Which artists surprised Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick, Jr.? Read my “American Idol” recap to find out! (Photo property of FOX, 19 Entertainment & FremantleMedia North America)
By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
(Singing voice): Idol is going to Kansas City! Kansas City, here they come!
Ok…I may not make it to face Harry Connick, Jr., Jennifer Lopez and Keith Urban, but countless hopefuls who impressed the Idol producers throughout the show’s bus tour are ready to face them!
Which artists gave an outstanding audition? Read on to find out…
The first singer of the evening was Ron “Big Ron” Wilson! He definitely had chemistry with Jennifer and his cover of Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On” was very showmanship-like and at times…he was very cocky! I got the sense that despite saying “yes,” both Keith and Harry were not into him. I hope he listens to Harry and finds a way to balance out his showmanship with a strong vocal performance, otherwise he might be out at the beginning of Hollywood Week!
While a lot of singers brought guitars into their auditions, 23-year-old Joey Cook brought her accordion! It was one of the most unique (and memorable) auditions I have seen in the past four years! She had a lovely voice and her accordion will definitely make her a contender past the audition stage. Keith even stated that she had “the best voice he heard all day” as he handed her a Golden Ticket.
Alexis Gomez described herself as a “Hippy, Mexican Hillbilly” not a Country artist! While she had Keith Urban singing along with her cover of Little Big Town’s “Little White Church,” he could not put her through. However, Jennifer stated that Alexis had the “whole package” and Harry added that she had a “good voice.” Those two factors helped her get a Golden Ticket!
When Stephanie Gammelt first opened her mouth, she sounded like Minnie Mouse and I was worried that she was going to be cannon fodder. However, when she opened her mouth, it was an impeccable surprise! She had a strong tone and has a great sense of humor. Jennifer stated that even though Stephanie was a character, she was a natural singer. However, Harry wanted her to have a “breath of experience” behind her vocals and turned her down. Luckily, Keith voted with Jennifer and now Stephanie is heading to Hollywood!
22-year-old Ellen Petersen brought her banjo into the audition room. The Branson, Missouri native performed her interpretation of “I Wanna Be A Cowboy’s Sweetheart” and she impressed the judges! Keith called her a “pro,” while Jennifer said that she was “ready to bloom!” After receiving her Golden Ticket, Ellen performed The Beverly Hillbillies theme song with Harry and Keith.
Kohlton Pascal has traveled across the country to defeat depression and boredom. He started out with an original song and his vocals were haunting! The judges were a little perplexed what to do with him. They were worried that the show was going to eat him alive, however all three judges decided to take a chance with Kohlton and he headed to Hollywood
Tomorrow night, Jennifer returns home to her hometown of New York City! Plus, Adam Lambert joins J.Lo and Harry on the panel!
