Lucky 13

The “American Idol” lucky 13 took the stage last night to deliver to us songs from their own personal idols.  Here are a few of my favorites from last night and this season.  

Casey Abrams: Hands down, my favorite from last night.  This segment kicks off with Joe Cocker's name being plentifully invoked as Casey's role model - he loves him from "The Wonder Years" and, besides, Cocker's "got that growl in his voice, and he doesn't look that hot either," Casey explains.  In this performance of "With a Little Help from my Friends," he once again embodied the song and interpreted it with more than just his voice, but with his movements and emotions. Jennifer said that she felt like she was watching someone important up on stage.

Naima Adedapo: made it into the Top 13 thanks to the ‘American Idol’ judges’ wildcard.  Adedapo took on the Rihanna and Jay-Z Grammy winning song, 'Umbrella,' this time without the judges’ umbrella to save her from elimination from the competition.   I thought she gave the best performance tonight.  It was a toss up for me between her and Casey of which one to choose first…but as a whole package, I’d have to say Casey.  Naima was a little pitchy, but I still feel like she overall did amazing!  I’m excited to see what will happen with her tonight.  Hopefully her hard work paid off.

Pia Toscan: I think she by far has one of the best voices on the show.  Pia uncorks an almost Celine-like performance of "All By Myself" was by far the best yet this evening. Pia really knows her niche. JLo is actually rendered speechless.   I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us.

James Durbin: Ok, not gonna lie….I think he’s EXTREMELY talented, but has never been one of my favorites…until last night anyway.  This rock star def. showed off his range - and his new haircut - as he performed Paul McCartney's Maybe I'm Amazed.  I thought he did incredible last night.

Paul McDonald is a little bit country, a little bit rock-n-roll, and a whole lot of quirky.   McDonald went way outside of the box and picked a song by alternative country singer, Ryan Adams.  I love the way he sounds…he’s very unique…you never know what dance move he’ll do next…and I seriously could listen to him all day long.

And last, but not least…..

Lauren Alaina has always been one of my favorites.  She just seems super precious and I really enjoy listening to her.  Lauren opened the show with a performance of Shania Twain’s ‘Any Man of Mine.’  Alaina picked the Twain as her own personal ‘musical’ idol.  One thing is certain, Lauren has a really easy to listen to, effortless voice.  

RGL