‘American Idol’ auditions, episode 1, season 10: just say no? No!
Loading ...Our first two hours of season 10 of “American Idol,’ or more importantly, “life after Simon Cowell,” felt different, more positive, more uplifting, less prickly.
Did that make it duller? Just a smidge. I felt the void. And it definitely made it easier for the contestants.
New judge Steven Tyler in an interview said they saw maybe 100 contestants per city. I this case, Ryan Seacrest said 51 made it from the New Jersey auditions. Under Simon’s reign, no individual city ever got to 50 that I can recall. With him, it would be more like 15 to 25 people.
So clearly, a lot of people who would have been rejected in years’ past made it this time around. And there were a couple of singers we saw that I thought didn’t deserve a golden ticket but got them anyway. Jennifer Lopez at times made Paula Abdul seem like a wicked witch in comparison. J. Lo could barely utter the word “no” and felt guilty about it even when the person sucked badly. And though Randy Jackson was still there, he added nothing much new to the Randy Jackson equation.
So far, I do like Tyler. He’s vibrant and colorful, even when trying to soften the blow with bad singers. He was a good judge selection. I’m not sold on Jennifer. We can only hope she’s more useful when the live shows start because she’s not adding as much as you would hope given her experience.
Loading ...Were there any great singers? Maybe two we saw over two hours were truly memorable to me: Robbie Rosen and Travis Orlando. And we did see quite a few 15 and 16 year olds, perhaps by design.
Anyway, “Idol” opened the show with a pastiche of the media uproar prior to the naming of the two judges. The opening theme song was modified a bit and the visuals include non-winners for the first time. I saw Jennifer Hudson, Daughtry and Adam Lambert on top of the winners.
Ryan said 125,000 people tried out. I’m certain it wasn’t that much. I need to sift through my past entries to see what I counted it to be.
I did finally learn how to pronounce Jimmy Iovine (I-oh-veen!), the new mentor and Interscope Geffen A&M chairman. Among artists he has helped: U2, Black Eyed Peas, Dr. Dre, Eminem and Lady Gaga. An impressive list.
Constantine Maroulis introduces Ryan at the Meadowlands in New Jersey. The editors create yet another misleading timeline. They have Ryan there at 10:45 a.m., August 3 Then at 11 a.m., supposedly 15 minutes, the three judges arrive. Actually, the judges are nowhere near the Meadowlands. But don’t be surprised. They’ve been creating this illusion for years.
They also give the impression New Jersey is the first audition city. It was actually Nashville. But who cares about reality when you have reality TV!
First up: Rachel Zevita, a New York student, does “Hallelulejah,” the most overdone song of the past three seasons. It’s not very good, not even remotely.
Jennifer Lopez said she remembered her from season six.
“This wasn’t the best audition you could give from what I remember but I know you can sing,” Lopez said.
I’m already confused by Steven Tyler’s commentary, which can sometimes go by way too fast. I had to rewind multiple times to get this: “When you came out here you were on fire. You got to sing something that delivers the same feeling and voice and notes and tone-age that you just spoke. We’ll let her in the door, water that flower because it’s going to grow. I think you have what it is is. You have to redirect it.”
Phew!
I’m not sure she would have gotten through with the original three on board. I can’t imagine Simon would have said yes to that one.
The next guy was on the audition sampler handed out to the press a couple weeks ago:
Caleb Hawley from New York does a Ray Charles classic “Hallelujah, I Love Her So,” which has nothing to do with “Hallelujah.” He does a spirited version.
“Yes!” Steven said. “That was so good. High voice. Character. Something new. Something different!”
I’m not sure he has star power but he has a good voice.
Third up–the first 15 year old Kenzie Palmer. She’s cute and sounds great. I like her. She sings Carrie Underwood’s “We’re Young and Beautiful.”
“I wasn’t feeling that,” Steven said.
“I disagree!” Jennifer said.
“You could have moved a lot more,” Randy said.
Steven is a softie. He says yes anyway.
Achille Lovle is the first bad singer they highlight. She sings Madonna’s “Dress You Up” in a really deep voice and accent from Ivory Coast. It’s a mess. “Oh, baby, You have al the drama but no notes,” Steven said. “Your melody is going all over the place. You got to pull those wild horses in.”
Lopez had to say no and she hated it. “I didn’t sign up for this!” she screeched. “I want to go home!”
They must have planned this for day one because Ryan is asking them as if it was the first day. It’s all in the editing, eh?
“Idol” is also jumping on the “Jersey Shore” bandwagon by playing that angle up although they didn’t really do so in the past when they auditioned at the Meadowlands. (It used to be more about New York, not Jersey.) At 8:30, we meet Tiffany Rios, a New Jersey gal through and through and tan enough to boot.
She sings an original about being put through “Idol.” She’s surprisingly good, even with those stars on her breasts. Okay, that high note was a bit off but otherwise, “America needs me for higher ratings on TV,” she croons.
“Two reasons why America needs you,” said Randy.
“You are trying to blind me with those,” Steven said.
She does “Power of Love” and while she’s milking it, she’s actually not half bad. “You can sing your tushala off,” said Steven, already inventing words.
She’s through, of course.
Three unnamed bad singers are next. Steven lets them down easily. Lopez struggles with the word “no,” even more than Paula Abdul. She rejects awful Melkia Wheatfall and feels guilty about it.
At 8:41 p.m., there’s Robbie Rosen, a 16 year old from Merrick, Long Island who waited eight years to try out. He opts for the Beatles “Yesterday” and is shockingly good. He clearly has prepared for this moment. “Wow,” everybody says.
“This has been my dream forever,” Robbie said. “I am so happy!”
“Best in New Jersey,” Steven mused.
Steven Tyler, the rock star, emotes over some hotties. Chris Codeiro, an 18-year-old Boy Scout who goes to Fordham and is against texting and driving. He looks like he’s ready to fish.
He does an incredibly cheesy “My Way.” His enunciation is painfully bad. “You scared everybody in the room,” Steven said.
“How did you do this for 10 years?” Jennifer asks Randy.
Michael Perotta, a Worcester, MA student, sings “Proud Mary.” I don’t know if we’ve ever seen anyone who less like an “American Idol.” He looks like my local IT guy channeling Taylor Hicks. “Did you eat a lot of paint chips as a child?” Steven said (the harshest line tonight). ” ‘American Idol’ has a higher standard.”
“What we have here is a failure to communicate,” Steven said, referencing “Cool Hand Luke.”
Ashley Sullivan loves Britney Spears. “Love you Brit Brit!” she said, pulling out a photo of Brit to remind us what she looks like. She’s a little nutty, but she actually comes across as way too theatrical. “It’s for Broadway,” Lopez said.
Lopez says yes – out of guilt. And Steven, too. “They’re both insane,” said Randy, who said no.
Clearly, this is why they sent 350 people to Hollywood. There was no Simon to control Steven and Jennifer.
Steven called that “unbridled enthusiasm.” Zero chance she’s going to get past the first round in Hollywood.
At 9:12 p.m., Victoria Huggins from North Carolina is incredibly cute, actually insufferably so. She works “Midnight Train to Georgia’ with pageant-level passion. This is the type of 16 year old that many of us find annoying. “I’m ready to be the 2011 ‘American Idol,’ ” she said. “I’ve been waiting for this since season 2!”
Of course, she gets in, whether she really deserves so.
I bet Simon would have hated her!
Next up: another 16 year old, this one with a back story about coming from Kosovo after her family won a green card lottery. Melinda Ademi is adorable and her singing of Alicia Keys, as Steven said, is “sweet and straight.” She gets three easy tickets to Hollywood.
Devyn Rush, a 20-year-old singing waitress in Time’s Square diner, has a pretty, classy voice but looks a bit ordinary. “That was delicious,” Steven said. “That was dessert to lunch.” Jennifer is right-she does need to look more like a star. Of course, she’s through.
Genise Deal has them singing along to “I’m a Believer” and the editors in the back are laughing uproariously when they say no.
At 9:34 p.m., we meet a Michael Jackson imitator Yoji “Pop” Asano from Japan who has been doing it apparently before he was born. But he sings Miley Cyrus’ “Party in the USA” while doing MJ moves. It’s bizarre and amusing.
Then we find out they have everyone singing “Party in the USA.” And as we regular know, those “reactions” to the singers doing this song are inserted. They do these typically without the judges there.
Then three baddies: Jaclyn Blythe, Imah Abasumoh, Rob Palmay. Simon would have killed them but instead, we are getting three Paulas on that front.
First real sob story. A 16-year-old Brielle Von Hugel from Staten Island had a father with throat cancer scare. She does “Endless Love.” She’s not always in key and her moves are a bit amateurish. I’m not liking her much. “You got a beautiful voice,” Steven said. Randy brings his dad in. “You have a tiny bit of work to do,” Jennifer said but she says yes. “You have potential,” Randy said. I can’t imagine her making the top 40 unless she really improves between August and January.
Travis Orlando, another 16 year old, this one from Bronx, who was in a shelter for two years while his dad was sick. They even stopped by the shelter. Being the last audition, you know he’s good. He is. He does a very soulful “Eleanor Rigby” and then a jaunty “I’m Yours.” Randy: “I like your singing voice. You have to shake out the whole vibe.”
Jennifer: “You have a unique tone to your voice.” Steve: “You sing beautiful.” They all say yes.
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107 comments Add your comment
deke
January 19th, 2011
9:26 pm
Jennifer is already getting on my nerves. I miss Simon!!!
Rodney Ho
January 19th, 2011
9:28 pm
I’m about 40 minutes behind you all. Hope all is going well!
Mercedes S.
January 19th, 2011
9:43 pm
Just got back from bad movie. Will watch rest live, then catch up!
Mercedes S.
January 19th, 2011
9:49 pm
Ah, Brielle… flower in hair, 16, cancer-Dad… you know she’s going to H-wood before that first melisma…
Rodney Ho
January 19th, 2011
9:49 pm
Several folks have gotten through that Simon would have shut down in a heartbeat! Now we know why 350 people made it to Hollywood!
Kath
January 19th, 2011
9:58 pm
Started out well..but not ending well IMO..
kelly&carriefan
January 19th, 2011
10:18 pm
Maybe it’s because he’s been bored with the show for a while, but I really am not missing Simon as much as I thought I would.
Last time we had auditions, we had Simon already mentally checked out, Ellen wasn’t there until Hollywood, Randy being well, Randy…and Kara. I like that the judges are being supportive, and FUN because they’re making the show feel new and refreshed. They also seemed to focus more on the better singers. Yay.
So far, they get a thumbs up for me. That said, it’s way early in the game. It will be interesting to see how they do once the show goes live and they don’t have the benefit of editing.
Willow B
January 19th, 2011
10:24 pm
Some of Steven Tyler’s comments made me laugh until I cried. I’ll watch season 10 if for no other reason than to see what he says next.
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January 19th, 2011
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Rodney Ho
January 19th, 2011
10:38 pm
True. Simon was checked out by last year. And his nasty comments were kind of tired and no longer surprising. There is some fresh energy with this new trio (at least 2/3 are new) and that’s a good thing. And they definitely have a happy vibe. I’m now watching “Live to Dance.” What’s up with that Pussycat Dolls’ judge’s hair?
woop woop
January 19th, 2011
11:00 pm
who sings the song that was in the background as they were telling Travis Orlando’s story????
sls
January 19th, 2011
11:05 pm
Steven Tyler is HILARIOUS!!!! The show is worth watching for him if for nothing else. Wish he had been here a long time ago…
crackbaby
January 19th, 2011
11:10 pm
Pukey. The season opener was pukey. The talent sucked and the panel is a rudderless craft adrift in a vast, listless sea. Idol won’t even be on TV next season if this continues. Blech….
American Idol 2010 | ‘American Idol’ auditions, episode 1, season 10: just say no? No!
January 19th, 2011
11:25 pm
[...] here to see the original: ‘American Idol’ auditions, episode 1, season 10: just say no? No! [...]
Janet
January 19th, 2011
11:42 pm
BNL were right –It’s all been done before. They really let a lot of mediocrity through. Yawn.
SarahK
January 19th, 2011
11:43 pm
This is a JOKE!! Bring back Simon and Paula!! Steven Tyler is entertaining for all the wrong reasons, and J Lo is a crashing bore. I don’t expect Idol to finish out the season. It’s done; stick a fork in it.
cyberchick
January 19th, 2011
11:44 pm
I think the show was great!!! Steve is a hoot. The judges seem to go together well. I loved it.
Mercedes S.
January 19th, 2011
11:46 pm
Much better than I expected – the three seem to take their judging seriously. My favorites: Robbie Rosen and the “unbridled enhusiast”.
Tom
January 19th, 2011
11:52 pm
Do not like it, I bet they will lose at least 30% of their viewers. A 60 year old rocker with an attractive movie star, who does not like to say no, will not be successful in my opinion. Will not watch anymore!!
linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
January 19th, 2011
11:54 pm
okay i decided to avoid all prior comments, my son just got up and i’m watching on dvr …. i’m just afraid of what this year will be like, starting off … i’m still nervous about the 15 yo thing… i don’t like that they’re saying “yes yes yes” to people we don’t even get a single note of their audition.
meh.
interesting that tyler closes his eyes frequently to listen … good for him!
i was prepared not to want to see him judging, but he’s not a male paula, like i thought he would be — j lo needs a backbone, but that will come, i hope
Nutmeg
January 19th, 2011
11:58 pm
Eh. I find audition shows dull. Most of Hollywood (except the singing) is pretty dull, too. Liked Melinda. Liked Devyn, liked Travis, and surprisingly liked Ashley Sullivan. I’m kind of rooting for her a bit, mostly because she seemed *completely* unforced and unproduced. But I’ll really be glad when this part is over.
Braves #17 Fan
January 20th, 2011
12:02 am
Due to so many things going on, I wasn’t going to watch this season, but ended up watching tonight and was really impressed with the judges. It was refreshing to be spared those super tacky losing contestants. You know… the ones that have to be bleeped with American Idol logos over their mouths and hands.
linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
January 20th, 2011
12:03 am
i’m at least happy that they are not (yet??!!) picking on each other and spending a ton of time being the “stars” of the show instead of focusing on the …. *ahem* …. talent.
wow! i didn’t know anyone that age even ever HEARD of “thoroughly modern millie” !!!!
JTesla
January 20th, 2011
12:10 am
My daughters first comment regarding Steven Tyler: “he’s not nice to look at!” No, he’s not, but he is funny, he appreciates talent, and he can say no. Very refreshing.
Joey E
January 20th, 2011
12:11 am
I have never missed one episode of Idol. I thought with Simon leaving the show was going to be a bust. To my ultimate surprise, I believe the new panel brings more credibility to the show than ever before. Although they seem light hearted, I really listened to the comments and for the first time in 10 years I heard REAL “show biz” comments and concrete advise from REAL experts.
No more egotistical comments coming from over-inflated NOBODIES. These judges are the REAL DEAL. IMO, this was the BEST Idol kick-off in 10 years!!! Sure they put through a few that are questionable, but maybe they are seeing and or hearing something that previous judges just prematurely dismissed.
I have to admit, there were a few I thought shouldn’t have made it through, but I replayed the audition, closed my eyes and listened again…..then I understood exactly why they were put through.
Tyler is a GENIUS and think he has a golden ear. J Lo, although being sweet, will in the end be a big player in selecting probably the best idol yet. Even Randy seems to be better.
I can’t wait to see how it all plays out. We may be witnessing the very best season ever. I am LOVING IT! Best group of judges ever assembled!!!! BRAVO IDOL!!
Jessie
January 20th, 2011
12:23 am
Check out Yoji “Pop”’s audition RIGHT HERE: http://tinyurl.com/yojipop It’s SO HILARIOUS!!!
linny ,,,=^..^=,,,
January 20th, 2011
12:29 am
some good auditions….but nothing just blew me away. and yeah, brielle (sp?) was bound to be put through this round, good enough, but as they said, lots of work
again, meh…. we’ll see what pans out when the crowds are whittled away. at least, i HOPE we’ll see some real talent down the road…
i’ll try to get the kid out of the room tomorrow night and be here with you guys. but if there’s “real time” chat, i have never been able to figure it out, so i’ll be on “slow time chat” guys, if i can
nite nite!!
ACE OF HEARTS
January 20th, 2011
12:30 am
A kinder gentlier Idol. Maybe our politicos could follow along. Good show tonight, I think the best thing was that for the most part they did focus on the music and not the stars.
yeahhh, 'bout that...
January 20th, 2011
12:33 am
Kinder Gentler !?
Hey, don’t get me wrong… I’m enjoying the show. Steven’s great, JLo just what we wanted and somehow there’s more real Randy even if there is less Randy!
But Kinder Gentler?
how did the editting room conversation go on the decision to include in the midway commercial lead out footage of the chubby teenage girl with the green shirt stumble face first from her tear streaked huff into a full-thump skid down serious brick stairs to a horrified stop AND THEN SLITHER AWAY, injured and humiliated in every convievable way.
Did anyone, any one at all, say – even think – ‘yeah, maybe we could do without that…”
JTesla
January 20th, 2011
12:37 am
Robbie – former wheelchair boy – was great. Victoria… most annoying person EVER. Take it down a notch girl, but wait Steven Tyler checking her out! LOL.
However, Bosnia girl has my vote.
Best line by Steven, at least as close as I can remember, said to Randy when Jennifer went to hug a contestant: “you looked down didn’t you”
yeahhh, 'bout that...
January 20th, 2011
12:39 am
JTesla – what did that mean? you looked down didn’t you. i heard it, but didn’t get it.
JTesla
January 20th, 2011
12:56 am
yeahhh, ’bout that… are you a female? I only ask because it’s a guy thing, he didn’t look down to the ground, just down a little bit below waist level.
JTesla
January 20th, 2011
12:59 am
Finally getting to the end here on the West coast. A very good show. I’m sort of over the whole audition thing, it used to be so entertaining, but it’s just been done too much. However, the judge change may be just what was needed to place the focus back on the contestants. The last few years it has been about the judges, now it is about the talent, with the judges providing some background entertainment.
Elvis the King
January 20th, 2011
1:09 am
Great Show! Much better than I even imagined. Steven Tyler was Fantastic!
allenman
January 20th, 2011
1:10 am
Beatles? Hallelujah I love her So? Ever hear of Ray Charles? Stop reading this newpaper and go buy some music.
yeahhh, 'bout that...
January 20th, 2011
1:15 am
yeah… female. and I figured ‘looked down’ as in down her top, but whose?, JLo’s or the contestant? – and if that’s not it then still … what didn’t i notice? nice bootie or (good grief) on the front side look down? yeeesh…
I liked the show. better than the anticipation of what daddy simon would say and the requisite eye rolling and bickering that would follow.
but still think showing the green shirt girl fall, skid and crawl was !@#$ing mean.
talk about teen bullying. how ’bout a positive teen message idol?
Noreen
January 20th, 2011
1:26 am
Hey Rodney,
You said, “Phew!
I’m not sure she would have gotten through with the original three on board. I can’t imagine Simon would have said yes to that one.”
Try watching the show again…they mentioned if she didn’t get better she would be cut the first day of Hollywood week…just like last time. So obviously she got by with the original three on board.
JTesla
January 20th, 2011
1:26 am
Well JLo is famous for her bootie… well at least to some people. I’d never look at something like that, no not me.
As for the fall down girl, I kind of agree with you. Don’t need that, we have good auditions and bad auditions, but let’s keep the focus on the auditions, not on falling down or filming spaz girl coming out of the Honey Bucket.
Halsey
January 20th, 2011
4:39 am
I didn’t really like Tyler as a judge. I want Simon back. J-Lo does a good job if you like the sweet, pretty, softy girl on the panel. I like her because she is kinda similar to Paula.
Drifter
January 20th, 2011
6:14 am
I managed to watch most of it, but they were giving away a lot of tickets to people with no chance of winning. I’m not sure that is kind, but maybe the airlines need the business. I’m hoping the judges will learn how to say no as the season develops. Simon was obnoxious at times, but he could spot talent when he saw it – that’s what I’m missing from this panel of judges.
pcBobby
January 20th, 2011
7:15 am
Simon wore out his welcome two years before he left. Paula got out at the right time. Ellen and Kara were sad attempts. Something had to be done. Right now it looks like Tyler is keeping the flame somewhat alive. Randy and J Lo need to raise their game when these live shows hit. The producers should have picked another record exec who is removed from the performing aspect of the business. Indeed the show needs the star power so how about replacing Randy with Howard Stern and J Lo with a David Geffen-type?
Nia D
January 20th, 2011
7:23 am
Hi, I’m The Girl that the American Idol Editors decided to humilate on national television. Sad thing about this is that I can sing, and the only reason why they didnt let me through is because my voice is a mature voice for a 16 year old. I think that A.I is just full of money hungry bastads that LOVE to put random junk on their show to get some laughs… ohhh and by the way.. I’ve sung background for Elton John, Billy Joel, Fantasia, John legend and many more… soooo I’m done.
dt4c
January 20th, 2011
7:36 am
I actually really enjoyed this show. J-Lo is just easy on the eyes. I thought it was immensely more entertaining than the last 2 years.
Heather MacDonald
January 20th, 2011
7:45 am
I started watching with a sense of trepidation last night, but Jennifer Lopez (who is drop-dead gorgeous, by the way) and Steven Tyler (who isn’t LOL) won me over in minutes. I’m still no fan of Randy, but the other two gave some seriously good advice to the contestants about looks, stage presence, etc. that made me proud of them. Jennifer may have had trouble saying no at first, but I think she’ll be fine with saying it as they go along. Is she soft-hearted? Maybe, but the wheat and the chaff will get separated out as soon as Iovine gets hold of them.
clyde crashcut
January 20th, 2011
7:51 am
I like it when Steven Tyler sometimes sing with the contestants or beats on the table like a drum. I see why he has been so successful all these years!!
Deirdre
January 20th, 2011
8:06 am
Morning!
I’m more than just a little pleased. My horror over Steve Tyler went away in the first couple of minutes. He’s funny with the talentless and very respectful with the talented.
As for JLo…I’m willing to give her some more time. Her inability to get the “no” word out will be gone(I predict) by the 3rd city. Once she stops being afraid to be honest, she’ll make a good judge.
As for missing Simon….I didn’t. The man didn’t give a flying you-know-what about the show for the last 2 or 3 years and it showed. Even Randy started to perk up a bit with the newbies sitting beside him.
Re all the talent that got a Hollywood ticket: I thought the show was about potential. I’m happier seeing kids who can sing get tickets to Hollywood than the Tatiana/Norman Gentle/Sanjaya types who are there solely to amuse the audience. If the judges want a second look at someone, then that person ought to get a pass to Hollywood.
All in all….I have high hopes for the season. So far, so good!
Bored
January 20th, 2011
8:34 am
IT SUCKED! Jlo thinks way too much of herself – Randy seemed lost, Steven Tyler was spaced out – worst season ever!
Rosita
January 20th, 2011
8:35 am
I was pleasantly surprised by the judges, especially Tyler. He’s just the right balance of serious and shtick. I liked the chemistry among the three very much. Good start!
Deirdre
January 20th, 2011
8:35 am
Rodney…next time tell us when you move to a new thread. Normally I’d notice but I was engrossed in the show.
Nana
January 20th, 2011
8:42 am
Good Morning!
I didn’t try to converse here last night, as I was busy filling up my notebook with notes. It’s hard to write, watch, listen and type all at once. Figured I can always type my comments the next day.
Well, I was plesantly surprised last night with the judges. I thought Tyler was funny, astute, and he really listened, JLo will have to get some backbone and learn to say “No” when it’s warranted. I can’t say anything about Randy.
IMO, the two best that were put through were Robbie Rosen and Travis Orlando. I thought Robbie’s arrrangement on “Yesterday” was really good and original. Travis did very well on “Eleanor RIgby”. Both of them made an excellent first impression and I hope they will go far in this competition.
I also liked Caleb Hawley, Tiffany Rios (minus the stars), Devyn Rush and Brielle Von Hugel.
Highlander
January 20th, 2011
8:53 am
Good morning!
Okay, two thumbs up!! Steven Tyler is definitely the new start judge – just not in the snarky-Simon way. He was hilarious! (”Did you eat a lot of paint chips as a child?”) But he actually does listen and gives some good critiques along with the brevity. He truly is the wild card! And I think he’ll turn out to be the one that’s most honest in his assessment of the contestants. I don’t see him allowing any posers through.
JLo is easily the most beautiful judge we’ve had (not counting some of the guest judges) and I agree that she’ll most likely get over the ‘guilty feeling’ and learn that no means no!
Randy actually seemed a bit toned down and content with letting Steven and JLo take center stage. We’ll see if that lasts but at least (for me) he wasn’t too annoying last night. Thought he did an okay job at keeping things rolling.
Bonus points awarded: I don’t recall hearing the word ‘artistry’ even one time last night!
Sam-A
January 20th, 2011
8:54 am
Still reflecting on how I feel: initially, not thrilled with Tyler, ok with JLo, but please learn to say the “NO” word! I did not see a single “Kelly” or “Michael Johns” standout that I’ll remember during Hollywood week. Those 2 I remember completely when the show finally cranked up.
Maybe because I’m a Beatles purist, but I wasn’t so impressed with the renditions of “Yesterday” and Eleanor Rigby”. However, the guy who did “halleluah, I love her so” was ok.
At least not discouraged that the season is lost!
Mercedes, what’s the “terrible” movie you saw last night?
dawgfan
January 20th, 2011
8:56 am
This show has ran its course and is overstaying its welcome. Its the same crap but just not as entertaining without Cowell. I don’t know what some of you are seeing in Steven Tyler. He barely said anything and when he did it was incredibly lame and cliched. And he showed a little too much interest in the teenage girls if you ask me. It was almost creepy. This show’s only saving grace is that Jennifer Lopez remains smoking hot and is fun to look at. Other than that its not worth anyone’s time.
Lara
January 20th, 2011
8:57 am
And true to my word that I won’t watch J Lopez….didn’t watch! (Actually forgot it was on…and did not DVR it) I might give it a chance if I am bored. I am just not feeling the AI love this year. Sad…
dawgfan
January 20th, 2011
8:58 am
”Did you eat a lot of paint chips as a child?”
David Spade’s character in “Tommy Boy,” 1995.
Oh wow. Steven Tyler watches movies on cable. I’m so impressed.
Highlander
January 20th, 2011
9:01 am
“Steven Tyler was spaced out – worst season ever!” – Bored, 8:34am
Evidently we were watching two different shows! To me, Tyler seemed focused and intent when listening to the auditions.
Sam-A, Wow! That’s quite a chasm between Kelly and Michael Johns!!
Mo Schreibman
January 20th, 2011
9:05 am
My wife who should know better was much enamored with that newcomer Steven Tyler. Fortunately for him he was in Jersey someplace if you can appreciate my meaning.
Deirdre
January 20th, 2011
9:08 am
Lara…that makes me sad.
Stevie was very funny…..as opposed to Simon “bored sourpuss” Cowell.
But tonight’s show will give us more insight into how the season will go. Plus, taped and edited is one thing. ‘Live’ is a whole other kettle of fish.
Highlander
January 20th, 2011
9:11 am
Kettle of fish??? D., are you sure you weren’t watching Food Network???
59bulldawg
January 20th, 2011
9:16 am
There were quite a few contestants last night who received a Hollywood ticket who probably would not have if Simon had returned. But unless they up their game, they’ll be quickly cut during the next round. Some of those were no doubt for compelling story or entertainment reasons. But I thought Stephen and Jennifer were great additions after the debacle last season of replacing Paula Abdul with the horrendous Ellen DeGeneres. With Jennifer you get the best of what Paula contributed and Stephen was firm and funny but also kind-hearted. A big plus is that all three judges, Randy, Stephen, and Jennifer seem to actually like each other and they all seem to get along with Ryan. Idol lost me last season, and DeGeneres especially was horrible, but they got me back again last night. It should be a very entertaining season.
Sam-A
January 20th, 2011
9:16 am
Highlander, I agree Kelly is totally untouchable, but I really loved Michael John – he’s gorgeous, has a great voice and style, and chose some great songs (come on, Otis Redding – the best!). I remembered “The Aussie” from the first moment he appeared in auditions.
kelly&carriefan
January 20th, 2011
9:16 am
I love Kelly as much as y’all…maybe a bit more (ha), but I’m not expecting someone of her caliber to be shown on night one or ever,really. I suspect that the editing will also “hide” some of the better singers as they’ve done in previous years.
For those who want a funny recap, Slezak moved from EW, but is still recapping. The line that made me laugh most:
Er, I mean…dang.
…and a new obsession with vocalists who were just finishing up second grade when Kelly Clarkson was learning the lyrics to “A Moment Like This.” (Have fun swallowing that thought along with your Metamucil and your chewable calcium!)
Source: http://www.tvline.com/2011/01/american-idol-season-10-premiere-recap-new-jersey/
Honest and Frank Discussion
January 20th, 2011
9:18 am
Hey Rodney Ho –
“Hallelujah, I Love Her So” a lesser known Beatles song? What planet are you on? It’s a Ray Charles song. You know, a famous singer who was BORN IN GEORGIA.
On top of that, the Beatles didn’t even cover it. It was recorded/covered by the Quarrymen, a predecessor to the Beatles, and that recording has Stuart Sutcliffe – not Paul McCartney – playing bass.
Lisa
January 20th, 2011
9:20 am
IT SUCKED! Jlo thinks way too much of herself – Randy seemed lost, Steven Tyler was spaced out – worst season ever!
kelly&carriefan
January 20th, 2011
9:22 am
So far, Kenzie, Travis Orlando, and Kosovo girl did really well. I do hope that Singing Snookie gets over the “shock” factor. She’s got a better voice than I thought she’d have.
PS. Sam-A, quite the opposite, Kelly is actually kinda touchy feely. Well, with me, at least.
Mo Schriebman
January 20th, 2011
9:32 am
If Ricky Ricardo got a ticket to Hollywood then some of those Jersey kids last night on the Idol program deserved the ones they got as well. Ricky did not last and they will not either but that is beside the point I am making.
Deirdre
January 20th, 2011
9:34 am
k&cf…thanks for the Slezak link…I love that guy!
Lisa…I saw NOTHING about Tyler last night that looked “spaced out”
Sam…I’m a big fan of Michael Johns as well although I concede that, while sometimes he’s fantastic, other times I’ve found him to be a disappointment.
Harriett
January 20th, 2011
9:36 am
I liked Tyler fine, but I did not care for JLo at all. I expected so much more from her than him, but it was actually the other way around. I am a voice in the wilderness here, but I actually love Randy and hope he stays around. I think we need a tie to the past here to anchor the show. Maybe after the others are veterans and can make it their own show I might not miss him, but for now. I am a fan of Randy being there. I do love the focus on the “good” singers and less on the awful ones. I was not blown away by any of them last night, though. The little NC gal can go home as far as I am concerned. Annoying is not a strong enough word to describe her.
And, “Hallelujah, I Just Love Her So,” is a Ray Charles song “for me.”
Mo, better watch that wife.
Harriett
January 20th, 2011
9:38 am
@ Honest and Frank: Hey, I said the same thing, but I said it nicer and with a whole lot less vehemence.
Nana
January 20th, 2011
9:40 am
Sam-A – Rachael Zevita is the one who sung “Hallelujah”, so it wasn’t a guy per your post of 8:45.
After only ONE show, how can anyone make the assumption that this is the worst season ever? That they are never going to watch again and blah, blah, blah! Apparently, they are interested, or they wouldn’t have bothered to post a comment.
Mo Schriebman
January 20th, 2011
9:41 am
What comes after cougar and then what comes after that assuming they are still around? I meant to ask previously for a friend of mine.
curious
January 20th, 2011
9:48 am
Idol is a singing competition. Simon always said that. So, the current mix of judges seems to reinforce that format. And there’s less drama among the judges. That’s good. Last season was a joke. The singers were almost secondary to the drama and “camera hugging” among the 4 judges. Here’s hoping the new doesn’t wear off. I like this format.
Sam-A
January 20th, 2011
9:51 am
Nana: Not “Hallelulah”, I was talking about “Hallelulah, I Love Her So”, a totally different song that a very laid-back dude sang in the 2nd hour.
K&C: HA HA – you so funny! Talent-wise, Kelly is totally and completely untouchable, as far as I’m concerned! However, I can see in your particular situation, you consider her very “touchable”. No matter her weight, she’s totally adorable and likeable.
And, Deirdre, I agree there were a couple of disappointing nights for Michael Johns, but overall he was great and what a gorgeous guy! I could turn into a total cougar over him!
Bigred
January 20th, 2011
9:52 am
BORING
Momma Homeslice
January 20th, 2011
9:52 am
Better than I thought it would be. Randy seems to get along with Steven Tyler better than he ever did with Simon. Remembering when JLo was a guest host, she gave some pretty constructive critiques so I wonder how much of her “I can’t say No” was acting per producer instructions. As for sending 350 to Hollywood – A.I. producers must have a new game plan for this year that allowed the judges to let that many to go through. As for some of Steven Tyler’s comments to the teenage girls, he is a dad of 4 girls – seemed like he was trying to let these young girls know whether they were overdoing the “skank” bit or dressing appropriately for their age. I think this is going to be a refreshing season. I just hope they find some honest-to-goodness singing & star talent. Some of A.I. previous winners & runner-ups have been a big snooze.
AlwaysAVol
January 20th, 2011
9:53 am
I think Courtney Love or the lady from “The Weakest Link” as a judge would have added some tension….
Deirdre
January 20th, 2011
9:53 am
Nana…Sam was talking about Hallelujah, I Just Love Her So” It was a guy who sang that.
And I agree that “never watch the show again” is silly after just one episode. Those pronouncements usually come from people whose pre-conceived beliefs prevent them from actually SEEING what’s on the screen.
KPH
January 20th, 2011
10:01 am
Good morning good People! Great show last night. The show has been brought back from the dull boring same old thing that we had to endure the last couple of years. Refreshing new judges without that holier than thou attitude will carry the show another few seasons at least. Enjoyed it very much.
KPH
January 20th, 2011
10:14 am
Lisa at 9:20 was obviously not watching the same show I was. Either that or she got a speeding ticket, flat tire, car broke down, was in an accident or worse on the way home last night and had an everything is bad and nothing is good were all doomed I just know it kind of night. I know I have had a few of those nights before.
lwa
January 20th, 2011
10:14 am
Steven Tyler is sooo funny. I am going to watch the show just b/c of him. I was a fan until season 7 and stopped watching. I will resume again just b/c of Steven.
archangel
January 20th, 2011
10:39 am
It’s only fitting that Hudson, Daughtry, and Lambert got exposure along with the official winners of the first 9 seasons. After all, Jennifer and Chris have been much more successful than several of the AI season titlists and Adam possesses the potential to be someday be recognized as the de facto series champion. Adam Lambert & Carrie Underwood possess the best chances of becoming cultural icons. We’ll know for sure in about 5-10 years.
Nana
January 20th, 2011
10:50 am
Sam-A and Deirdre, I stand corrected. I must have missed that one when I took my doggies out. Sorry about that!
tgreen
January 20th, 2011
11:07 am
Love the premier. Love the new judges. It was refreshing and funny; eventhough, some of the talent that was let through last night was awful. Eventhough I haven’t watch the entire season in a few years, I think that I will watch this entire season for the judges’ reactions.
Mercedes S.
January 20th, 2011
11:25 am
Amen to that, Archangel; by giving non-winners like Adam, Chris and Jennifer H. exposure at the intro, Idol tells audience and competitors alike that you don’t have to “win” to become a success.
Sam-A, I have to hold any public comment about the bad movie I saw until it actually opens… tomorrow ok?
kelly&carriefan
January 20th, 2011
11:38 am
Mercedes, if I were to venture a guess, and get it right, can I get a “Congrats” balloon?
Linny
January 20th, 2011
11:42 am
Steven Tyler is a good addition. J Lo on the other hand…she’s talented and beautiful but she is so afraid of saying “no” that she lets people thru that have absolutley NO right to go to Hollywood. She needs to either get a back bone and be HONEST or the show needs to find someone else. Glad Randy is still there, I have always liked him but……I miss Simon, he was the best part of the show. He may have been a little rude sometimes but at least he was honest and didn’t put someone thru that couldn’t sing. If I had my way, it would be back to Randy, Simon and Paula……it will never be the same.
JTesla
January 20th, 2011
12:04 pm
First, Jennifer Lopez is Jennifer Lopez. She isn’t Paula, she isn’t Simon, or anyone else. However, she DID say no last night, the editing made it appear that she struggled, but all I saw was a repetition of only a few struggles. We could go back and do the same thing with Paula when she was on the show. She had difficulty saying no, but at the same time she did end up saying no to many people.
Don’t judge her based on what a voice over told you in a single episode.
idolblogwatcher
January 20th, 2011
12:12 pm
With this being the 10th season, the fresh panel of judges was what Idol needed. I was surprised that I liked Steven Tyler…he is funny! I agree w/some that J.Lo will get used to saying No. Really liked Travis Orlando & his family. Their story had me very emotional!
Victoria Huggins, the 16yr old from NC was cute as a button! The funniest thing was when they showed the redudancy of several other teens the same thing…”I want this sooo bad!” My 16-yr old daughter couldn’t stop laughing and had me re-wind that part 3 times. Loved when she tried to appeal to Randy with “Yo Yo Dawg!” Hilarious!
BooDiddly
January 20th, 2011
12:18 pm
Idol is already a better show in Audition #1 than the entire LAST season put together! For the better.
Rickster
January 20th, 2011
12:25 pm
RoHo “And though Randy Jackson was still there, he added nothing much new to the Randy Jackson equation.”
Just goes to show the old adage is right – “you can’t teach an old ‘dawg’ new tricks.”
Hello everybody!
wreckedpizza
January 20th, 2011
12:25 pm
Glad the new season has started. Not overwhelmed by any contestant yet but see some potential.
However, I am going to try to refrain from picking a favorite this year because that always is the kiss of death for that person.
Enjoyed Steven Tyler and loved Jennifer Lopez. I would watch just to see her! I think she will be a good judge and will add insight as the show progresses. She’s a performer—-this is not going to scare her.
Rickster
January 20th, 2011
12:26 pm
Whoa! A mid-day Linny sighting?? Hello!
Deirdre
January 20th, 2011
12:54 pm
Not sure that was our linny, Rickster.
wreckedpizza
January 20th, 2011
12:56 pm
Rodney’s posted a new entry, BTW.
kelly&carriefan
January 20th, 2011
12:59 pm
Yeah, “mid day”Linny didn’t “feel” like “our” Linny. That’s a lot of quotes…I know.
Superficial comment: J Lo’s team did a great job…she looked amazing.
blkshepherd
January 20th, 2011
1:06 pm
Blackshepherd’s 2.5 cents.
I attempted to watch AI last night and tried very hard to keep my Un flattering remarks to myself, after all I am not the one in these peoples shoes..contestants or judges. But I will make a few observations and as one of the Original watchers of the show from the beginning, I will say Steve Tyler suprised me and entertained me..he kills me with that Yaaaaaaaaaa! although I wont go as far as my co worker who thinks he’s good Looking(shes 60+ but I think Steve is too, sooo).
One contestant that made me literally laugh out loud was the Asian Michael jackson..when he started dancing moonwalking and semi crotch grab(though he didnt connect with his hand kinda motioned there for the affect I guess) Then a couple of spins(Omg)He was hilarious. But for the most part it was folks who probably thought if they
Screamed as LOUD as their lungs could muster..it would impress the judges..I think it startled them more than impressed them.
One female screamed so Loud all Steve could say was Wow. Of course I had already beat him to the punch by saying it a second before he did. wow.
As for Jennifer..No.I wont quit watching the show until the last 12 because of her comments of “cute, and pretty”..But she better learn to Pull out a No or her critique will not be taken seriously or constructively.
I will bet when she first started out folks didnt have a problem saying No to her.
I did get a little sick of the Kissing up to judges though..Oldest trick in the book..And that begging and crying and falling out and acting crazy aint gonna cut it either..Still inspite of What I prior said about Steve..I will eat a slice of humble pie and
say..I believe He will be the Main Reason to continue to watch the show. Randy and Jennifer both still Need work as they Lack what Steve has and thats Energy and Charisma.
SLM
January 20th, 2011
1:33 pm
To Honest and Frank Discussion: If we must hash through these details, let’s get them straight: The Quarrymen disbanded in 1959, and I don’t believe Stuart Sutcliffe joined Lennon, McCartney, and Harrison until they were called Johnny and the Moondogs in late 1959. When the recording of “Hallelujah, I Love Her So” was made—sometime in 1960 (Source: Anthology 1 CD), they may have still been called the Silver Beatles, but they were definitely Beatles rather than Quarrymen. In August, 1960, they added Pete best and became simply The Beatles. You are correct that Sutcliffe was the bass player, but it’s Paul singing, so I’m not sure what your point was.
Sam-A
January 20th, 2011
2:18 pm
Brilliant, SLM! Another true Beatles fan. And for me, any song the Beatles recorded trumps any previous or future recordings of same song (tho they did play the Ray Charles version on Idol last night). They out-Buddied Holly (much as I love him), out-Isleyed the Bros. (and I love them too), and Paul outsang who-ever-the-devil first sang “Til There Was You”. Thankfully however, most of their recordings were their own wonderful songs.
SLM
January 20th, 2011
2:57 pm
I’m with you, Sam-A! It was nice to hear Ray’s version on Idol, and only fair, since he wrote the song (and was a total genius!). Eddie Cochran did a nice version of it, too, if you have a chance to give it a listen…
Kitty
January 20th, 2011
3:51 pm
What is this high school Idol? What’s with all the babies they’re letting thru?
I still don’t think anyone they try and replace Simon and Paula with, will work. They are the face of Idol. They WERE Idol as we all know it.