Since tonight was the penultimate episode of the season, the top 5 had to sing THREE songs each. Also, no past Idol contestant came back this week to perform. But the top 5 did get a special screening to see “Rocketman” which is about the life of round 2’s theme , Elton John! They also got to meet its star Taron Egerton who plays Sir Elton in the upcoming film releasing May 31st nationwide.
So it was down to business with the first round being mentor “Bobby Bones’ Picks.”
Wade Cota — “You Are The Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne
I thought this was one of his personal best performances of the season and out of the three rounds tonight. But overall it was just satisfactory at this stage of the competition. Katy Perry wanted him to continue to “let it go [and] shake it off.”
Initial Prediction: In Jeopardy
Laci Kaye Booth — “The House That Built Me” by Miranda Lambert
I thought it was another decent performance from the 23-year-old Texan. Luke Bryan thought it was one of her best performances of the season and I agreed. This was a nice soulful rendition of Miranda Lambert’s hit song.
Initial Prediction: In Jeopardy
Alejandro Aranda — “No Woman, No Cry” by Bob Marley
Alejandro sang another hit song but with his own flavor. Lionel Richie simply “loved it!”
Initial Prediction: Safe
Laine Hardy — “Can’t You See” by The Marshall Tucker Band
The Laine Train continues this week with another stellar performance. The judges continued to praise his efforts and style again. The only slight critique the judges gave for him was to “keep scaring himself” and “give more attitude” even more for rounds 2 and 3. I agree, if he continues to loosen up a couple more notches he will have the complete package as a performer and entertainer.
Initial Prediction: Safe
Capping this first round was Madison.
Madison VanDenburg — “What About Us” by P!nk
Such a great moment when she sang this song. She hit all the notes perfectly and I thought she was a clear favorite of round 1.
Initial Prediction: Safe
Round 2 was songs from Elton John’s catalog of hits.
Wade Cota — “Rocketman”
I liked his humor in this round for trying on the shades. Luke wished he had worn it throughout the entire performance. Overall a fun performance but still I don’t think it’s enough to advance into the top 3 after that attempt.
Initial Prediction: In Jeopardy
Laci Kaye Booth — “Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting)”
This was her fun song of the night. Great energy and country version of this classic song. After that performance I thought she exuded more confidence. The judges all enjoyed her upbeat attempt.
Initial Prediction: Still in jeopardy based upon the stronger performances of her competitors.
Alejandro Aranda — “Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word”
He’s still a darkhorse to win this year in my opinion but I still don’t think he’s going to win. Another typical Alejandro effort where he takes a classic song and put his own spin on it.
Initial Prediction: Safe
Madison VanDenburg — “Your Song”
10/10! Again she killed it! Katy Perry made a funny comparison calling her the “ketchup and mustard” and later also the thousand island dressing in a burger. 🙂
Initial Prediction: Safe
Laine Hardy — “Something About The Way You Look Tonight”
I think it’s a neck to neck tie in this round between Madison and Laine. Both did an amazing job this round. Glad he just showed his vocal chops and not used a guitar in this arrangement. Luke noted his singing abilities have improved thanks to some vocal lessons this week.
Initial Prediction: Safe
Wade kicked off round 3 which was all about tributes to their real life heroes.
Wade Cota — “Hard Luck Woman” by KISS
I thought it was just okay but wasn’t enough to convince me that he deserved a top 3 spot.
Initial Prediction: Eliminated
Actual Result: Eliminated
Laci Kaye Booth– “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac
I enjoyed her performance of “Dreams.” I think she should continue to sing songs like these in her post-Idol career. Katy Perry was emotional after that as she felt proud of her efforts tonight and overall for this season.
Initial Prediction: I would love for her to make the top 3 but sadly I don’t think America will vote her in.
Actual Result: Eliminated
Madison VanDenburg — “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele
I felt she connected to the song excellently. She definitely deserves to be in the top 3 after that! A true powerhouse!
Initial Prediction: SAFE!!
Actual Result: Safe
Laine Hardy — “Hey Jude” by The Beatles
Laine solidified his spot into the top 3 after that final round performance. Nothing much else to say other than he will contend for the win next week against Madison. This round I feel belonged to Laine.
Initial Prediction: Safe
Actual Result: Safe
The final song of the night was another original from Alejandro.
“Blesser” by Alejandro
Alejandro separated himself even more from Wade and Laci in terms of this round and he will be in the top 3. Exceptional piano playing in this round. With that said, I still think he will finish in 3rd next week.
Initial Prediction: Safe
Actual Result: Safe
So the top 3 will be Madison, Laine & Alejandro as we’ve finally reached the end of the season! See you all next week as past Idol alums Carrie Underwood and Adam Lambert return to the stage and we will find out WHO will WIN American Idol season 17!!!!!!
Philip's Music Corner 