: When Harry met Casey … and Lee and Crystal and Michael and Aaron

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Pg175920

It's not every day you walk into the "American Idol" studio and find Harry Connick Jr. at the piano, but that's where the jazz legend was, dressed Monday casual in a baggy white button-down and loose black pants, walking Big Mike through his big-band arrangement — one that Harry himself came up with — and making sure the Top 5 contender was comfortable with the twists and turns of a Sinatra song. Judging from the fist bump at the end, it was all good.

It's Ol' Blue Eyes week, which means it felt a little like a Christmas rom-com and a lot like "When Harry Met Sally" on Stage 36. Only this was when Harry met Lee, and Casey, Crystal and Aaron, along with the aforementioned Michael Lynchd. Truth be told, Harry Connick is one heck of a multi-tasker. Not only did he orchestrate all the parts of each individual song, but he also played conductor, cheerleader and vocal coach.  

The process, however, was pretty much the same. Each contestant got at least three run-throughs plus an instrumental to sing along to sans amplification, with musical director Rickey Minor looking on from the judges' table. The band, which includes nine string players, 13 brass and one drummer, looks like it was put together by HCJ. And as we previously reported, no one is allowed to play an instrument this week.

How did that pan out? Kind of nicely, I must admit. Without the weight and obstruction of a guitar, however minor, it seemed as though the Top 5 opened up vocally — like they got more power, volume and reach with that little bit of extra air. Or maybe that's just confidence taking control. After all, it's been a couple of months of high-stress competition.

And how was Season 9's guitar golden boy Casey James handling the adjustment? "We'll see," he said with a hint of skepticism, then explained how he'd come to terms with what he "signed up for." Meaning, he's not driving this well-oiled machine. Nevertheless, Casey was pleasantly surprised by this new guitar-less sound. "Walking around sounds different," he enthused in a moment of self-discovery. Leave it to stage manager Debbie Williams to chime in with a very important message for Casey: "You know who we should fix you up with? Kellie Pickler." As if Casey needs help in the dating department. Really, Debbie.

We kid, but in all seriousness — someone's gotta go every week. This is what Casey James was explaining after mentioning our shiva for Siobhan. That's right, the guy in the bottom two was trying to console me. I'm not sure if that meant he'd resigned himself to the possibility that Tuesday is his last night or whether Casey was just speaking the truth, but I liked the way he ended his thoughts: "Well, you have two more days to mourn." And: "What matters to me me is what happens after the show." He's wiser than he even realizes…

Speaking of smarts, Aaron Kelly's got some, otherwise how would he have made it to the Top 5? With his sleeves rolled up (as always) and his schoolwork out of the way, he was down to big-band business and what he does best: belt. Last week, I asked him about hitting the "money note" — that big sustain at the end of every one of his performances. "It's not that I'm trying to show off," he explained, "it's what feels right for the song. Sometimes, I feel like it's gonna be boring if it doesn't have a big, grand ending." And going one step further in proving he's Season 9's David Archuleta, little Aaron dutifully hugged everyone within arm's reach (Crystal, vocal coach Debra Byrd, Fox staffers etc.), vintage Archie style. No wonder he keeps getting all those votes! 

As for our front-runners, needless to say, Lee and Crystal handled their starring turns with aplomb, even if somewhat fidgety without their instruments. So instead of the strum, it was the snap, which seems all too appropriate considering the genre du jour. Lee was especially thumb-happy and also looking quite chummy with Mr. Connick, while Casey, who held onto his microphone for dear life, was simply starstruck. "I'm not even alive right now, it's like I'm in a dream," he said while watching Harry have his way with a Hammond organ.

To that end, expect a little New Orleans groove in Tuesday's episode (it is, after all, Harry Connick's hometown), as evidenced by Crystal and Rickey Minor's impromptu twirl at the base of the stage while Lee sang his heart out. Similarly, Lee and Casey both stood at attention while Crystal ran through her Sinatra number. But even with only 30-some people in the room, the show's last girl standing garnered the loudest applause from this influential focus group. Next stop: final four.

– Shirley Halperin

Follow @IdolTracker on Twitter

Photo: Michael Lynche, Lee DeWyze,
Crystal Bowersox, Casey James and Aaron Kelly watch as Siobhan Magnus sings her last song on April 28. Credit: Michael Becker / PictureGroup/Fox

Visit Source


‘Idol’ rehearsals: When Harry met Casey … and Lee and Crystal and Michael and Aaron

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Pg175920

It's not every day you walk into the "American Idol" studio and find Harry Connick Jr. at the piano, but that's where the jazz legend was, dressed Monday casual in a baggy white button-down and loose black pants, walking Big Mike through his big-band arrangement — one that Harry himself came up with — and making sure the Top 5 contender was comfortable with the twists and turns of a Sinatra song. Judging from the fist bump at the end, it was all good.

It's Ol' Blue Eyes week, which means it felt a little like a Christmas rom-com and a lot like "When Harry Met Sally" on Stage 36. Only this was when Harry met Lee, and Casey, Crystal and Aaron, along with the aforementioned Michael Lynchd. Truth be told, Harry Connick is one heck of a multi-tasker. Not only did he orchestrate all the parts of each individual song, but he also played conductor, cheerleader and vocal coach.  

The process, however, was pretty much the same. Each contestant got at least three run-throughs plus an instrumental to sing along to sans amplification, with musical director Rickey Minor looking on from the judges' table. The band, which includes nine string players, 13 brass and one drummer, looks like it was put together by HCJ. And as we previously reported, no one is allowed to play an instrument this week.

How did that pan out? Kind of nicely, I must admit. Without the weight and obstruction of a guitar, however minor, it seemed as though the Top 5 opened up vocally — like they got more power, volume and reach with that little bit of extra air. Or maybe that's just confidence taking control. After all, it's been a couple of months of high-stress competition.

And how was Season 9's guitar golden boy Casey James handling the adjustment? "We'll see," he said with a hint of skepticism, then explained how he'd come to terms with what he "signed up for." Meaning, he's not driving this well-oiled machine. Nevertheless, Casey was pleasantly surprised by this new guitar-less sound. "Walking around sounds different," he enthused in a moment of self-discovery. Leave it to stage manager Debbie Williams to chime in with a very important message for Casey: "You know who we should fix you up with? Kellie Pickler." As if Casey needs help in the dating department. Really, Debbie.

We kid, but in all seriousness — someone's gotta go every week. This is what Casey James was explaining after mentioning our shiva for Siobhan. That's right, the guy in the bottom two was trying to console me. I'm not sure if that meant he'd resigned himself to the possibility that Tuesday is his last night or whether Casey was just speaking the truth, but I liked the way he ended his thoughts: "Well, you have two more days to mourn." And: "What matters to me me is what happens after the show." He's wiser than he even realizes…

Speaking of smarts, Aaron Kelly's got some, otherwise how would he have made it to the Top 5? With his sleeves rolled up (as always) and his schoolwork out of the way, he was down to big-band business and what he does best: belt. Last week, I asked him about hitting the "money note" — that big sustain at the end of every one of his performances. "It's not that I'm trying to show off," he explained, "it's what feels right for the song. Sometimes, I feel like it's gonna be boring if it doesn't have a big, grand ending." And going one step further in proving he's Season 9's David Archuleta, little Aaron dutifully hugged everyone within arm's reach (Crystal, vocal coach Debra Byrd, Fox staffers etc.), vintage Archie style. No wonder he keeps getting all those votes! 

As for our front-runners, needless to say, Lee and Crystal handled their starring turns with aplomb, even if somewhat fidgety without their instruments. So instead of the strum, it was the snap, which seems all too appropriate considering the genre du jour. Lee was especially thumb-happy and also looking quite chummy with Mr. Connick, while Casey, who held onto his microphone for dear life, was simply starstruck. "I'm not even alive right now, it's like I'm in a dream," he said while watching Harry have his way with a Hammond organ.

To that end, expect a little New Orleans groove in Tuesday's episode (it is, after all, Harry Connick's hometown), as evidenced by Crystal and Rickey Minor's impromptu twirl at the base of the stage while Lee sang his heart out. Similarly, Lee and Casey both stood at attention while Crystal ran through her Sinatra number. But even with only 30-some people in the room, the show's last girl standing garnered the loudest applause from this influential focus group. Next stop: final four.

– Shirley Halperin

Follow @IdolTracker on Twitter

Photo: Michael Lynche, Lee DeWyze,
Crystal Bowersox, Casey James and Aaron Kelly watch as Siobhan Magnus sings her last song on April 28. Credit: Michael Becker / PictureGroup/Fox

Visit Source


VIDEO: Idol Confessions with Michael Johns

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Always affable Aussie Michael Johns is the latest “American Idol” alumnus to pop by the L.A. Times video studio, providing plenty of laughs and a little season 7 insight. The eighth-place finisher talks about meeting Dolly Parton as a little kid (and the impression her bosom left) then reuniting on the show about 20 years later, having a backstage psychiatrist at the ready after his elimination, and, at 28 years old, sneaking into the “Idol” dorm after curfew only to have David Cook spill the beans the next day.

Check back every week for new sit-downs with “Idol” alums, and view Idol Tracker’s video archive here.

Visit Source


VIDEO: Idol Confessions with Michael Johns

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Always affable Aussie Michael Johns is the latest “American Idol” alumnus to pop by the L.A. Times video studio, providing plenty of laughs and a little season 7 insight. The eighth-place finisher talks about meeting Dolly Parton as a little kid (and the impression her bosom left) then reuniting on the show about 20 years later, having a backstage psychiatrist at the ready after his elimination, and, at 28 years old, sneaking into the “Idol” dorm after curfew only to have David Cook spill the beans the next day.

Check back every week for new sit-downs with “Idol” alums, and view Idol Tracker’s video archive here.

Visit Source


Siobhan Magnus paints herself black on ‘Late Show With David Letterman’

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Siobhan Magnus sang "Paint It Black" on "Late Show With David Letterman" on Monday night, and she probably painted herself a whole lot of new fans in the process.

She certainly seemed to make a fan of Letterman, who initially seemed oddly focused on Magnus' patterned tights.

"Are those …? Th-th-that's … Th-th-those aren't, are they?" he stuttered.

"What?" asked an understandably confused-looking Siobhan. The audience laughed.

"Are you tattooed like that?"

"Oh, my tights?" Siobhan said, startled. Then it was her turn to laugh, as Paul Shaffer rushed in to clarify.

"They're tights," he told Dave, who looked at once relieved and disappointed.

Leave it to Siobhan to get even David Letterman talking about her exotic clothing choices.

So great. But not as great as Siobhan was when she ripped into "Paint It Black."

Check out the video, courtesy of MJ's Big Blog, below:

 – Amy Reiter

Visit Source


Siobhan Magnus paints herself black on ‘Late Show With David Letterman’

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Siobhan Magnus sang "Paint It Black" on "Late Show With David Letterman" on Monday night, and she probably painted herself a whole lot of new fans in the process.

She certainly seemed to make a fan of Letterman, who initially seemed oddly focused on Magnus' patterned tights.

"Are those …? Th-th-that's … Th-th-those aren't, are they?" he stuttered.

"What?" asked an understandably confused-looking Siobhan. The audience laughed.

"Are you tattooed like that?"

"Oh, my tights?" Siobhan said, startled. Then it was her turn to laugh, as Paul Shaffer rushed in to clarify.

"They're tights," he told Dave, who looked at once relieved and disappointed.

Leave it to Siobhan to get even David Letterman talking about her exotic clothing choices.

So great. But not as great as Siobhan was when she ripped into "Paint It Black."

Check out the video, courtesy of MJ's Big Blog, below:

 – Amy Reiter

Visit Source


Heart’s Ann and Nancy Wilson on ‘Idol’ and the music business

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

140686_E18_053_v1
With Crystal Bowersox now officially the last woman standing on "American Idol," we thought this week would be the perfect time to speak to other powerful women in rock and get their take on how our favorite show has evolved. On Tuesday, we'll present a chat with the illustrious Melissa Etheridge, but Monday, we have the women of Heart, whose songs have been performed on many a season of "Idol," and who we ran into at a benefit for the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center on Saturday night.

If Ann and Nancy Wilson were starting out today, would they audition? Not a chance. Read on for more "Idol" talk from the game-changing sister duo, whose new album, "Red Velvet Car," is due out in late summer.

Usher recently reportedly said that shows like "American Idol" are ruining the music business. What's your take on that? 
 
Ann Wilson: [Laughs] Well, I don't think that there's any one thing that could ruin the music business. I think the music business is evolving because of "American Idol." It's helped it to evolve in a different way. "Idol" changed it. … It's good to see kids up there. I think it's a classic American-spirit type of show. It's taken the place of "The Ed Sullivan Show. …"  
 
Nancy Wilson: I think that it's cool that people have an appointment with a television show, where they're rooting for somebody that they get to know, and they see the hardship of going through all of that. And trying to make it and they're up against such a horribly judgmental country and reviewed for it. They have to be surprising in some way or perfect or you know. And when Susan Boyle was out there doing her thing, it informed the entire world. And I think that's what it really should be and that's what good about it.
 
If you were starting out today would you guys audition?
 
Ann: I don't think so …
Nancy: Maybe. Ann could probably do it — she would kick ass — but I couldn't.
 
Ann: I don't know if I could, but I really admire the people that do that. I would probably just try to go into the pipeline.
Nancy: And playing live shows
 
Ann: And doing it through work. For some people it's perfect: Yesterday I was nothing; tomorrow I could be something. I mean they want something for nothing, and on that show you can kind of get it quick.
Do you watch the show?

Ann: We've seen a few episodes.

Nancy: I love it when they do Heart songs. People call us up, and that's when we watch it.
 
Your songs have made several appearances on the show. Do any stand out?  

Ann: Carrie Underwood. She was great, and then we did "Alone" with her on "Idol Gives Back." There have been some great talents up there.
 
As you know, Simon Cowell is leaving the show at the end of this season. Any interest in being a judge?
 
Ann: I would be a judge. Maybe they would get something good from me; I'd say something kind. 
 
What about the mean part?
 
Ann: I couldn't do that.
Nancy: We wouldn't be very good at breaking people's hearts in front of millions of people.
Ann: That's what Ellen DeGeneres says. … It would be too hard to do that and hurt people.
 
– Shirley Halperin
 

Follow @IdolTracker on Twitter

Photo: Heart's Nancy (left) and Ann Wilson (right). Credit: Randee St Nicholas

Visit Source


Heart’s Ann and Nancy Wilson on ‘Idol’ and the music business

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

140686_E18_053_v1
With Crystal Bowersox now officially the last woman standing on "American Idol," we thought this week would be the perfect time to speak to other powerful women in rock and get their take on how our favorite show has evolved. On Tuesday, we'll present a chat with the illustrious Melissa Etheridge, but Monday, we have the women of Heart, whose songs have been performed on many a season of "Idol," and who we ran into at a benefit for the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center on Saturday night.

If Ann and Nancy Wilson were starting out today, would they audition? Not a chance. Read on for more "Idol" talk from the game-changing sister duo, whose new album, "Red Velvet Car," is due out in late summer.

Usher recently reportedly said that shows like "American Idol" are ruining the music business. What's your take on that? 
 
Ann Wilson: [Laughs] Well, I don't think that there's any one thing that could ruin the music business. I think the music business is evolving because of "American Idol." It's helped it to evolve in a different way. "Idol" changed it. … It's good to see kids up there. I think it's a classic American-spirit type of show. It's taken the place of "The Ed Sullivan Show. …"  
 
Nancy Wilson: I think that it's cool that people have an appointment with a television show, where they're rooting for somebody that they get to know, and they see the hardship of going through all of that. And trying to make it and they're up against such a horribly judgmental country and reviewed for it. They have to be surprising in some way or perfect or you know. And when Susan Boyle was out there doing her thing, it informed the entire world. And I think that's what it really should be and that's what good about it.
 
If you were starting out today would you guys audition?
 
Ann: I don't think so …
Nancy: Maybe. Ann could probably do it — she would kick ass — but I couldn't.
 
Ann: I don't know if I could, but I really admire the people that do that. I would probably just try to go into the pipeline.
Nancy: And playing live shows
 
Ann: And doing it through work. For some people it's perfect: Yesterday I was nothing; tomorrow I could be something. I mean they want something for nothing, and on that show you can kind of get it quick.
Do you watch the show?

Ann: We've seen a few episodes.

Nancy: I love it when they do Heart songs. People call us up, and that's when we watch it.
 
Your songs have made several appearances on the show. Do any stand out?  

Ann: Carrie Underwood. She was great, and then we did "Alone" with her on "Idol Gives Back." There have been some great talents up there.
 
As you know, Simon Cowell is leaving the show at the end of this season. Any interest in being a judge?
 
Ann: I would be a judge. Maybe they would get something good from me; I'd say something kind. 
 
What about the mean part?
 
Ann: I couldn't do that.
Nancy: We wouldn't be very good at breaking people's hearts in front of millions of people.
Ann: That's what Ellen DeGeneres says. … It would be too hard to do that and hurt people.
 
– Shirley Halperin
 

Follow @IdolTracker on Twitter

Photo: Heart's Nancy (left) and Ann Wilson (right). Credit: Randee St Nicholas

Visit Source


Jordin Sparks headed to Broadway’s ‘In the Heights’

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Pg7306 Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks will make her Broadway debut this
summer in the Tony-winning musical "In the Heights," currently starring Corbin Bleu of "High School Musical" fame.

Our pals over at Culture Monster have the stage scoop: Jordin will play Nina Rosario, a college student with a secret who
returns to her old neighborhood in New York's Washington Heights.

She'll join the ensemble for 12 weeks (Aug. 19 through Nov. 14). A touring production of "In the Heights" is also scheduled to hit L.A.'s Pantages Theater in June and the Orange County Performing Arts Center in Costa Mesa in August.

– Shirley Halperin

Follow @IdolTracker on Twitter

Photo: Jordin Sparks
performs on Season 8 of "
American Idol." Credit: Michael Becker / PictureGroup

Visit Source


Jordin Sparks headed to Broadway’s ‘In the Heights’

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

Pg7306 Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks will make her Broadway debut this
summer in the Tony-winning musical "In the Heights," currently starring Corbin Bleu of "High School Musical" fame.

Our pals over at Culture Monster have the stage scoop: Jordin will play Nina Rosario, a college student with a secret who
returns to her old neighborhood in New York's Washington Heights.

She'll join the ensemble for 12 weeks (Aug. 19 through Nov. 14). A touring production of "In the Heights" is also scheduled to hit L.A.'s Pantages Theater in June and the Orange County Performing Arts Center in Costa Mesa in August.

– Shirley Halperin

Follow @IdolTracker on Twitter

Photo: Jordin Sparks
performs on Season 8 of "
American Idol." Credit: Michael Becker / PictureGroup

Visit Source


Monday morning wrap: Crystal Bowersox has lots of fans (and teeth)

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

The "Idol" judges may have been unimpressed with
Crystal Bowersox's performance last week, but the press seems to have lost no
interest in the dreadlocked frontrunner. Over the last few days,
Crystal has dominated the "Idol" coverage. (Discounting Siobhan
Magnus' requisite post-elimination
media blitz
, that is.) A few highlights:

Etheridge remembers Crystal: Melissa Etheridge says she "kinda" remembers meeting Crystal
after a concert in August 2008. Asked when she might appear on "American
Idol," Etheridge, who sang on "Dancing With the Stars'" last
week, said "That's up to them. They actually have a real competition with
'Dancing With the Stars.' So they're like, 'I dunno. She just did
"Stars." I dunno.' " But there is one "Idol" who has
apparently captured her attention. "Crystal, come on, she's got my
autograph," Etheridge said, noting that she met Crystal and the other
"Idol" contestants last week. "She said she saw me at the Chicago
Theater Aug. 8 in '08. And that's when I signed it, her guitar. I'm like, 'I
kinda remember that.' She had pictures. It was cool. The other Idols were like,
'What?' It was good. It was cool." (Watch the video, via IHeartRadio, below.)

Etheridge's kids are Crystal fans: As for how the Bowersox-Etheridge
meeting
at the Chicago Theater happened, Etheridge explained on "The
View" on Friday: "She came backstage to a show I did in Chicago. My
drummer knew somebody that knew somebody that knew her. She got backstage and I
signed her guitar and that's the guitar that she uses. That's my
signature." Etheridge said it was her kids who first noticed their mom's
signature on Crystal's guitar. "The first time that she auditioned on
'Idol,' they stopped the TiVo … and they said, 'Mom, is that your signature?' I
said, 'Yeah.' They said, 'Can we meet her?' I said 'I don't know.' " Maybe
Melissa could get Crystal to sign her guitar.

Crystal's boyfriend is also a Crystal fan: The New York Times' ArtsBeat blog has revealed a
subtle attempt to drum up support for Crystal Bowersox by the man identified as
her boyfriend following her performance of Shania Twain's "No One Needs to
Know" last week. The paper offers a closeup of the shirt the fellow wore to the show, which appeared to read, "Did you know
that America prefers Crystal Bowersox for their Idol one BAJILLION times more
than other contestants?" The shirt also had a picture of a guitar on it.
Maybe he could get Melissa and Crystal to sign it.

Crystal's choppers have their fans too: Beatweek magazine, meanwhile, is focused
on Bowersox's teeth
. Responding to Crystal's
recent tweet/Facebook post
, "No thank you, New York dentist. I am
beautiful exactly the way I am. :-) " Beatweek explains, "Apparently
all the contestants were afforded a trip to the dentist at the same time, as fellow contestant Michael Lynche beamed 'No cavities!' in a blog posting of his
own on the same day." The site then throws its support behind Crystal's
apparent disinterest in cosmetic dentistry: "This wouldn't have been the
first time that an Idol contestant suddenly showed up with better looking teeth
in the middle of the competition. But we can't recall an instance of having
ever allowed a musician's teeth to play a factor in whether or not to purchase
their album, or to influence our enjoyment of said album, so we say good for
Crystal." You know we're getting down to the nitty-gritty of the
competition when we're parsing contestants' teeth.

Crystal has lots of fans? You bet! Bowersox's
supporters in her hometown
, Elliston, Ohio — teachers, neighbors, friends
– have taken to gathering each week at a local church (presumably to watch her perform on "Idol"). "This coming week,
it will be taco night," reports the Lancaster (Ohio) Eagle Gazette. But
support for Crystal clearly reaches far and wide, making her an
enduring favorite to win.
"Crystal can be found at the top of any
American Idol betting lines and has remained on top since the start of the
competition," reports SportsbookGurus.com. The current standings:

Crystal Bowersox: -200


Lee DeWyze: +300

Casey James: +700

Michael Lynche: +1,500

Aaron Kelly: +3,000

– Amy Reiter

Visit Source


Monday morning wrap: Crystal Bowersox has lots of fans (and teeth)

Posted: 04 May 2010 12:24 PM PDT

The "Idol" judges may have been unimpressed with
Crystal Bowersox's performance last week, but the press seems to have lost no
interest in the dreadlocked frontrunner. Over the last few days,
Crystal has dominated the "Idol" coverage. (Discounting Siobhan
Magnus' requisite post-elimination
media blitz
, that is.) A few highlights:

Etheridge remembers Crystal: Melissa Etheridge says she "kinda" remembers meeting Crystal
after a concert in August 2008. Asked when she might appear on "American
Idol," Etheridge, who sang on "Dancing With the Stars'" last
week, said "That's up to them. They actually have a real competition with
'Dancing With the Stars.' So they're like, 'I dunno. She just did
"Stars." I dunno.' " But there is one "Idol" who has
apparently captured her attention. "Crystal, come on, she's got my
autograph," Etheridge said, noting that she met Crystal and the other
"Idol" contestants last week. "She said she saw me at the Chicago
Theater Aug. 8 in '08. And that's when I signed it, her guitar. I'm like, 'I
kinda remember that.' She had pictures. It was cool. The other Idols were like,
'What?' It was good. It was cool." (Watch the video, via IHeartRadio, below.)

Etheridge's kids are Crystal fans: As for how the Bowersox-Etheridge
meeting
at the Chicago Theater happened, Etheridge explained on "The
View" on Friday: "She came backstage to a show I did in Chicago. My
drummer knew somebody that knew somebody that knew her. She got backstage and I
signed her guitar and that's the guitar that she uses. That's my
signature." Etheridge said it was her kids who first noticed their mom's
signature on Crystal's guitar. "The first time that she auditioned on
'Idol,' they stopped the TiVo … and they said, 'Mom, is that your signature?' I
said, 'Yeah.' They said, 'Can we meet her?' I said 'I don't know.' " Maybe
Melissa could get Crystal to sign her guitar.

Crystal's boyfriend is also a Crystal fan: The New York Times' ArtsBeat blog has revealed a
subtle attempt to drum up support for Crystal Bowersox by the man identified as
her boyfriend following her performance of Shania Twain's "No One Needs to
Know" last week. The paper offers a closeup of the shirt the fellow wore to the show, which appeared to read, "Did you know
that America prefers Crystal Bowersox for their Idol one BAJILLION times more
than other contestants?" The shirt also had a picture of a guitar on it.
Maybe he could get Melissa and Crystal to sign it.

Crystal's choppers have their fans too: Beatweek magazine, meanwhile, is focused
on Bowersox's teeth
. Responding to Crystal's
recent tweet/Facebook post
, "No thank you, New York dentist. I am
beautiful exactly the way I am. :-) " Beatweek explains, "Apparently
all the contestants were afforded a trip to the dentist at the same time, as fellow contestant Michael Lynche beamed 'No cavities!' in a blog posting of his
own on the same day." The site then throws its support behind Crystal's
apparent disinterest in cosmetic dentistry: "This wouldn't have been the
first time that an Idol contestant suddenly showed up with better looking teeth
in the middle of the competition. But we can't recall an instance of having
ever allowed a musician's teeth to play a factor in whether or not to purchase
their album, or to influence our enjoyment of said album, so we say good for
Crystal." You know we're getting down to the nitty-gritty of the
competition when we're parsing contestants' teeth.

Crystal has lots of fans? You bet! Bowersox's
supporters in her hometown
, Elliston, Ohio — teachers, neighbors, friends
– have taken to gathering each week at a local church (presumably to watch her perform on "Idol"). "This coming week,
it will be taco night," reports the Lancaster (Ohio) Eagle Gazette. But
support for Crystal clearly reaches far and wide, making her an
enduring favorite to win.
"Crystal can be found at the top of any
American Idol betting lines and has remained on top since the start of the
competition," reports SportsbookGurus.com. The current standings:

Crystal Bowersox: -200


Lee DeWyze: +300

Casey James: +700

Michael Lynche: +1,500

Aaron Kelly: +3,000

– Amy Reiter

Visit Source


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