Melinda Marie Doolittle (born October 6, 1977) is an American singer who finished as the third place finalist on the sixth season of American Idol. Prior to her appearance on American Idol, Doolittle worked as a professional back-up singer for, among others, Michael McDonald, Kirk Franklin, Aaron Neville, BeBe and CeCe Winans, Alabama, Jonny Lang, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, and Anointed.
Doolittle first auditioned for American Idol in Memphis, Tennessee. She went down to Memphis with some friends who were auditioning and decided to audition for fun. She sang the song "For Once in My Life", which was popularized by one of her favorite artists, Stevie Wonder. Her audition received positive feedback from all three judges, although they expressed concern about the nerves she had exhibited and told her to believe in herself.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Kara DioGuardi
Kara Elizabeth DioGuardi (born December 9, 1970) is an American songwriter, record producer, and singer who has contributed to a long list of internationally successful popular songs. She writes music of the light pop-rock genre. She will be a judge on the eighth season of American Idol. DioGuardi has worked with Celine Dion, David Archuleta, Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and even Paula Abdul, the other female judge on America Idol.
DioGuardi co-owns Arthouse Entertainment, a publishing company that is a resource business for record companies and other music entities seeking compositions, productions, artists, and related music services. Arthouse has been a part of many chart-topping hits including Cassie's "Me & U" (written and produced by Ryan Leslie), Jim Jones' "We Fly High" (written and produced by Zukhan Bey), Nick Lachey's "What's Left of Me", David Archuleta's hit single "Crush" (written and produced by Eman Kiriakou), Mika's "Grace Kelly" and also OneRepublic's "Apologize" and "Stop and Stare" (all produced by Greg Wells), and Faith Hill's "Lost" (written and produced by Kara DioGuardi and Mitch Allan).
DioGuardi continues to work with the Phoenix House, a non-profit substance abuse service organization. She contributes to recording studios in the facilities and helps teach the teens how to operate the equipment. (www.phoenixhouse.org)
In July 2006, DioGuardi was a judge in an "Idol"-like show called "The One: Making a Music Star." The show debuted on ABC with the second-lowest rating ever for a premiere on a major American network and was abruptly canceled after just two weeks.
She will join the hit FOX television show American Idol as a fourth judge starting in the show's 8th season (January 2009). In 2000, DioGuardi co-wrote (with fellow Idol judge Paula Abdul) the UK number-one single "Spinning Around," performed by Kylie Minogue. She has written many songs sung by Idol winners and alumni such as Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks, and Katharine McPhee.
DioGuardi co-owns Arthouse Entertainment, a publishing company that is a resource business for record companies and other music entities seeking compositions, productions, artists, and related music services. Arthouse has been a part of many chart-topping hits including Cassie's "Me & U" (written and produced by Ryan Leslie), Jim Jones' "We Fly High" (written and produced by Zukhan Bey), Nick Lachey's "What's Left of Me", David Archuleta's hit single "Crush" (written and produced by Eman Kiriakou), Mika's "Grace Kelly" and also OneRepublic's "Apologize" and "Stop and Stare" (all produced by Greg Wells), and Faith Hill's "Lost" (written and produced by Kara DioGuardi and Mitch Allan).
DioGuardi continues to work with the Phoenix House, a non-profit substance abuse service organization. She contributes to recording studios in the facilities and helps teach the teens how to operate the equipment. (www.phoenixhouse.org)
In July 2006, DioGuardi was a judge in an "Idol"-like show called "The One: Making a Music Star." The show debuted on ABC with the second-lowest rating ever for a premiere on a major American network and was abruptly canceled after just two weeks.
She will join the hit FOX television show American Idol as a fourth judge starting in the show's 8th season (January 2009). In 2000, DioGuardi co-wrote (with fellow Idol judge Paula Abdul) the UK number-one single "Spinning Around," performed by Kylie Minogue. She has written many songs sung by Idol winners and alumni such as Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks, and Katharine McPhee.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Media sponsorship
American Idol is often noted for advertising its sponsors during the show's runtime. Being the number-one-rated show in the United States, it costs around $700,000 for a 30-second commercial.
Apple iTunes has joined as a Season 7 major sponsor in the U.S., and Ryan Seacrest notes during the program that all performances are available via iTunes. Video is regularly shown of contestants learning their songs by rehearsing with iPods. Coca-Cola is a major sponsor in the U.S., and all the judges, hosts, and contestants are seen consuming beverages out of cups bearing the Coca-Cola logo, although video evidence suggests there is actually no beverage in the judges' cups at all. The sponsorship also depicts contestants and host Seacrest gathering for a "Keeping it Real" segment between songs in the "Coca-Cola Red Room," the show's equivalent to the traditional green room. (During rebroadcast on ITV in the UK, the Coca-Cola logo is obscured in the shots.) In seasons 1 through 4, after every Wednesday results show, the host and remaining contestants meet in the Coca-Cola Red Room to discuss next week's theme; the footage of this meeting is shown at the start of the following Tuesday's performance show. The red room was removed in Season 7 at the beginning of the top 12 when American Idol switched to a new stage. Highlights of the show were also featured on the official American Idol web site with a Coca-Cola logo surrounding them.
Text voting is made possible by AT&T Mobility, formerly Cingular Wireless. AT&T created an ad campaign that centered around a air-headed teenager going around telling people to vote. This kind of branding to American Idol enabled AT&T to become the favored system to vote for many Americans (Jenkins 87).
Contestants will occasionally don Old Navy clothing during performances, and celebrity stylist Steven Cojocaru appeared in two previous seasons to assist contestants with picking out wardrobe pieces from Old Navy. Clairol hair care products also sponsors the show, with contestants usually getting Clairol-guided hair makeovers after the first two or three episodes during the round of 12.
Kellogg and Pop-Tarts are also two major sponsors, especially of the cast tour that follows the end of every season.[39] Products from the Ford Motor Company also receive prominent product placement; contestants appear in Ford commercials on the results shows, and the final two of Seasons 4, 5 and 6 each won free Mustangs. Previous contestants Kelly Clarkson and Taylor Hicks have also been tapped to do commercials for Ford. Also, in the top 24's studio, in the red room there is a glass table with a Ford tire inside of it. The camera routinely captures the logo. Carrie Underwood previously did commercials for various chocolate brands. Jordin Sparks, the winner of the sixth installment of 'Idol', filmed a commercial promoting the new "American Idol Experience" section of the Florida theme park, Disneyworld.
Apple iTunes has joined as a Season 7 major sponsor in the U.S., and Ryan Seacrest notes during the program that all performances are available via iTunes. Video is regularly shown of contestants learning their songs by rehearsing with iPods. Coca-Cola is a major sponsor in the U.S., and all the judges, hosts, and contestants are seen consuming beverages out of cups bearing the Coca-Cola logo, although video evidence suggests there is actually no beverage in the judges' cups at all. The sponsorship also depicts contestants and host Seacrest gathering for a "Keeping it Real" segment between songs in the "Coca-Cola Red Room," the show's equivalent to the traditional green room. (During rebroadcast on ITV in the UK, the Coca-Cola logo is obscured in the shots.) In seasons 1 through 4, after every Wednesday results show, the host and remaining contestants meet in the Coca-Cola Red Room to discuss next week's theme; the footage of this meeting is shown at the start of the following Tuesday's performance show. The red room was removed in Season 7 at the beginning of the top 12 when American Idol switched to a new stage. Highlights of the show were also featured on the official American Idol web site with a Coca-Cola logo surrounding them.
Text voting is made possible by AT&T Mobility, formerly Cingular Wireless. AT&T created an ad campaign that centered around a air-headed teenager going around telling people to vote. This kind of branding to American Idol enabled AT&T to become the favored system to vote for many Americans (Jenkins 87).
Contestants will occasionally don Old Navy clothing during performances, and celebrity stylist Steven Cojocaru appeared in two previous seasons to assist contestants with picking out wardrobe pieces from Old Navy. Clairol hair care products also sponsors the show, with contestants usually getting Clairol-guided hair makeovers after the first two or three episodes during the round of 12.
Kellogg and Pop-Tarts are also two major sponsors, especially of the cast tour that follows the end of every season.[39] Products from the Ford Motor Company also receive prominent product placement; contestants appear in Ford commercials on the results shows, and the final two of Seasons 4, 5 and 6 each won free Mustangs. Previous contestants Kelly Clarkson and Taylor Hicks have also been tapped to do commercials for Ford. Also, in the top 24's studio, in the red room there is a glass table with a Ford tire inside of it. The camera routinely captures the logo. Carrie Underwood previously did commercials for various chocolate brands. Jordin Sparks, the winner of the sixth installment of 'Idol', filmed a commercial promoting the new "American Idol Experience" section of the Florida theme park, Disneyworld.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
American Idol Season Eight
Get ready for the most anticipated season premiere of the year! AMERICAN IDOL, television’s No. 1 show, returns for Season Eight with a two-night, four-hour premiere event Tuesday and Wednesday, January 13 and 14 at 8/7c, only on FOX.
As these first seven champions have proven, anybody can win:
Season 1: Kelly Clarkson, 20, from Burleson, TX
Season 2: Ruben Studdard, 25, from Birmingham, AL
Season 3: Fantasia, 19, from High Point, NC
Season 4: Carrie Underwood, 21, from Checotah, OK
Season 5: Taylor Hicks, 29, from Birmingham, AL
Season 6: Jordin Sparks, 17, from Glendale, AZ
Season 7: David Cook, 25, from Blue Springs, MO
Who's Next?
As these first seven champions have proven, anybody can win:
Season 1: Kelly Clarkson, 20, from Burleson, TX
Season 2: Ruben Studdard, 25, from Birmingham, AL
Season 3: Fantasia, 19, from High Point, NC
Season 4: Carrie Underwood, 21, from Checotah, OK
Season 5: Taylor Hicks, 29, from Birmingham, AL
Season 6: Jordin Sparks, 17, from Glendale, AZ
Season 7: David Cook, 25, from Blue Springs, MO
Who's Next?
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Blake Lewis
Blake Colin Lewis (born July 21, 1981) is an American singer-songwriter, beatboxer and philanthropist who was the runner-up on the sixth season of American Idol behind winner Jordin Sparks.
Though he initially found American Idol unappealing, Lewis auditioned for it in Seattle with "Crazy" by Seal and an off-screen rendition of "Sunday Morning" by Maroon 5. Introducing himself as the local beatboxing champion in the audition, Lewis beatboxed along with his teammates, including Chris Sligh, Rudy Cárdenas and Tom Lowe, to "How Deep Is Your Love" by Bee Gees in the Hollywood's Week. The memorable performance received a standing ovation from the audience and Paula Abdul, who commented "that brought down the house". In an early episode of the United Kingdom edition of American Idol, Lewis recalled his first solo performance in the Hollywood's Week was "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone" by The Temptations. When later he sang it in front of the other finalists, Phil Stacey felt that it was the best performance he has seen from Lewis.
On March 6, 2008, he performed "How Many Words", from his album A.D.D. (Audio Day Dream), on the American Idol result show.
On the release of his second single, Blake Lewis spent much of his time promoting the single "How Many Words" at various radio stations. While Blake Lewis parted with his label, Arista Records, in June 2008, he will begin his national tour starting on the East Coast at the end of September with the help of 19 Recordings and will be playing songs from A.D.D. as well as new songs. Details about the tour can be found at Blake Lewis's myspace page or the website of his official street team, the Blake Lewis Army.
Though he initially found American Idol unappealing, Lewis auditioned for it in Seattle with "Crazy" by Seal and an off-screen rendition of "Sunday Morning" by Maroon 5. Introducing himself as the local beatboxing champion in the audition, Lewis beatboxed along with his teammates, including Chris Sligh, Rudy Cárdenas and Tom Lowe, to "How Deep Is Your Love" by Bee Gees in the Hollywood's Week. The memorable performance received a standing ovation from the audience and Paula Abdul, who commented "that brought down the house". In an early episode of the United Kingdom edition of American Idol, Lewis recalled his first solo performance in the Hollywood's Week was "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone" by The Temptations. When later he sang it in front of the other finalists, Phil Stacey felt that it was the best performance he has seen from Lewis.
On March 6, 2008, he performed "How Many Words", from his album A.D.D. (Audio Day Dream), on the American Idol result show.
On the release of his second single, Blake Lewis spent much of his time promoting the single "How Many Words" at various radio stations. While Blake Lewis parted with his label, Arista Records, in June 2008, he will begin his national tour starting on the East Coast at the end of September with the help of 19 Recordings and will be playing songs from A.D.D. as well as new songs. Details about the tour can be found at Blake Lewis's myspace page or the website of his official street team, the Blake Lewis Army.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Chris Daughtry
Christopher Adam Daughtry (born December 26, 1979 in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, United States) is a Grammy nominated American rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He was the fourth-place finalist on the highly publicized fifth season of American Idol, eliminated from the competition on May 10, 2006.
After his fallout from Idol, he was given a record deal by RCA Records, along with 19 Entertainment. His self-titled debut album sold more than 1 million copies after just 5 weeks of release, becoming the fastest selling debut rock album in history. In its ninth week of release, the album reached number one on the Billboard charts. Daughtry is the fourth most successful American Idol contestant in the history of the show, in terms of record sales, behind Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and Clay Aiken.
During the Season Five finale on May 24, 2006 at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood, Daughtry performed the song "Mystery" with the band Live. After the show, "Mystery" suddenly went as high as #80 on the iTunes top 100 songs. Live's version of the song was later available for download on the bands MySpace.com profile with Daughtry as backup vocals.
After his fallout from Idol, he was given a record deal by RCA Records, along with 19 Entertainment. His self-titled debut album sold more than 1 million copies after just 5 weeks of release, becoming the fastest selling debut rock album in history. In its ninth week of release, the album reached number one on the Billboard charts. Daughtry is the fourth most successful American Idol contestant in the history of the show, in terms of record sales, behind Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and Clay Aiken.
During the Season Five finale on May 24, 2006 at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood, Daughtry performed the song "Mystery" with the band Live. After the show, "Mystery" suddenly went as high as #80 on the iTunes top 100 songs. Live's version of the song was later available for download on the bands MySpace.com profile with Daughtry as backup vocals.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Kimberly Caldwell
Kimberly Ann Caldwell (born February 25, 1982 in Katy, Texas) is an American singer best known for being a contestant on the second season of American Idol, where she finished in seventh place. She currently co-hosts Idol Chat, Idol Tonight and Reality Chat on the TV Guide Network.
In May of 2008, Caldwell was asked out on a date by American Idol winner David Cook while on the red carpet before the show's seventh season finale. The two are currently rumored to be dating. Also in 2008, Caldwell released two singles, "Fear of Flying" and "Gave Yourself Away," both available for download on iTunes. Recently she has begun filming an as-yet-untitled miniseries with John Schneider as well as hosting a television game show (created by Mark Burnett) called Jingles.
Caldwell first sang publicly at age five in beauty pageants. She was a five-time junior vocalist winner on Star Search, and she also performed at the Grand Ole Opry. In 1995, she sang at the 50th wedding anniversary of former President George H. W. Bush and Barbara Bush. She also appeared on the second and final season of Popstars: USA, where she was rejected from the group and told she would do better as a solo vocalist.
In May of 2008, Caldwell was asked out on a date by American Idol winner David Cook while on the red carpet before the show's seventh season finale. The two are currently rumored to be dating. Also in 2008, Caldwell released two singles, "Fear of Flying" and "Gave Yourself Away," both available for download on iTunes. Recently she has begun filming an as-yet-untitled miniseries with John Schneider as well as hosting a television game show (created by Mark Burnett) called Jingles.
Caldwell first sang publicly at age five in beauty pageants. She was a five-time junior vocalist winner on Star Search, and she also performed at the Grand Ole Opry. In 1995, she sang at the 50th wedding anniversary of former President George H. W. Bush and Barbara Bush. She also appeared on the second and final season of Popstars: USA, where she was rejected from the group and told she would do better as a solo vocalist.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Tamyra Gray
Tamyra Monica Gray (born July 26, 1979 in Takoma Park, Maryland) is an American actress and singer, best known for her rise to fame as one of the finalists on the first season of the reality television program American Idol in 2002. She has since expanded into acting, most notably with a recurring role on the third season of the drama Boston Public in early 2003.
That opening came in 2002 when Tamyra Gray became one of the ten finalists on the first season of American Idol, eventually finishing fourth. Her performance of the Burt Bacharach classic "A House Is Not a Home" was described by Judge Simon Cowell as "one of the best performances on television" that he had ever seen.
During the third season of American Idol, she returned to the show on several occasions to sing "Raindrops Will Fall" and "Star", songs she co-wrote for her debut album, and to sing the National Anthem to open the final results show of the season. Gray also co-wrote the American Idol season three single "I Believe", which was performed by Idol finalists Fantasia Barrino and Diana DeGarmo. DeGarmo released "I Believe" on her first single album. Barrino then released "I Believe" as her American Idol single, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Charts.
After American Idol's debut season, Gray continued to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. She landed the recurring role of Aisha Clemens on Boston Public, appearing in seven episodes in 2003. She showcased her singing abilities famously covering Luther Vandross' "Dance With My Father" and Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You". She also showcased her dramatic acting skills in portraying a student in an abusive relationship.
She has had guest roles on episodes of Half and Half,Las Vegas, Tru Calling, What I Like About You (TV series) and All Of Us. With other American Idol alumni, she appeared on The Tyra Banks Show in 2006.
Gray joined the cast of Broadway's "Rent" in early 2007 as Mimi, and remained with the cast till mid June 2008.
That opening came in 2002 when Tamyra Gray became one of the ten finalists on the first season of American Idol, eventually finishing fourth. Her performance of the Burt Bacharach classic "A House Is Not a Home" was described by Judge Simon Cowell as "one of the best performances on television" that he had ever seen.
During the third season of American Idol, she returned to the show on several occasions to sing "Raindrops Will Fall" and "Star", songs she co-wrote for her debut album, and to sing the National Anthem to open the final results show of the season. Gray also co-wrote the American Idol season three single "I Believe", which was performed by Idol finalists Fantasia Barrino and Diana DeGarmo. DeGarmo released "I Believe" on her first single album. Barrino then released "I Believe" as her American Idol single, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Charts.
After American Idol's debut season, Gray continued to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. She landed the recurring role of Aisha Clemens on Boston Public, appearing in seven episodes in 2003. She showcased her singing abilities famously covering Luther Vandross' "Dance With My Father" and Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You". She also showcased her dramatic acting skills in portraying a student in an abusive relationship.
She has had guest roles on episodes of Half and Half,Las Vegas, Tru Calling, What I Like About You (TV series) and All Of Us. With other American Idol alumni, she appeared on The Tyra Banks Show in 2006.
Gray joined the cast of Broadway's "Rent" in early 2007 as Mimi, and remained with the cast till mid June 2008.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Kristy Lee Cook
Kristy Lee Cook (born January 18, 1984) is an American country music singer who released an album, Devoted, under the name Kristy Lee. In addition, she was also the seventh place finalist on the seventh season of the television series American Idol. She signed in June 2008 to Arista Nashville and released her debut album in September 2008.
Kristy Lee Cook auditioned for American Idol in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by singing "Amazing Grace". All three judges liked her voice and sent her straight through to Hollywood. While in Hollywood, her first song didn't impress the judges. For her second and final chance, she sang "Amazing Grace" again; as a result, she became one of the top 24 contestants in the semi-finals. She was the first girl performer of the season and sang "Rescue Me". The judges did not care for her performance but gave her props since she was the first of the night and she had bronchitis. On March 12th, Cook was placed in the bottom 3 alongside Syesha Mercado and David Hernandez. She was declared safe. On March 19, she was placed in the bottom three again with Carly Smithson and Amanda Overmyer, but she survived again. She has locked up a spot in the American Idol Top 10 Concert Tour for the upcoming summer. Once again, on April 2nd, she was placed in the bottom 3 alongside her 2 roommates Ramiele Malubay and Brooke White. While Malubay was eliminated, Cook and White were left to stay. On April 16th, Cook was voted off after she and Brooke were in the bottom 2. Cook was the first contestant of season 7 to be voted off who had been previously in the bottom 3.
Kristy Lee Cook auditioned for American Idol in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania by singing "Amazing Grace". All three judges liked her voice and sent her straight through to Hollywood. While in Hollywood, her first song didn't impress the judges. For her second and final chance, she sang "Amazing Grace" again; as a result, she became one of the top 24 contestants in the semi-finals. She was the first girl performer of the season and sang "Rescue Me". The judges did not care for her performance but gave her props since she was the first of the night and she had bronchitis. On March 12th, Cook was placed in the bottom 3 alongside Syesha Mercado and David Hernandez. She was declared safe. On March 19, she was placed in the bottom three again with Carly Smithson and Amanda Overmyer, but she survived again. She has locked up a spot in the American Idol Top 10 Concert Tour for the upcoming summer. Once again, on April 2nd, she was placed in the bottom 3 alongside her 2 roommates Ramiele Malubay and Brooke White. While Malubay was eliminated, Cook and White were left to stay. On April 16th, Cook was voted off after she and Brooke were in the bottom 2. Cook was the first contestant of season 7 to be voted off who had been previously in the bottom 3.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Carly Smithson
Carly Smithson (née Hennessy) (born September 12, 1983) is a Meteor Award-winning Irish rock/soul singer-songwriter, who was born in Dublin. In 2001 Smithson released her first studio album for MCA Records called Ultimate High. The album had little success, only winning two awards for Smithson, and Smithson was dropped from her record label in 2002. Smithson was a sixth place finalist on the seventh season of the television series American Idol and she is currently performing in the American Idols LIVE! Tour 2008 from July 1, 2008 to September 13, 2008.
Carly Smithson auditioned for American Idol at San Diego's Qualcomm Stadium on July 30 and July 31, 2007. She advanced with a unanimous vote after singing "I'm Every Woman." Simon Cowell noted that he remembered Smithson from her Season 5 audition. In Hollywood, she sang Heart's "Alone" for her audition and received unanimous praise from Randy, Paula and Simon. Smithson was one of the first foreign contestants to make the Top 12 (along with Michael Johns, an Australian). Smithson was eliminated the April 23rd, 2008. Her final performance on American Idol was considered one of her best by the judges.
Smithson successfully auditioned again for Season 7 of American Idol and made the top 24. Shortly thereafter, articles appeared in the mainstream press, criticizing her selection because of her previous record deal. Smithson acknowledged her previous record deal on the February 20, 2008 episode of American Idol, and stated that the record label 'imploded'.
Smithson was eliminated after performing Superstar from Andrew Lloyd Webber's Jesus Christ Superstar on April 23, 2008. The day before she was eliminated Simon Cowell stated, "I thought that was the best performance of the night so far." After Simon stated that comment, Smithson pulled out a t-shirt sent to her by her fans with a sign on it that says "Simon Loves Me (this week)."
After Ryan Seacrest announced the elimination Cowell said:
“ I apologize for giving you a compliment last night—kiss of death, but let me tell you, Carly, you can leave with your head held high. ”
On the final results show Smithson performed "She Works Hard for the Money" along with the other Top 6 female singers. She also sang a duet of Box Tops' "The Letter" with Michael Johns. Later in the show she performed a medley of "Faith", "Father Figure", and "Freedom! '90" by George Michael along with the other Top 12 finalists. She also participated in the group number that opened the show, "Get Ready," along with the other 11 finalists from American Idol (season 7).
Smithson's fanbase names while on the show were the "Fighting Irish", the "Smithsonians", and "Carly's Clovers".
Carly Smithson auditioned for American Idol at San Diego's Qualcomm Stadium on July 30 and July 31, 2007. She advanced with a unanimous vote after singing "I'm Every Woman." Simon Cowell noted that he remembered Smithson from her Season 5 audition. In Hollywood, she sang Heart's "Alone" for her audition and received unanimous praise from Randy, Paula and Simon. Smithson was one of the first foreign contestants to make the Top 12 (along with Michael Johns, an Australian). Smithson was eliminated the April 23rd, 2008. Her final performance on American Idol was considered one of her best by the judges.
Smithson successfully auditioned again for Season 7 of American Idol and made the top 24. Shortly thereafter, articles appeared in the mainstream press, criticizing her selection because of her previous record deal. Smithson acknowledged her previous record deal on the February 20, 2008 episode of American Idol, and stated that the record label 'imploded'.
Smithson was eliminated after performing Superstar from Andrew Lloyd Webber's Jesus Christ Superstar on April 23, 2008. The day before she was eliminated Simon Cowell stated, "I thought that was the best performance of the night so far." After Simon stated that comment, Smithson pulled out a t-shirt sent to her by her fans with a sign on it that says "Simon Loves Me (this week)."
After Ryan Seacrest announced the elimination Cowell said:
“ I apologize for giving you a compliment last night—kiss of death, but let me tell you, Carly, you can leave with your head held high. ”
On the final results show Smithson performed "She Works Hard for the Money" along with the other Top 6 female singers. She also sang a duet of Box Tops' "The Letter" with Michael Johns. Later in the show she performed a medley of "Faith", "Father Figure", and "Freedom! '90" by George Michael along with the other Top 12 finalists. She also participated in the group number that opened the show, "Get Ready," along with the other 11 finalists from American Idol (season 7).
Smithson's fanbase names while on the show were the "Fighting Irish", the "Smithsonians", and "Carly's Clovers".
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Justin Guarini
Justin Guarini (born Justin Eldrin Bell on October 28, 1978 in Columbus, Georgia) is an American singer/songwriter, actor who rose to fame in 2002 as the first runner-up on the debut season of the television show American Idol.
His father, Eldrin Bell, is a former Atlanta, Georgia Chief of Police, and current Chairperson of Clayton County Commission (Georgia). His mother, Kathy Pepino Guarini, was a journalist for WTVM TV in Columbus, and later for CNN. Guarini was raised by his mother and stepfather Jerry Guarini, a physicist, in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.
Acting/entertainment-related projects include Guarini's 2004 role in the pre-Broadway New York Stage and Film Powerhouse Theater workshop/presentation of the musical Good Vibrations at Vassar College. His performance (which included singing, dancing, acting, and playing guitar) landed Guarini an offer to continue the role in the original Broadway production of the musical Good Vibrations, which he eventually declined. He continues to act in independent film projects such as the drama/action film Fast Girl, The Unknown: Frankie The Squirrel, Mafioso II: The Son, and the short film Tilt-a-Whirl for the Dances With Films Film Festival.
Some of his television appearances include a musical spoof for AMC's FilmFakers (2004), guest role in Run of the House, guest host/co-host for shows including Regis and Kelly (2003), VH1's Top 20 Countdown (2004), ManiaTV!'s U Pick 'Em and Too Short for Hollywood (2006), and the TV Guide Network (2006) where, in 2007, he was signed as co-host for Idol Wrap and Idol Tonight. His role with the network soon expanded to include guest-hosting/appearances on other TV Guide Network shows, as well as hosting movie premiere specials, and music commentary for pre-Grammy coverage. He's also a recurring commentator for such shows/networks as the Today Show, MSNBC, Fox News Channel, Style Channel, and Comcast.
His father, Eldrin Bell, is a former Atlanta, Georgia Chief of Police, and current Chairperson of Clayton County Commission (Georgia). His mother, Kathy Pepino Guarini, was a journalist for WTVM TV in Columbus, and later for CNN. Guarini was raised by his mother and stepfather Jerry Guarini, a physicist, in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.
Acting/entertainment-related projects include Guarini's 2004 role in the pre-Broadway New York Stage and Film Powerhouse Theater workshop/presentation of the musical Good Vibrations at Vassar College. His performance (which included singing, dancing, acting, and playing guitar) landed Guarini an offer to continue the role in the original Broadway production of the musical Good Vibrations, which he eventually declined. He continues to act in independent film projects such as the drama/action film Fast Girl, The Unknown: Frankie The Squirrel, Mafioso II: The Son, and the short film Tilt-a-Whirl for the Dances With Films Film Festival.
Some of his television appearances include a musical spoof for AMC's FilmFakers (2004), guest role in Run of the House, guest host/co-host for shows including Regis and Kelly (2003), VH1's Top 20 Countdown (2004), ManiaTV!'s U Pick 'Em and Too Short for Hollywood (2006), and the TV Guide Network (2006) where, in 2007, he was signed as co-host for Idol Wrap and Idol Tonight. His role with the network soon expanded to include guest-hosting/appearances on other TV Guide Network shows, as well as hosting movie premiere specials, and music commentary for pre-Grammy coverage. He's also a recurring commentator for such shows/networks as the Today Show, MSNBC, Fox News Channel, Style Channel, and Comcast.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Paula Abdul
Paula Julie Abdul born June 19, 1962) is a Grammy Award-winning American pop singer, dancer, Emmy Award-winning choreographer, and television personality. Married to Emilio Estevez between 1992-1994, she is the former daughter-in-law of actor Martin Sheen.
In the 1980s, Abdul rose from being a cheerleader for the Los Angeles Lakers NBA basketball team to being a sought-after choreographer at the height of the music video era, then to being a Pop-R&B singer with a string of hits in the late-1980s and early-1990s. According to Abdul, she has sold over 53 million records to date. After her initial period of success, she suffered a series of setbacks in her professional and personal life, until she found renewed fame and success in the 2000s as a judge on the television series, American Idol. Abdul was most recently featured in the seventh season of American Idol.
Abdul is working on a new album with her first single set to be released in mid-2008, and she hopes to have the album out by the end of 2008. Her voice range is mezzo-soprano.
In the 1980s, Abdul rose from being a cheerleader for the Los Angeles Lakers NBA basketball team to being a sought-after choreographer at the height of the music video era, then to being a Pop-R&B singer with a string of hits in the late-1980s and early-1990s. According to Abdul, she has sold over 53 million records to date. After her initial period of success, she suffered a series of setbacks in her professional and personal life, until she found renewed fame and success in the 2000s as a judge on the television series, American Idol. Abdul was most recently featured in the seventh season of American Idol.
Abdul is working on a new album with her first single set to be released in mid-2008, and she hopes to have the album out by the end of 2008. Her voice range is mezzo-soprano.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Randy Jackson
Randall Darius Jackson (born June 23, 1956 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana) is a Grammy Award-winning bassist; singer, record producer, music manager, A&R executive and Emmy Award-nominated television and radio personality, now best known as a judge on American Idol. Jackson was most recently featured in the seventh season of American Idol.
Jackson is the manager of Papertongues, a Charlotte, NC based band.
Jackson also hosts a radio top 40 countdown known as "Randy Jackson's Hit List", which is syndicated by Westwood One. Every week Jackson counts down his top 30 Urban AC and Mainstream AC hits, and gives behind-the-scenes information on American Idol with American Idol Underground.
The qualification round for America's Best Dance Crew, a new dance contest produced by Jackson, was broadcast live on MTV on 26 January as a teaser to the elimination dance off battles which premiered on 7 February. On March 11, 2008, Jackson released an album produced entirely by himself, titled Randy Jackson's Music Club, Vol. 1. The album was preceded with the single "Dance Like There's No Tomorrow", performed by fellow American Idol judge Paula Abdul.
Jackson had performed with the Rock band Journey on their 1986 album Raised on Radio.
Jackson is the manager of Papertongues, a Charlotte, NC based band.
Jackson also hosts a radio top 40 countdown known as "Randy Jackson's Hit List", which is syndicated by Westwood One. Every week Jackson counts down his top 30 Urban AC and Mainstream AC hits, and gives behind-the-scenes information on American Idol with American Idol Underground.
The qualification round for America's Best Dance Crew, a new dance contest produced by Jackson, was broadcast live on MTV on 26 January as a teaser to the elimination dance off battles which premiered on 7 February. On March 11, 2008, Jackson released an album produced entirely by himself, titled Randy Jackson's Music Club, Vol. 1. The album was preceded with the single "Dance Like There's No Tomorrow", performed by fellow American Idol judge Paula Abdul.
Jackson had performed with the Rock band Journey on their 1986 album Raised on Radio.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Simon Cowell
Simon Phillip Cowell (born October 7, 1959) is an English artist-and-repertoire ("A&R") executive and television personality/producer, best known as a judge on such TV shows as Pop Idol, American Idol, The X Factor, and Britain's Got Talent. He is also the owner of the television production and music publishing house Syco.
Cowell is notorious as a judge for his unsparingly blunt and often controversial criticisms, insults and wisecracks about contestants and their singing abilities, or lack thereof. He is often parodied in pop culture. He is known for combining activities in the television and music industries, having promoted singles and records for various artists, including television personalities. Having most recently featured in the seventh season of American Idol and the second series of Britain's Got Talent, Cowell is now working on the fifth series of The X Factor.
In 2004, with Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh, Cowell was a judge on the first series of the British talent show The X Factor, which he created using his production company, Syco. The X Factor was an instant success with the viewers and returned three more times to its fourth series in 2007. In 2006, he was voted the tenth most terrifying celebrity on television in a Radio Times poll consisting of 3,000 people.
The winner of The X Factor third series, Leona Lewis, is signed to Cowell's label Syco and has gone on to become an international star, with number one singles and album sales around the world.
Cowell returned for a fourth series on August 18, 2007, alongside Osbourne, Walsh and new judge, Dannii Minogue. Walsh had previously been sacked from the judging panel by Cowell for the fourth series, and was subsequently replaced by Brian Friedman who was a judge on Grease Is The Word. Walsh was later brought back a week into the auditions by Cowell when he and Sharon Osbourne realised they missed Walsh and that without him, there was no chemistry between the judges.
Cowell is notorious as a judge for his unsparingly blunt and often controversial criticisms, insults and wisecracks about contestants and their singing abilities, or lack thereof. He is often parodied in pop culture. He is known for combining activities in the television and music industries, having promoted singles and records for various artists, including television personalities. Having most recently featured in the seventh season of American Idol and the second series of Britain's Got Talent, Cowell is now working on the fifth series of The X Factor.
In 2004, with Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh, Cowell was a judge on the first series of the British talent show The X Factor, which he created using his production company, Syco. The X Factor was an instant success with the viewers and returned three more times to its fourth series in 2007. In 2006, he was voted the tenth most terrifying celebrity on television in a Radio Times poll consisting of 3,000 people.
The winner of The X Factor third series, Leona Lewis, is signed to Cowell's label Syco and has gone on to become an international star, with number one singles and album sales around the world.
Cowell returned for a fourth series on August 18, 2007, alongside Osbourne, Walsh and new judge, Dannii Minogue. Walsh had previously been sacked from the judging panel by Cowell for the fourth series, and was subsequently replaced by Brian Friedman who was a judge on Grease Is The Word. Walsh was later brought back a week into the auditions by Cowell when he and Sharon Osbourne realised they missed Walsh and that without him, there was no chemistry between the judges.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Kelly Clarkson
Kelly Brianne Clarkson (born April 24, 1982) is an American pop rock singer, songwriter, and occasional actress. Clarkson made her debut under RCA Records after she won the highly-publicized first season of the television series American Idol in 2002. She was originally marketed as a pop musician with her debut album Thankful (2003). With the release of her multi-platinum second album Breakaway (2004), Clarkson moved to a more pop rock-oriented style of music. Clarkson's third album, entitled My December, was released on June 26, 2007. Her fourth album is due in fall 2008. Clarkson has sold over 20 million albums worldwide. Clarkson is the most successful American Idol alumnus. Eight of Clarkson's singles have become Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100. In 2008, she joined Vh1's list of 10 sexiest women. She also hit #28 on Vh1's Top 30 Front Women.
Clarkson won the first season competition of American Idol on September 4, 2002, earning 58% of the audience vote over Justin Guarini. Choking back tears, Clarkson performed the ballad "A Moment Like This", the song written for the winner of American Idol, which would subsequently appear on her debut album Thankful. The song's music video was filmed at Pantages Theater in Hollywood, and incorporated short scenes of Clarkson performing on Idol. When released as a single in October 2002, it set a then record on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart when it rose from number fifty-two to number one. This achievement was largely due to the impact from Idol as the CD single managed to sell 236,000 copies in its first week of sales in the U.S.; it spent five weeks at number one in Canada.
Clarkson won the first season competition of American Idol on September 4, 2002, earning 58% of the audience vote over Justin Guarini. Choking back tears, Clarkson performed the ballad "A Moment Like This", the song written for the winner of American Idol, which would subsequently appear on her debut album Thankful. The song's music video was filmed at Pantages Theater in Hollywood, and incorporated short scenes of Clarkson performing on Idol. When released as a single in October 2002, it set a then record on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart when it rose from number fifty-two to number one. This achievement was largely due to the impact from Idol as the CD single managed to sell 236,000 copies in its first week of sales in the U.S.; it spent five weeks at number one in Canada.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Ruben Studdard
Christopher Ruben Studdard (born September 12, 1978) is an American Idol, an American pop, R&B, and gospel singer who rose to fame as winner of the second season of the American Idol television program.
When auditioning, Studdard sang Stevie Wonder's "Ribbon in the Sky." This guided him to being one of the local finalists. On American Idol, he impressed viewers with his performances of the Leon Russell/Bonnie Bramlett song "Superstar" (originally a hit for The Carpenters and Luther Vandross) and the Peabo Bryson/Regina Belle duet "A Whole New World"; during his time on the show, Studdard received praise from music legends such as Lionel Richie, Neil Sedaka, Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, Luther Vandross, and Gladys Knight.
During the televised competition, Studdard gained the nickname "Velvet Teddy Bear" and was noted for his shirts printed with "205", the telephone area code of his hometown of Birmingham. Studdard also did a cover version of "For All We Know", originally recorded by Donny Hathaway, whose music he grew up with.
He won the contest over runner-up Clay Aiken by only 134,000 votes out of 24,000,000 cast in the May 2003 finale, becoming the second American Idol winner and the first and only male (as well as the oldest winner) to hold that title until 2006, when fellow Birmingham native Taylor Hicks won Idol's season five.
Alabama Governor Bob Riley declared 11 March 2002 as "Ruben Studdard Day".
When auditioning, Studdard sang Stevie Wonder's "Ribbon in the Sky." This guided him to being one of the local finalists. On American Idol, he impressed viewers with his performances of the Leon Russell/Bonnie Bramlett song "Superstar" (originally a hit for The Carpenters and Luther Vandross) and the Peabo Bryson/Regina Belle duet "A Whole New World"; during his time on the show, Studdard received praise from music legends such as Lionel Richie, Neil Sedaka, Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees, Luther Vandross, and Gladys Knight.
During the televised competition, Studdard gained the nickname "Velvet Teddy Bear" and was noted for his shirts printed with "205", the telephone area code of his hometown of Birmingham. Studdard also did a cover version of "For All We Know", originally recorded by Donny Hathaway, whose music he grew up with.
He won the contest over runner-up Clay Aiken by only 134,000 votes out of 24,000,000 cast in the May 2003 finale, becoming the second American Idol winner and the first and only male (as well as the oldest winner) to hold that title until 2006, when fellow Birmingham native Taylor Hicks won Idol's season five.
Alabama Governor Bob Riley declared 11 March 2002 as "Ruben Studdard Day".
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Fantasia Barrino
Fantasia Monique Barrino (born June 30, 1984), or simply Fantasia, is an American R&B/soul singer and Broadway actress who rose to fame as the winner of the third season of the television series American Idol in 2004. Her first album, Free Yourself, was certified platinum and received four Grammy nominations. Her second album, Fantasia, was certified gold, received three Grammy nominations and featured the 8-week #1 Billboard Hot R&B hit "When I See U." Following a critically acclaimed run on Broadway as Celie in the musical, The Color Purple, Fantasia was cast to star in the movie version of the musical, which is slated to begin production in 2009.
Barrino made an immediate impression on American Idol with her stylized, gospel-influenced sound, and her explosive stage presence. Her audition version of Tina Turner's "Proud Mary" made her an early favorite in the competition. Her standout performance during the course of the show was a heartfelt staging, begun seated, of the Porgy and Bess standard "Summertime" that left her in tears from "feeling the song" and earned praise from the judges, as well as landing her on the Emmy Awards's 2004 list of greatest television moments. "Summertime" was also labeled by idol judge Randy Jackson as the best performance in the shows history.
Nevertheless, Barrino's rise to the final two on American Idol was plagued with controversies, including accusations of racism when she and two other well-praised African American female singers in the competition, LaToya London and Jennifer Hudson, all landed in the bottom three of that week's voting. Guest artist Elton John labeled the outcome "racist". Other concerns were raised over her as a single mother being a poor role model for youth.
For the final performance of the season, Barrino offered a second performance of "Summertime" that again drew enormous praise from the judges — including Simon Cowell's remarks that she was the best contestant to ever compete in any competition. This would include the over seventy Idol champions crowned nationally and internationally since the show began its first global incarnations. On the finale, over sixty-five million votes were cast in order to determine the winner on May 26, 2004, up from twenty-four million in 2003. It was the highest finale vote in the show's history until the May 23, 2007 American Idol (season 6) finale. In the end Fantasia defeated runner-up Diana DeGarmo by 1.3 million votes. At age nineteen, Fantasia was the youngest American Idol winner until May 23, 2007, when the 17 year-old Jordin Sparks won the title.
Barrino participated in the U.S. tour with the other American Idol finalists and appeared in the 2004 Christmas special, Kelly, Ruben and Fantasia: Home For the Holidays.
Barrino made an immediate impression on American Idol with her stylized, gospel-influenced sound, and her explosive stage presence. Her audition version of Tina Turner's "Proud Mary" made her an early favorite in the competition. Her standout performance during the course of the show was a heartfelt staging, begun seated, of the Porgy and Bess standard "Summertime" that left her in tears from "feeling the song" and earned praise from the judges, as well as landing her on the Emmy Awards's 2004 list of greatest television moments. "Summertime" was also labeled by idol judge Randy Jackson as the best performance in the shows history.
Nevertheless, Barrino's rise to the final two on American Idol was plagued with controversies, including accusations of racism when she and two other well-praised African American female singers in the competition, LaToya London and Jennifer Hudson, all landed in the bottom three of that week's voting. Guest artist Elton John labeled the outcome "racist". Other concerns were raised over her as a single mother being a poor role model for youth.
For the final performance of the season, Barrino offered a second performance of "Summertime" that again drew enormous praise from the judges — including Simon Cowell's remarks that she was the best contestant to ever compete in any competition. This would include the over seventy Idol champions crowned nationally and internationally since the show began its first global incarnations. On the finale, over sixty-five million votes were cast in order to determine the winner on May 26, 2004, up from twenty-four million in 2003. It was the highest finale vote in the show's history until the May 23, 2007 American Idol (season 6) finale. In the end Fantasia defeated runner-up Diana DeGarmo by 1.3 million votes. At age nineteen, Fantasia was the youngest American Idol winner until May 23, 2007, when the 17 year-old Jordin Sparks won the title.
Barrino participated in the U.S. tour with the other American Idol finalists and appeared in the 2004 Christmas special, Kelly, Ruben and Fantasia: Home For the Holidays.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Carrie Underwood
Carrie Marie Underwood (born March 10, 1983 in Muskogee, Oklahoma) is a three-time Grammy Award-winning singer that rose to fame as the winner of the fourth season of American Idol. She has become a multi-platinum selling recording artist. Her debut album, Some Hearts, was certified seven times platinum and is the fastest selling debut country album in Nielsen SoundScan history. Some Hearts yielded three number one hits on the country charts in the United States and Canada: "Jesus, Take the Wheel","Wasted," and her biggest hit to date, "Before He Cheats". Additionally "Don't Forget to Remember Me" topped the charts in Canada. Underwood scored another Top 10 Billboard hit with her charity single, "I'll Stand by You". Some Hearts sold a total of 7 million RIAA-certified copies as of February 2008. In addition to being the best selling album by an American Idol contestant in the United States to date, it is also the best-selling solo female debut album in country music history.
Her second album, Carnival Ride, was released on October 23, 2007. It has so far sold about 3 million copies and has produced three number one country hits, "So Small", "All-American Girl", and "Last Name". Underwood's Christmas single, "Do You Hear What I Hear?" peaked at #2 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary charts.
Aside from her vocals, Underwood's success is attributed to what many fans recognize as her wholesome image. In general, many of her songs also present inspirational and uplifting themes and messages. To date, Underwood has sold over 12 million records worldwide.
She is the first country artist in music history to have her first 7 singles top the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
She was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry on May 10, 2008.
Her second album, Carnival Ride, was released on October 23, 2007. It has so far sold about 3 million copies and has produced three number one country hits, "So Small", "All-American Girl", and "Last Name". Underwood's Christmas single, "Do You Hear What I Hear?" peaked at #2 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary charts.
Aside from her vocals, Underwood's success is attributed to what many fans recognize as her wholesome image. In general, many of her songs also present inspirational and uplifting themes and messages. To date, Underwood has sold over 12 million records worldwide.
She is the first country artist in music history to have her first 7 singles top the Billboard Country Airplay chart.
She was inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry on May 10, 2008.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Taylor Hicks
Taylor Reuben Hicks (October 7, 1976) is an American singer who achieved fame in 2006 as a contestant on the fifth season of American Idol, which he won later that year. Hicks got his start as a professional musician in his late teens and performed around the Southeastern United States for well over the span of a decade, during which he also released two independent albums. Upon winning Idol, he was signed to Arista Records, under which his self-titled major label debut was released on December 12, 2006. His energetic stage performances and influences derived from classic soul, blues, and R&B music had earned him a following of devout fans, who have been dubbed the "Soul Patrol."
Hicks auditioned for American Idol in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 10, 2005. Hicks passed the audition by the approval of judges Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul, but not Simon Cowell, who said that Hicks would never make it to the final round. On Hicks' first performance for the voting public, Cowell called back to this quote, admitting he was wrong.
On the May 10, 2006, results show, Hicks along with Katharine McPhee and Elliott Yamin, were announced as the Top 3 finalists. On May 12, Idol producers brought Hicks to Birmingham for a weekend of promotional events including television interviews for the local FOX affiliate, a downtown parade, concerts, and an audience with Governor Bob Riley. May 12 was proclaimed "Taylor Hicks Day" and Hicks was given the key to the city. Also on May 12, Gov. Riley issued a proclamation making May 16 "Taylor Hicks Day".
Hicks was named the new American Idol on May 24, 2006, winning the title over McPhee, with over 63.4 million votes cast in total. The proclamation was aired to a worldwide audience of 200 million television viewers. With his win at age 29, Hicks became the oldest person to win American Idol.
In June 2006, Ford Motor Company, the show's major sponsor, signed Hicks to promote Ford's "Drive on Us" year-end sales event. He was also named Hottest Bachelor by People magazine for 2006, appearing on the magazine's cover.
Hicks auditioned for American Idol in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 10, 2005. Hicks passed the audition by the approval of judges Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul, but not Simon Cowell, who said that Hicks would never make it to the final round. On Hicks' first performance for the voting public, Cowell called back to this quote, admitting he was wrong.
On the May 10, 2006, results show, Hicks along with Katharine McPhee and Elliott Yamin, were announced as the Top 3 finalists. On May 12, Idol producers brought Hicks to Birmingham for a weekend of promotional events including television interviews for the local FOX affiliate, a downtown parade, concerts, and an audience with Governor Bob Riley. May 12 was proclaimed "Taylor Hicks Day" and Hicks was given the key to the city. Also on May 12, Gov. Riley issued a proclamation making May 16 "Taylor Hicks Day".
Hicks was named the new American Idol on May 24, 2006, winning the title over McPhee, with over 63.4 million votes cast in total. The proclamation was aired to a worldwide audience of 200 million television viewers. With his win at age 29, Hicks became the oldest person to win American Idol.
In June 2006, Ford Motor Company, the show's major sponsor, signed Hicks to promote Ford's "Drive on Us" year-end sales event. He was also named Hottest Bachelor by People magazine for 2006, appearing on the magazine's cover.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Jordin Sparks
Jordin Brianna Sparks (born December 22, 1989) is an American pop/R&B singer. On May 23, 2007, she was declared the winner of the sixth season of the reality television show American Idol. Sparks won at the age of 17, making her the youngest winner of American Idol. Sparks was recently featured in the seventh season of American Idol.
In 2006, Jordin Sparks won second place in the 2006 Drug Free AZ Superstar Search.
Sparks appeared on the January 17, 2007 broadcast of American Idol, earning a "gold ticket" and the right to appear in the Hollywood Round. American Idol judge Randy Jackson made the offhand prediction that "Curly hair will win this year," which he admitted wasn't Sparks. Before going on to American Idol, she had won Arizona Idol. In 2006, Sparks was one of six winners who won the Phoenix Torrid search for the "Next Plus Size Model." She was flown to California, where she was used in a number of Torrid ads and promotional pieces. A full-page ad for Torrid featuring Sparks ran in the December 2006 issue of Seventeen magazine".
In 2006, Jordin Sparks won second place in the 2006 Drug Free AZ Superstar Search.
Sparks appeared on the January 17, 2007 broadcast of American Idol, earning a "gold ticket" and the right to appear in the Hollywood Round. American Idol judge Randy Jackson made the offhand prediction that "Curly hair will win this year," which he admitted wasn't Sparks. Before going on to American Idol, she had won Arizona Idol. In 2006, Sparks was one of six winners who won the Phoenix Torrid search for the "Next Plus Size Model." She was flown to California, where she was used in a number of Torrid ads and promotional pieces. A full-page ad for Torrid featuring Sparks ran in the December 2006 issue of Seventeen magazine".
Thursday, June 12, 2008
David Archuleta
David Archuleta was born in Miami, Florida to Jeff Archuleta and Lupe Marie, a salsa singer and dancer from Honduras. Archuleta has four siblings. Archuleta's family moved to the Salt Lake Valley, in the city of Sandy, Utah when Archuleta was 6 and he currently lives in Murray, Utah, where Archuleta is a student at Murray High School. He once suffered partial vocal paralysis but declined risky surgery and has said he feels he is almost fully recovered.
Archuleta started singing at age six, inspired by a Les Misérables video. "That musical is what started all of this," he said. He started performing publicly at age 10 when he participated in the Utah Talent Competition singing "I Will Always Love You" by Dolly Parton; he received a standing ovation and won the Child Division.
At age 11 he made his television debut. He sang "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" on a Jenny Jones show for future Latino stars.
Archuleta started singing at age six, inspired by a Les Misérables video. "That musical is what started all of this," he said. He started performing publicly at age 10 when he participated in the Utah Talent Competition singing "I Will Always Love You" by Dolly Parton; he received a standing ovation and won the Child Division.
At age 11 he made his television debut. He sang "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" on a Jenny Jones show for future Latino stars.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
David Cook
David Roland Cook (born December 20, 1982) is an American singer-songwriter and musician, and is a finalist on the seventh season of American Idol.
Cook was the lead singer and guitarist of the band Axium from 1999 until 2006. He formed Axium in his junior year of high school with drummer Bobby Kerr. One of the band's songs, "Hold," was picked up by AMC Theatres Movie Tunes and was played before previews on over 20,000 screens nationwide. Axium was also named one of the top 15 independent bands in the country in the "Got Milk?" independent band contest, and it was chosen as the best band in Kansas City in 2004.
In 2006, after the breakup of Axium, Cook relocated to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and joined the regional touring band Midwest Kings, playing guitar, bass, and singing backup vocals. He recorded one EP, Incoherent with Desire to Move On, with the band in 2006. He also worked as a bartender at several Tulsa clubs, including Blank Slate and Rehab Lounge.
Cook released a solo independent album, Analog Heart, in 2006, the year he graduated from the college. It was written from 2004 to 2006, and he designed the artwork as well. The album was chosen as the fourth-best CD released in 2006 by website Music Equals Life. Cook also won the Urban Tulsa Weekly's "Absolute Best of Tulsa" award for "Best Locally Produced, Independent Album" in 2007. He had completed recording his sophomore album before his appearance on American Idol. Over the weekend of April 18 to April 20, 2008, Analog Heart was listed as the number one album for "Today's Top MP3 Albums" on Amazon.com. Soon there after, the album was removed from Amazon.
Cook was the lead singer and guitarist of the band Axium from 1999 until 2006. He formed Axium in his junior year of high school with drummer Bobby Kerr. One of the band's songs, "Hold," was picked up by AMC Theatres Movie Tunes and was played before previews on over 20,000 screens nationwide. Axium was also named one of the top 15 independent bands in the country in the "Got Milk?" independent band contest, and it was chosen as the best band in Kansas City in 2004.
In 2006, after the breakup of Axium, Cook relocated to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and joined the regional touring band Midwest Kings, playing guitar, bass, and singing backup vocals. He recorded one EP, Incoherent with Desire to Move On, with the band in 2006. He also worked as a bartender at several Tulsa clubs, including Blank Slate and Rehab Lounge.
Cook released a solo independent album, Analog Heart, in 2006, the year he graduated from the college. It was written from 2004 to 2006, and he designed the artwork as well. The album was chosen as the fourth-best CD released in 2006 by website Music Equals Life. Cook also won the Urban Tulsa Weekly's "Absolute Best of Tulsa" award for "Best Locally Produced, Independent Album" in 2007. He had completed recording his sophomore album before his appearance on American Idol. Over the weekend of April 18 to April 20, 2008, Analog Heart was listed as the number one album for "Today's Top MP3 Albums" on Amazon.com. Soon there after, the album was removed from Amazon.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
American Idol Top 11
It's time for the first single cut on American Idol, where one of the 12 finalists will be sent packing.
Jim Carrey is there for some cross-promotion of this movie he is in, and he's also sitting so close to Ryan Seacrest's TelePromTer that it keeps sneaking into shots. Whoops!
Then Ryan announces that there was such a positive response to this week that they have changed next week's theme and are doing more of the Lennon-McCartney songbook. Why? No, seriously. Those amazing songs ate some of these kids alive, and it wasn't pretty. Why are we doing this again?
Before I can scream "whyyyyyyyy" for too much longer, the Top 12 come out for a cheesy group sing. It's Beatles, so the songs are good, but the dance moves? Cheesy.
Then, the contestants are in the hot seat ...
Ryan has Carly Smithson, Michael Johns, Syesha Mercado and Jason Castro stand. Carly is safe. So is Michael. As is Jason. Syesha, however, is in the bottom three. Randy and Paula say she should be safe, but Simon says she deserves to be in the bottom three. With that, she has to sing again.
Next, the contestants ruin the song "The Distance" with their commercial this week. Thanks, y'all.
Chikezie, Amanda Overmyer, Kristy Lee Cook and David Cook are asked to stand. Ryan calls Chikezie forward to see if he is sweating like last night and tells him he is safe. Amanda Overmyer: safe. David Cook is also safe. Kristy Lee Cook asks Ryan where her microphone is, but first, he has to go through all the judges' comments. He gives her the mike. She says, "I'm sorry you have to hear it again." I'm sorry, too. Again, it's not even really her voice. It's the viciously bad arrangement.
Then viewers call in with questions, and it is what it is.
Next up, Katherine McPhee comes out to sing George Harrison's "Something" accompanied by David Foster on piano.
Back to the results. David Archuleta, Brooke White, David Hernandez and Ramiele Malubay come to the front of the stage. David Archuleta is safe. Brooke White, also safe. Ramiele Malubay is safe, and David Hernandez is in the bottom three. He sings.
Syesha, Kristy Lee and David hit center stage. Ryan tells Syesha she is safe after dragging it out for a while.
First finalist ousted is: David Hernandez.
Jim Carrey is there for some cross-promotion of this movie he is in, and he's also sitting so close to Ryan Seacrest's TelePromTer that it keeps sneaking into shots. Whoops!
Then Ryan announces that there was such a positive response to this week that they have changed next week's theme and are doing more of the Lennon-McCartney songbook. Why? No, seriously. Those amazing songs ate some of these kids alive, and it wasn't pretty. Why are we doing this again?
Before I can scream "whyyyyyyyy" for too much longer, the Top 12 come out for a cheesy group sing. It's Beatles, so the songs are good, but the dance moves? Cheesy.
Then, the contestants are in the hot seat ...
Ryan has Carly Smithson, Michael Johns, Syesha Mercado and Jason Castro stand. Carly is safe. So is Michael. As is Jason. Syesha, however, is in the bottom three. Randy and Paula say she should be safe, but Simon says she deserves to be in the bottom three. With that, she has to sing again.
Next, the contestants ruin the song "The Distance" with their commercial this week. Thanks, y'all.
Chikezie, Amanda Overmyer, Kristy Lee Cook and David Cook are asked to stand. Ryan calls Chikezie forward to see if he is sweating like last night and tells him he is safe. Amanda Overmyer: safe. David Cook is also safe. Kristy Lee Cook asks Ryan where her microphone is, but first, he has to go through all the judges' comments. He gives her the mike. She says, "I'm sorry you have to hear it again." I'm sorry, too. Again, it's not even really her voice. It's the viciously bad arrangement.
Then viewers call in with questions, and it is what it is.
Next up, Katherine McPhee comes out to sing George Harrison's "Something" accompanied by David Foster on piano.
Back to the results. David Archuleta, Brooke White, David Hernandez and Ramiele Malubay come to the front of the stage. David Archuleta is safe. Brooke White, also safe. Ramiele Malubay is safe, and David Hernandez is in the bottom three. He sings.
Syesha, Kristy Lee and David hit center stage. Ryan tells Syesha she is safe after dragging it out for a while.
First finalist ousted is: David Hernandez.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
About Ramiele Malubay
Name: Ramiele Malubay
Age: 20
Hometown: Miramar, FL
Favorite Quote: "If you're hated, you're doing something right."
Audition City: Miami
Musical Influences: My musical influences would be Aretha Franklin, Jackson 5, Mariah Carey, Lani Misalocha, and Regine Velasquez.
What has been your proudest moment in life so far?
My proudest moment in life so far has to be making it this far in American Idol and changing into a better person this year.
If you couldn't sing, which talent would you most like to have?
If I couldn't, I would want to be an incredible dancer.
Who is your favorite judge and why?
My favorite judge is Paula because she's super sweet and, without heels, we see eye to eye.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
People would be surprised to learn that instead of singing in the shower, I dance.
Do you have any lucky charms?
My lucky charm is my guardian angel coin.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Don't Leave Me This Way Lyrics
Don't Leave Me This Way
Thelma Houston
Um-hm-hm... aah ah ah...
Don't leave me this way
I can't survive, can't stay alive
Without your love, oh baby
Don't leave me this way, no
I can't exist, I'll surely miss your tender kiss
Don't leave me this way
(A broken man with empty hands
Oh baby please, don't leave me this way)
Aaah baby, my heart is full of love and desire for you
Now come on down and do what you gotta do
(Now come on girl and do what you gotta do)
You started this fire down in my soul
Now can't you see it's burning out of control
Come on (now) satisfy the need in me
Only your good lovin' can set me free... hey
Don't, don't you leave me this way, no
Don't you understand I'm at your command
Oh baby please, please don't leave me this way
Aaah baby, my heart is full of love and desire for you
Now come on down and do what you gotta do
(Now come on girl and do what you gotta do)
You started this fire down in my soul
Now can't you see it's burning out of control
Come on (now) satisfy the need in me
Only your good lovin' can set me free... hey
Need your lovin' baby, need need your love right now...
Your love is so important to me... got to have it...
('Cause it would be wrong
To string me along a love so true)
Thelma Houston
Um-hm-hm... aah ah ah...
Don't leave me this way
I can't survive, can't stay alive
Without your love, oh baby
Don't leave me this way, no
I can't exist, I'll surely miss your tender kiss
Don't leave me this way
(A broken man with empty hands
Oh baby please, don't leave me this way)
Aaah baby, my heart is full of love and desire for you
Now come on down and do what you gotta do
(Now come on girl and do what you gotta do)
You started this fire down in my soul
Now can't you see it's burning out of control
Come on (now) satisfy the need in me
Only your good lovin' can set me free... hey
Don't, don't you leave me this way, no
Don't you understand I'm at your command
Oh baby please, please don't leave me this way
Aaah baby, my heart is full of love and desire for you
Now come on down and do what you gotta do
(Now come on girl and do what you gotta do)
You started this fire down in my soul
Now can't you see it's burning out of control
Come on (now) satisfy the need in me
Only your good lovin' can set me free... hey
Need your lovin' baby, need need your love right now...
Your love is so important to me... got to have it...
('Cause it would be wrong
To string me along a love so true)
Don't Leave Me This Way
First charting as a hit for Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, an act on Gamble & Huff's Philadelphia International label in 1975, "Don't Leave Me This Way" was later a hit single for both Thelma Houston and again for The Communards.
The Blue Notes' original version of the song, featuring Teddy Pendergrass' lead vocal, was included as an album track on the group's successful Wake Up Everybody LP. Though not issued as a single in the United States, the Blue Notes' recording reached #3 on the Billboard Disco charts and later reached #5 on the UK singles chart. "Don't Leave Me This Way" was covered by Motown artist Thelma Houston in 1977. Her version, with its more overt disco arrangement, was a massive international hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart for a single week in April 1977. The song peaked at #13 in the UK. The song is considered by many to be not only one of the Greatest Disco songs of all time but one of the Greatest Songs of the entire 1970's as well.
Nine years later, the song was revived by The Communards in an avowedly Hi-NRG version. This recording topped the UK charts for four weeks in September 1986, becoming the biggest selling record of the year in the process. The featured guest vocalist was jazz singer Sarah Jane Morris. The song only reached #40 on the Billboard Hot 100 but did top the Billboard Dance chart.
Houston's version was revived in 1995 in a remix, which reached #19 on the Billboard Dance Chart and #35 in the UK.
The song has been recorded by several other artists including Sheena Easton, José Galisteo, Andy Abraham, and The Temptations, amongst others.
The Thelma Houston cover of "Don't Leave Me This Way" was ranked #87 on VH1's "100 Greatest One-hit Wonders".
The Blue Notes' original version of the song, featuring Teddy Pendergrass' lead vocal, was included as an album track on the group's successful Wake Up Everybody LP. Though not issued as a single in the United States, the Blue Notes' recording reached #3 on the Billboard Disco charts and later reached #5 on the UK singles chart. "Don't Leave Me This Way" was covered by Motown artist Thelma Houston in 1977. Her version, with its more overt disco arrangement, was a massive international hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart for a single week in April 1977. The song peaked at #13 in the UK. The song is considered by many to be not only one of the Greatest Disco songs of all time but one of the Greatest Songs of the entire 1970's as well.
Nine years later, the song was revived by The Communards in an avowedly Hi-NRG version. This recording topped the UK charts for four weeks in September 1986, becoming the biggest selling record of the year in the process. The featured guest vocalist was jazz singer Sarah Jane Morris. The song only reached #40 on the Billboard Hot 100 but did top the Billboard Dance chart.
Houston's version was revived in 1995 in a remix, which reached #19 on the Billboard Dance Chart and #35 in the UK.
The song has been recorded by several other artists including Sheena Easton, José Galisteo, Andy Abraham, and The Temptations, amongst others.
The Thelma Houston cover of "Don't Leave Me This Way" was ranked #87 on VH1's "100 Greatest One-hit Wonders".
You Don't Have to Say You Love Me
"You Don't Have to Say You Love Me" is a song recorded by British singer Dusty Springfield. It is an English version of an Italian song called "Io che non vivo (senza te)" written by Pino Donaggio and Vito Pallavicini. Springfield heard it at the Sanremo Festival in 1965 where it was performed by Donaggio himself and his team partner Jody Miller, and she presented it to Vicki Wickham and Simon Napier-Bell, who wrote the English lyrics for the song. Released in early 1966, the single release of Springfield's recording became a huge hit and remains one of the songs most identified with her. The song hit #1 in Britain, the only #1 of Springfield's career there, and #4 in the USA. The song proved so popular in the USA that Springfield's 1965 album Ev'rything's Coming Up Dusty was released there with a slightly different track listing, and titled after the hit single.
Ramiele Malubay
Ramiele Malubay (74854) is a 20-year-old from Miramar, Florida who auditioned in Miami. Born in Saudi Arabia, she is the only Asian American to make it the semi-finals in this season. She is also a Filipino American and her favorite singer is Regine Velasquez.
Her songs:
"You Don't Have to Say You Love Me" (Dusty Springfield)
"Don't Leave Me This Way" (Thelma Houston)
Her songs:
"You Don't Have to Say You Love Me" (Dusty Springfield)
"Don't Leave Me This Way" (Thelma Houston)
American Idol Season 7
The seventh season of American Idol, which premiered on January 15, 2008, is the current season of the annual popular reality show and singing competition. Ryan Seacrest continues to host the show with Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson returning as judges. The successful program continues to search for and discover the best young singer in the country, through a series of nationwide auditions along with weekly rounds of intense competition and eliminations airing live, based on public voting by phone during the results shows typically airing on Thursdays.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
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Like most standard Web site servers we use log files. This includes internet protocol (IP) addresses, browser type, internet service provider (ISP), referring/exit pages, platform type, date/time stamp, and number of clicks to analyze trends, administer the site, track user’s movement in the aggregate, and gather broad demographic information for aggregate use. IP addresses, etc. are not linked to personally identifiable information.
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A cookie is a piece of data stored on the user’s computer tied to information about the user. Our site don’t use cookies. However, Some of our business partners use cookies on our site (for example, advertisers). However, we have no access to or control over these cookies, once we have given permission for them to set cookies for advertising. If you wish to disable cookies, you may do so through your individual browser options.
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This Web site contains links to other sites. Please be aware that we are not responsible for the privacy practices of such other sites. We encourage our users to be aware when they leave our site and to read the privacy statements of each and every Web site that collects personally identifiable information. This privacy statement applies solely to information collected by this Web site.
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