Michael Sarver

American Idol: And Then There Were Nine

Published March 27th, 2009 by Wendy
American Idol Experience
Creative Commons License photo credit: kwalk628

One pop star wannabe is going back to the 5th most dangerous job in the world. Yes, Michael Sarver, the Texas oil rig worker, got the boot from American Idol last night in what was a surprise to no one.

Sarver’s rendition of “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” Wednesday night was roundly criticized by the judges, but when he re-performed the song last night, both female judges, thought he sounded a lot better. Still, it wasn’t enough to convince Simon Cowell that Sarver deserved a placed in the Top 9, and to exercise their new “save” authority the judges have to come to a unanimous decision.

More than 36 million votes were cast-a Top 10 record-and the two lowest vote getters were Sarver and Matt Giraud, the soulful balladeer who really impressed the judges with his version of “Let’s Get It On”  As a top ten finisher, Sarver will be on the Idol tour this summer.

Idol Boots Pink-haired Cowgirl After Country Music Night

Published March 19th, 2009 by Karen

 

botas_vaqueras_en_fondo_blanco
Creative Commons License photo credit: homero chapa

Following a pathetic night of contestants attempting to sing country music songs, American Idol eliminated another singer Wednesday night. (Why eliminate just one?)

Tension was high, sort of, as Alexis Grace, Michael Sarver and Allison Iraheta were announced as the bottom three contestants.

While the best part of 16-year-old Iraheta’s performance was probably her brightly colored hair, she and oil rig worker Sarver were spared this week. The pink-haired singer sent home was Grace, whose boring version of Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” got the lowest number of viewer votes.

In a new twist this season, the judges have the option of vetoing the viewers’ decision to send a contestant home.

 
However, after Grace gave a last-ditch performance last night, the judges decided not to save  the 21-year-old single mother.

The show is now down to its Top 10 singers.

American Idol Michael Jackson Night? No Thanks.

Published March 11th, 2009 by Karen
Jeff's Work
Creative Commons License photo credit: kwalk628

Tuesday night on American Idol, the judges thought it would be a good idea to have the remaining top 13 contestants perform songs by Michael Jackson.

Why Jackson’s popularity endures is beyond us. He is creepy, his vocal range is limited at best, and his dance moves are getting pretty tired.

At any rate, Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell , Randy Jackson and the other judge (Kara Who-cares) set the kids up for an excruciating night of music by the King of Pop. We’re not sure why American Idol keeps inflicting this type of cruelty on its loyal audience.

Two contestants will be eliminated during tonight’s post-Jackson episode, although, honestly, we could name at least half a dozen singers that should go home now (if their parents still want them back, that is).

Seriously, Megan Joy Corkery performed “Rockin’ Robin.” MJ recorded that song when he was like 7 years old, seeing a grown woman sing it is just weird–kinda like those beauty pageants for toddlers. Just weird.

Also during the show, blind pianist/judge fave Scott MacIntyre performed an obscure Michael Jackson number called, “Keep the Faith.” He said he picked the song because he wanted to do something artistic, which caused Simon to bluntly point out that, “It’s fine being artistic, just not on this show.”

Good point, Simon. This is glorified karaoke, not art.

Check out Tuesday’s American Idol Playlist to find out which Michael Jackson song each of the contestants performed on the show.

"I can't wait to watch the rerun of Michael jackson night. I think it will expose all the idols to new viewers and bring in some new fans. It will also..."
  Linda

American Idol Playlist: Michael Jackson Night

Published March 11th, 2009 by Karen
Flickr photo by thatgrumguy

Flickr photo by thatgrumguy

In case you missed the horror of Michael Jackson Night on Tuesday’s American Idol, we’ve got the complete list of songs performed by the Top 13 contestants. It doesn’t seem nearly as scary (or boring) on paper as it was during the performances though.

Tune in tonight to see two contestants get eliminated (we’re hoping it’s Danny Gokey and Megan Joy Corkery, but it looks like Corkery might stick around for a while—she’s the new favorite at vote for the worst).

American Idol playlist for Michael Jackson Night
Kris Allen—Remember the Time
Megan Joy Corkery—Rockin’ Robin
Anoop Desai—Beat It
Matt Giraud—Human Nature
Danny Gokey—PYT
Alexis Grace—Dirty Diana
Allison Iraheta—Give in to Me
Adam Lambert—Black or White
Scott MacIntyre—Keep the Faith
Jasmine Murray—I’ll Be There
Jorge Nunez—Never Can Say Goodbye
Lil Rounds—The Way You Make Me Feel
Michael Sarver—You are not Alone