IDOL Results: We sadly say Good-bye to Melinda. She’ll be the Chris Daughtry of Season 6

This is the moment of truth for the final 3. Who will make it to the finale? Bart Simpson, doing his best imitation of Ryan Seacrest does the intro……THIS IS – UH? DOH – OH – THIS IS AMERICAN IDOL (Is it too late to vote for Fantasia?). Better watch out Ryan, you have some serious competition.

A quick introduction of the judges shows Randy in a gray paisley shirt and a peep of his Hanes undershirt. Paula has raided King Tut’s tomb again and Simon was his usual ‘blah’ self in light gray. And a peep of chest hair.

Next up were clips of last night’s performances, which again highlighted the fact that Melinda did have problems with Whitney and Blake did not hit it off with Roxanne.

AFTER the first of many breaks, the producers made sure we all knew about the upcoming Idol Tour. I’m not sure that viewing clips of Sanjaya and Hoochie Scarnato will make for good ticket sales. Surely I didn’t run right out to get them. Well, maybe for Gina…….

The contestants are seated on the couches, talking about their trips home. Jordin was first, describing 24 hours of non-stop interviews, parades, dedications and performances. After that, it is back to LA and memorizing 3 songs by Tuesday. I never realized this before, but maybe this is why some decide to reintroduce songs from earlier in the season. One of the best parts, by far, was her reunion with best friend Bailey. The other was her performance of “I Who Have Nothing” in front of thousands. I was particularly impressed with her humility when she simply stated “Who am I to have this amazing experience?” Back in the studio Jordin was asked to stand up – the judges’ opinions of last night were read – …. “America voted…..you’ll find out how you did a little bit later.” No walk to safety just yet. OUCH. That’s reality TV for ya.

After yet another break, a quick audience camera shot showed Hoochie, Lakisha and Brandon watching the festivities. I wonder who they voted for? And now, the Idol challenge. On the screen were shots of: 1. Elliott Yamin; 2. Kat McPhee; and 3. Taylor Hicks – now the question. “Of these three finalists from Season 5, who was NOT in the top 2?” In the immortal words of Bart Simpson, “Doh!”

Up next is the homecoming of Blake Lewis. Again, there were bells, whistles and accolades to be had. And wasn’t that Jonathon Jayne in the audience? Glad to see his audition rejection hasn’t made him bitter. And the young girls sure do love Blake. You would have thought it was the Fab Four themselves waving at the crowd. I think I know who inherited the Fanjaya’s. After a mediocre version of the National Anthem at a Mariners game, it was back to LA to learn HIS three songs.

Elliot Yamin was next, singing his new song “I’ll Wait For You”  and he looked like a different person.  Sort of channeling the Shaggy Dog, but I loved the song and he sounded just as great as he always did.  The judges gave their usual critiques but Paula won the prize for the most eloquent (ala Elmer Fudd):
I, eb, eb, eb, I’m speechless.  I love you.

 

Elliott had nothing but good things to say to and about the contestants and predicted great things for them.   He encouraged them to be really proud of themselves and then thanked everyone who has supportd him.  Even Porsche.  Porsche?  I wonder how Ford felt about that little verbal faux pas.

AFTER another break — the Ford commercial set to Billy Squire’s “Everybody Wants You”.  A little off topic, but that was one good looking man in his day.  Whew.  OK, I’m back.  Forget what I said last week, THIS one has got to be the best one so far.  Great song and little Idol mini-me’s.

 

Next up was Melinda’s homecoming.  The governor declared it “Melinda Doolittle Day” in Tennessee, after which she travelled to her alma mater.  They even named a street after her – Melinda Doolittle Way.  Of course there was the usual frenzy of media appearances and autograph signings but the most overwhelming, by far, was her return to her church.

 

Of course, there was a recap of her performances but…..no results until later.

 

After yet another commercial….. more information about the band competition. No matter what you play, send in your videos.

 

Up next Maroon 5 are promoting their new CD by singing “Makes Me Wonder”.  It makes me wonder how they would have faired in front of the judges. I heard some real off-notes. Or is it just a shaky FALSETTO? Have I mentioned that I HATE FALSETTO? This is the first time I really listened to them…..they were OK I guess. I’m not really into that ‘dance vibe’ stuff but they were good for what they did. I see where Blake gets his influence.  If I didn’t know any better, I’d say the lad had an out of body experience.

FINALLY – the moment of truth.  All three are holding hands AND their breaths.  Jordin is the first one asked to step forward.  Ryan, serious as a heart attack, dramatizes, “Almost 60 million votes came in and I’ll think you’ll be happy with those votes.  You’ve made it through to the American Idol finale.  Jordin appeared to be in shock.

Who will join her? We all know it will be Melinda — but — WAIT!!!  SAY IT ISN’T SO….. NOOOOOOOOOO.  America has decided that this was the end of the road for her.  WHAT????  I really thought this was a SINGING competition and, evidently, so did Simon considering the look of utter shock on his face.  I wonder how that made Blake feel?

Melinda was the epitomy of graciousness while she thanked everyone and watched her Idol journey unfold.  She further showed her professionalism while singing her exit song “I’m A Woman.”

This just solidifies for me that Idol is not JUST a singing competition anymore.

No matter what happens, we have not seen the last of Melinda Doolittle.  I would like to bet that the moment she walked off the stage there was a big fat contract waiting for her.  Remember, last year is a classic example of the runners up making a bigger musical splash than the winner.  WE LOVE YOU MELINDA!!!!!

And speaking of Blake, he really has his work cut out for him. Who do you think all the Melinda fans will vote for now?  I don’t guess that it will be Blake.  Which will probably guarantee the crown to Jordin.  Rightfully so, since this is supposed to be a singing competition.  Why do I keep hearing Simon in my head???  Until next week…………