Finally! Real talent. Lots and lots of it, too...wow!
Loving Steven Tyler, and was not a fan(or non-fan) before. Never a particular JL fan , but liking her on here. I'm guessing she will have beneficial criticism for the contestants when the actual competition begins. Oh what a lovely change from the Degaurdio(?) woman! I like everyone mentioned here. The young rocker reminds me a little of Adam Lambert. Maybe it's just the scream...we'll see.
My only time voting was for David Cook. How is he doing, I wonder? Yes, this is looking to be a fun season:>)

AI is soooo much better this year...steven tyler and jlo have really improved the judging and i hope will have "america" voting better because they will give much more appropriate feedback and will be more credible because they too are stars. it was really becoming such a joke with simon...........
i too was wondering about the washington intern...i thought she was definitely one of the better female singers, but haven't noticed her being pointed out during hollywood weeks

I watched the show fully last night for the first time and I find it very promising,
I love the top 24, it will be fun to see how they evolve. Those 3 judges work so well together. I want to look like Jennifer Lopez in my next life.

I planned "not" to watch this year. Was getting bored and felt AI didn't have a good chance for continuing. But your posts changed my mind. Amazing the level of talent this year and interaction with judges. Of course I am driving the family nuts while watching....their problem.

Thanks, am enjoying it.

mitch, I totally agree! Jennifer Lopez is so gorgeous, and I love how she is down to earth, not pretentious like other major stars.

LOVE AI, always have. I find Steven Tyler very, very interesting and almost mesmerising! Jennifer is gorgeous and more plesant than i would have thought. I think this year will be one of the best. I do miss Simon though. Love Casey but he may not make it, we will see. Sending wishes his way for good health and blessings.

Here is a link that might be useful: Casey

Tried to start a new one on AI, but couldn't log on??
Was wondering if any of you are feeling as we are here about S. Tyler as a judge. He's funny and sweet, but sure wish he'd step up to the plate and come up with some real critiquing, vs. a one- note Mr. Nice Guy. The only time I remember him saying anything negative was when echoing one or both of the others. Seemed that jlo was going this route also in the beginning, but she has become the real deal. Thoughts?

Moon - You're thinking of Paula. I liked her on the show.

I wasn't sure if I'd watch it this year but like it so much better with Steven and Jennifer.

James, Casey, and Pia are my favorites but it's a really great group. I remember Thia from being on America's Got Talent. I was disappointed when they let Chris Medina go. Although he could sing, I think I was cheering him on more because of his story. That was so sad. I know she's alive but didn't realize the condition Julie was in until they wheeled her in during his audition to meet the judges - which I thought was very nice.

It will be interesting to see who it comes down to. You never really hear much from others from previous seasons. Like what happened to Crystal from last year?

I just saw a commercial for a diabetes drug that Crystal is in. Very short spot.

OK, because I wasn't paying attention I googled.....
.......One Touch ad with BB King.

ML

Jacob, James, Casey and Pia are my favorites, in no particular order. Of course, I have a soft spot for Country music as well.

I loved Crystal. I thought she was great. Very talented. Looks like she has a CD (see link below). I think that many from AI that don't win go on to have successful careers. A lot of them get contracts with recording companies.

When I first heard that JLo and Steven Tyler were the replacement judges, I was very skeptical. Thought maybe I'd finally stop watching. But, I was so wrong. I think they are great. I thought Steven Tyler was probably a self absorbed jerk (even though I was always an Aerosmith fan), but he seems to be a really nice guy.

I really like Casey. I hope his health issues don't keep him from staying in it. I also like the rocker guy (James?).

Here is a link that might be useful: Cystal Bowersox

I loved Crystal. I thought she was great. Very talented. Looks like she has a CD (see link below). I think that many from AI that don't win go on to have successful careers. A lot of them get contracts with recording companies.

When I first heard that JLo and Steven Tyler were the replacement judges, I was very skeptical. Thought maybe I'd finally stop watching. But, I was so wrong. I think they are great. I thought Steven Tyler was probably a self absorbed jerk (even though I was always an Aerosmith fan), but he seems to be a really nice guy.

I really like Casey. I hope his health issues don't keep him from staying in it. I also like the rocker guy (James?).

Here is a link that might be useful: Cystal Bowersox

Thanks Jill! I'll admit I don't listen to the radio at all so former AI people are probably talked about and their stuff played more than I realize. I just would figured you'd hear about it more elsewhere also.

Does anyone else think Nayima looks similar to Tyra Banks in the face?

Oh, what happened to Fergie's face? Did anyone else think that during their performance? I don't listen to the BEP but I thought I knew what she looked like, you know? I actually thought it was someone else singing on the piano at first. The shape of her face looked different to me, like she had work done? I don't care if she did or didn't, I was just wondering if anyone else thought this?

Shee, she did look different. At first I wondered if it was really her. Less eye makeup, bright lips, much softer look, maybe some work too?

My Idol faves are still there ... Casey, Paul, James, Jacob, and Naima. Was really impressed with Stefano this week. I love Haley's voice, but have a feeling she's not going to be around much longer.

At first glance,I wondered if that was Fergie, too. She looked different somehow? Okay, so no one else watching on here feels that S. Tyler is way too reticent to make genuine critiques? Randy and jlo are working to give real feedback. His only negative comments follow what the others have offered. This time last year I had my solid favs, but too many amazing voices this year.

I agree about Haley. I really like her voice. I think she just keeps picking the wrong songs. She has a really great blues-y voice that she is not showing enough.

shee - I had no idea Crystal had a CD either! I never listen to the radio. But, I loved her, so when you mentioned her I looked. I immediately added a station to my Pandora account. I'd totally forgotten about her, so thanks for reminding me!

I also agree about Fergie. I had to ask my 10 yr old son if that was the same band that sang during half time of the super bowl. I'm so not with it, apparently.

The BE Peas did the video for Just Can't Get Enough two weeks ago. I think she just changed her makeup and hair for AI. Take a look/listen for yourself.

BE Peas video

BE Peas on AI

Jill, I'd love to hear Haley do more blues!

Okay, so no one else watching on here feels that S. Tyler is way too reticent to make genuine critiques?

I've been a Steven fan from the very early days of the band, but agree, I noticed that he is great with praise but tends to go neutral when pointing out what he perceives as a negative. I have nothing to compare to tho as far as if it's very different from prior judging. This is the first season I've ever watched. (However, that doesn't change my feelings. I still heart Steven, lol)

I'm amazed at the talent they have on there. Elimination must be tough.

Sheesharee - I just watched Fergie on DVR and I agree - I think she had a nose job - she definitely looks different. It's so funny to me when stars do this when they are well into their careers. She was pretty before - don't think she needed it.

To me it looks like she's had a nose job and something done to her chin. Whatever it is, she looked better before, IMO. She looks like Christy Brinkley now, to me anyway.

I just watched that AI video - I love that song and think Fergie looks beautiful there. At least no one's calling her dirty or old. LOL

I do like her hair lighter like this.

tina

I thought Fergie's cheecks looked filled out, injected with fillers probably.
She looked good and more rested.

I think we are maybe one of the few households that dont watch any reality TV.well except my grown DD who watches say yes to the dress- a very frightening show for parents pocketbooks.

AI is the only TV we watch other than sports (and I watch decorating shows). The funny thing is my DD got us watching it in the 2nd season (DD was a teenager then). Then once she went to college and graduated and living on her own, she no longer watches, but we are still hooked!

If you like music cooperb, you should check out AI. (It's a contest rather than reality.) I never watched it till this year, it just never sounded interesting to me. (Don't care for contest or game shows much at all.) This is different tho (better different, imho). What amazes me is the very real talent they have found out there. From all walks of life, all kinds of backgrounds, and most of them probably never would have gotten noticed.

I missed natal's link, just watched, it kind of does look like Fergie had something done. Something is different, can't quite put my finger on it...

What did y'all think about last night? I was glad to hear Jennifer Lopez tell Casey to stop all the "antics" and just sing. He's got a great, "bluesy" voice. I thought he was going to pass out when they saved him.

I know he won't win, but I love Paul, quirkiness and all, and although I didn't think I would, I love James' voice and performances. He can sing just about anything.

Lots of talent. I did not think I would enjoy this season as much as I have.

I thought Casy was going to pass out, too! Or throw up (do you think JLo was worried when he was looming over here?). DH and I thought Casey was fantastic when we first "met" him but by this week, I was tired of his same old growl. I hope he is now inspired to do something a little different. I do think he is very talented! And my heart just went out to him last night. That was an amazing "save."

I am rooting for James -- didn't like him at first but he is growing on me more each week! He reminds me so much of my DS's friend who is also named James. I also really like Paul for his quirkiness, and of course Jacob is phenomenal. I kind of think James is going to win.

Pia is obviously amazing, but she reminds me of Celine Dion, who I can't stand. I would love to see her do something more upbeat -- just to see if she can do it.

This is the only reality show we watch, and we have been hooked for the past 8 seasons!

My 10 y.o. DD watches Say Yes To The Dress. Now THAT is scary.

sueb20, if you want to hear something really scary, I'm 60 years old and watch "Say Yes to the Dress." I would say it's because my niece is getting married this year, but she's already picked out her dress. I just love all of the drama, competition, and the dresses, of course!

I've also been watching AI for years. I really didn't think I would watch it without Simon, but I'm enjoying the new judges (could do without Randy, he bores me.)

I totally agree with you on Pia. She's beautiful, and extremely talented, but a little boring.

Re: Haley. I loved her voice during the preliminary competition - makes you wonder whose advice she is following now. She doesn't sing or even look like the same person.

Love AI this season. Great talent. I think Casey needs some work on his image. The voters are young kids and the show is about the whole "package". The lumberjack look is not going over well with the voters. He has the voice, just not the image. Crystal could pull off that edgey look, but Casey's is more Elf or Leprechaun.

Love AI this season also, wonder if Caseys image will be different this comming week.

Wodka, I love say yes to the dress also. I have been married for 24 years and have no daughters. But I love looking at the dresses...I have some of them memorized...they use the same ones a lot. I can't believe some people spend that much on a dress...some of them seem like they could use it on other things....but who am I to judge. I wore my mothers dress....it was free! But I still love the show. Sometimes the camera is focusing on the brides face and i'm saying....show the dress!

Well after last night, I bet Casey WILL work on his image!

After last night I have little faith in the voting process.

I find it odd that they've decided to keep 11 for touring, a clear break from the tradition of having only 10 on tour. The final 10 means nothing now.

I'm not a big fan of Casey but him having the lowest votes was indeed mind boggling. A shave and a haircut could help his cause, and trust me I'm the first person to appreciate a non-mainstream look, but in his case, he just looks unkempt and older than his age. Like other people said about Fergie in another thread, he looks like he needs a bath. Although tuesday, he looked a little more pulled together.

I was shocked that Casey had the fewest votes. I guess I need to start voting :-)

I totally agree about Pia. While listening to her, I kept thinking she is like a machine -- pitch perfect voice, hits every note, but no personality at all and becoming very boring.

I still have to catch up on the rest of this week, only watched part of it (up to where Steven hugged Jacob). I can't help but imagine there are recording executives just waiting in the wings to sign up some of these people. Just curious, does anyone know (from seasons past perhaps, as I didn't see those); is there a clause in the AI contract that no recording deals are signed until the final winner is chosen?

Yes, despite JL's kindness in calling him sexy, he is anything but. "Leprechaun"is a good call, and sex appeal does enter into it, but not sure what he can do about it. I have lost my initial interest in Jacob. He seems rather silly, despite his obvious talent. Agree that the amazing Pia is boring. Stephano, seemingly, will not take the advice to connect, and it put him in the bottom.
Kinda slightly OT, but am just curious to know how you feel about Stevie Wonder. He is idolized ( no pun intended) on AI, and I pretty much cannot stand most of his music. A group of about 8-10 of us were watching Thursday night (age range of about 20- 60), and I mumbled my opinion. Surprised me when every single person agreed with me. Not the man, just his music. With rare exceptions such as All in Love is Fair, that Pia sang so beautifully , I find much of it it really boring. Do you all love him? Are we way off here?

For me , he's a pop music legend, singer songwriter musician, he's one of my favorite artists. I'm 59 , he's 61, so I grew up with his music and sound.

I'm sure there are other people who don't like him, as with any artist, but I've never heard anyone say his music is boring but if that's how it sounds to you,
I wouldn't say you're way off, it's a question of opinion.

He was mumbling on AI the other night, not a good performance, imo.

Nothing against Stevie Wonder, I'm not a fan, tho. His music was everywhere when I was growing up too, it just didn't do anything for me.

Finally finished watching last week's episodes. Just wanted to say I'm loving that guy Paul McDonald. Wish I could get hold of a full version of him singing Tracks of My Tears. Loved his spin on that song, especially the into & end. His voice is so unique it's a signature, a little quirky, when it goes husky, I immediately think young Rod Stewart.

Moon, I agree!

Paul sings Maggie May

Oh thanks, natal! Missed that one, he did a great job on MM too! :)

Music is so personal. There is no right or wrong. Perfect examples --

I love Stevie Wonder. Grew up with his music. Always loved it. Told DH I wanted Stevie to sing Happy Birthday to ME. Not gonna happen, I guess.

I cannot stand Paul. I find his voice abrasive. Don't like listening to him. And, I find his moves on stage just strange. He kind of makes my skin crawl.

Different strokes...

I was a "kinda" fan of Stevie Wonder. Then I saw him in concert almost two years ago and he blew me away. Unlike the other night on Idol, he was FANtastic. I loved every minute of it and the experience made me a huge fan.

DH says Casey reminds him of the character Animal from the Muppets.

Here is a link that might be useful: Animal

it will be interesting to see if casey does try to change his 'way' now that he was voted off and saved... i think he's very talented, but i was definitely getting tired of his style...teddy bear trying to be something else- his look and style don't jive.

agree about pia---very reserved/machine-like...doesn't connect well, but super talented so will at least make it to top 5 i bet.

i don't think stefano can do what the judges want him to do---don't think that's his personality. everybody can't be a charismatic star- i thought stefano was worse this past week because he's trying so hard to be something that he's not...

i have wondered through the years if (ironically) stevie wonder would have been successful at all if he wasn't blind...

look forward to steven tyler performing!

Leahcate, this one's for you. ;)

Here is a link that might be useful: Is Steven Tyler's Idol star falling?

Hey, thanks natal! I was beginning to think DH and our fam were the only ones who saw his judging, or lack thereof, in this critical light. I like the guy a lot, but he seems pretty useless to the contestants. Thought JL would go this always-be-positive route in the beginning, but she is giving them really helpful advice.

From natal's link (interesting article), I totally feel and agree this is what's behind ST's judging style:

It's possible that it's difficult for nice guy Steven to hurt these sweet kids' feelings (a moral issue that nice gal Ellen later admitted she grappled with while on the show). And unlike some other talent-show judges, he knows firsthand what it's like to sing onstage for public approval--so that might make him more sympathetic than most.

I know the last sentence fits JL, too, and she is more detailed with her judging, pros & cons. But I still cling to my decades old crush on Steven and don't want to see him go! :)

"...and don't want to see him go! :)"
Hey moon...me either! I love him on AI, but at the very same time I so wish he'd step up, man up, and do the job he was hired to do. I think I would wish him to be replaced next season if he simply cannot do it. Just sitting there and being sweet and cute can only go so far.

Oh, I agree, it will all start to wear thin after awhile. I'm hoping things change before that happens!
I wonder if the people behind the show say anything to judges? Or just let them do their thing & if they don't work out move on? (Don't know how many people have been judges on this show.)

About Fergie, I did think it was her makeup at first but after watching more, I thought her face shape looked different or something.

Pia - I still think she has a wonderful voice and is beautiful but I agree she's getting boring or something. Can't put my finger on it.

Paul's voice is the most unique.

I missed the show last week so I missed the Casey drama. I was shocked to hear he was in the bottom but I'm glad they saved him. I agree he looks lumberjackish but I think that's what's half appealing about him. I personally don't like that look but I think quirky and different just works for some people and IMO he's one of them. Watching the show tonight, I'm glad to see he trimmed up but didn't off the beard and hair.

I'm honestly surprised Haley is still there. My guess is her and Naima will go tomorrow.

I thought Casey was great last night.

Had to share a funny comment I just heard on the radio. They were discussing AI, and Damian Holbrook from TV Guide said that Paul is "becoming that creepy/scary guy who's singing to one of his tied-down victims." LOL. I do kinda like Paul, but he IS sort of creepy. Or maybe, as DH says, just a little stoned.