We don’t need another hero, but America certainly craves another pop idol. After all, the world would be a grim place without Ruben Studdard around. Simon Cowell already weighed in, on Oprah, saying Adam Lambert deserves to win. And we all know that anything said on the “O” show becomes this country’s mantra. So Adam should be sitting pretty.
The most entertaining moment of the night, besides Adam’s performances, was the cat fight between resident Diva, Simon, and the fourth wheel, Kara DioGuardi. Hey producers, you should stream a judges camera on the website. Their reactions and grimaces must make for great entertainment.
Danny Gokey brought in the funk with his Paula Abdul pick, “Dance Little Sister.” He even broke it down dueting with a saxophone. Lisa Simpson would be so proud. Sadly, Kara wasn’t feeling his gyrating hips. Nor was Simon, who referred to the moves as desperate. Hip by 1970’s standards, Danny sings better than he entertains. The voice is what sets him apart from Kris Allen. Neither are deserving of the “Idol” title, so it’s a fight for redheaded stepchild status from this point forward.
It was intriguing that Danny opted to re-arrange his second song, veering away from the traditional Joe Cocker sound of “You Are So Beautiful.” Despite the change up, he hit every note with perfection. This was the performance that gave him a shot at second place.
Kris decided it was bring an instrument to work day playing both the piano and his guitar throughout the night. First up was a song chosen by Kara and Randy Jackson, “Apologize,” by OneRepublic. Because, America was in desperate need of a second-rate cover of a song still overplayed on the radio. It’s not a big enough tune to standout with in the final stretch. Following up OneRepublic with a Kanye West song gave Kris an actual chance at competing with Danny, but only a small one.
Simon, Simon, Simon. Adam, Adam, Adam. They both walked a fine line in choosing U2’s “One.” With Bono and the gang remaining my choice for greatest band in the world, covering one of their songs is risky business. But, one should rarely doubt Adam. The kid has got something that’s far greater than “Idol.” He belted parts of the song that I’ve never imagined getting such treatment. I’m fairly certain I heard Bono clapping with approval from across Central Park here in New York. It was no classic U2 melody, but it was an Adam original.
Adam decided to channel Steven Tyler as he ended out the night with Aerosmith’s “Cryin’.” That iconic mouth is a great fit with Adam’s wail. Rock on, dog.
Only one week to go until the grand “Idol” finale. I’ve got my dialing finger ready to go.
Photos by Michael Becker/ FOX.