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Local man head-butted, punched on TV

By Ben McLaughlin | Wednesday, May 21, 2008, 03:28 PM

It might not be the way you want your 15 minutes of fame, but then again, if you are on Tila Tequila’s show, you probably will take your 15 minutes any way you can.

Bo from Fairborn, a contestant on a Shot at Love 2 With Tila Tequila

Brandon “Bo” Kunkle, a 24-year-old from Fairborn, was head-butted and punched by Chad, a fellow contestant. The fight sent Bo to the hospital for stitches, and cost him some dental work.

It might also help him get closer to Tila in the long run.

Want to watch the big fight? MTV has it here. It is TV-14, though it might not be suitable for adults to watch either.

What do you think of Bo’s ‘Shot at Love’ now?

And the Mirror Ball Trophy goes to… “Dancing with the Stars” Results FInale Latest Update

By Craig Schrolucke | Tuesday, May 20, 2008, 09:21 PM

Tears, twirls, laughs, jumps, cheers, twists and flowing moments pretty much sum up this season of “Dancing with the Stars.”

The musical/dance guest for tonight’s (May 20) show is Usher… dancing and sining something that combined hip-hop, R & B and river Dance into one number. Loved the song.

Without too much delay - the first couple to go is revealed. Taking home third place this season of “Dancing with the Stars” is…

Cristian De La Fuente & Cheryl Burke

Other than finding out who the winner of this season will be, another highlight for me was the announcement of the winner of the kids’ ballroom competition. Brandon and Brittany were awarded the Mirror Ball as Jr. Champions of “Dancing with the Stars” by the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders.

By this point in the season, the last thing most of us want to see is a two-recap of the season past… Someday, when I own a network, I can make those changes… until then, recaps.

Kristi Yamaguchi & Mark Ballas -
Danced their final dance. Tonight’s scores - 10 - 10 - 10 for another 30 points, giving the pair 90 out of 90 points that will be added to America’s votes.

Jason Taylor & Edyta Sliwinska
Saving the best performance for last Jason and Edyta bring down the house. Tonight’s scores - 10 - 10 - 10 for 30 out of 30 bringing their total to 81 out of 90.

So who will be the mirror ball winner? Will it be Kristi or Jason?

The “Dancing with the Stars” champions for this season are…

Photos ABC.com

Kristi Yamaguchi & Mark Ballas -

I think America got this one right. Agree? Do you have a favorite moment from this season?

Only one David left standing after “American Idol” battle. Latest Update Finale

By Craig Schrolucke | Tuesday, May 20, 2008, 08:19 PM

Perhaps not the battle of the century as billed by the announcer, but tonight’s battle between the two Davids is sure to epic.

As the show kicks off… the producers seemed to feel it necessary to take this whole battle thing way too far! I’m ready David’s going to whomp David right? At least the opening was a little different.

Guided by Clive Davis and Andrew Lloyd Weber the final two are set to duel.

Round One:

David Cook
Tonight’s songs - “Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking for.”
My Take - Nice job… He seemed a little flat here and there… Certainly a song that suits his style.
Randy - “DC - great way to start off this duel. It was hot baby. ”
Paula - ” We have found David Cook. David Cook has arrived. ”
Simon -” You looked very tense, very emotional… taking all of that together, I thought I was phenomenal “

David Archuleta
Tonight’s songs - “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.”
My Take - A predictable song choice for him. I was ready to give round one to David Cook… but I have to say I think round one should go to Archuleta.
Randy - “It doesn’t matter what happens… you picked the right time to peak baby. That was flawless… unbelievably molten hot. ”
Paula - ” I’ve got chill running down my arms. David that was a beautiful sunny performance. ”
Simon -” I though last week you were okay. I thought tonight’s performance was the best you’ve done so far. “

Round Two:

David Cook
Tonight’s songs - “Dream Big”
My Take - Ah.. the guitar is back… Nice Job of bringing back a song and making it sound like new.
Randy - “What made it really work… is you hit the notes. ”
Paula - ” Song in your heart, a guitar in your hands and we millions are mesmerized by you. ”
Simon -” It was a bit of a lightweight. It didn’t feel like a winning moment for me. “

David Archuleta
Tonight’s songs - ” In This Moment”
My Take - This kid’s got some range… even if you wouldn’t buy his records. That was nearly flawless.
Randy - “I wasn’t crazy about about the song… but right now you could sing the phone book and it would be good. ”
Paula - ” It was just another heartfelt performance. ”
Simon -” I love the egotistical lyrics. You definetly choose the better song. Round Two Archuleta. “

Round Three: Contestants’ Choice

David Cook
Tonight’s songs - “The World I Know”
My Take - David did a great job of making this song fresh… but was it enough… it seems the little David might have the edge and be the next American Idol. Without a doubt - commercial
Randy - “One of the cool things about you. Very nice job. ”
Paula - ” You are standing in your truth… I applaud you David Cook. ”
Simon -“You are one of the nicest most sincere contestants we have had. It was completely and utterly the wrong song choice for the night. “

David Archuleta
Tonight’s songs - “Imagine”
My Take - What a great song choice to end the competition for this little wonder. Based on the three performances you’d have to give the night to Archuleta! Amazing.
Randy - “Dude you are so good tonight. You are exactly what this show is about. ”
Paula - “It’s the culmination. You were stunning tonight. ”
Simon -“At the end of the day, this show is about finding a star. And, tonight, I think we’ve witnessed one of the great finals. You came out here tonight to win and what we’ve witnessed is a knock-out “

So, after three rounds, the next American Idol is likely to be David Archuleta.

What do you think?

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Which David should win? “American Idol” Latest Update

By Craig Schrolucke | Tuesday, May 20, 2008, 07:22 AM

It seems pretty safe to say that if the readers of this blog had anything to do with selecting the next American Idol, it most likely wouldn’t be David Archuleta.

Talented way beyond his years, most commenters have said they wouldn’t buy his albums and that his voice was boring.

Not sure I agree with those thoughts, but I do see where their point of view.

Time to vote - Who do you think will be the next “American Idol.”

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Why do you think your David will win?

Other Idol postings…

Does a woman have what it takes? “Dancing with the Stars” Finale

By Craig Schrolucke | Monday, May 19, 2008, 09:59 PM

After several season’s of the men taking the ‘Dancing with the Stars’ title, can a woman pull out a win? With more then 2000 combined hours of pactice, 2182 combined judges points and 3 trips to the emergency room the ‘Dancing with the Stars’ finale is here and Kristi Yamaguchi is the one to beat.

Tonight’s (May 19) show has the final three teams dancing a cha cha face-off and a freestyle number. So, who will win? The odds on favorite according to bodoglife.com, is Yamaguchi - the long shot, at 20/1, is Cristián de la Fuente. Only America knows for sure as half of the point awarded from the online and telephone voting and the rest of the points are awarded by the judges so it really is anyone’s dance.

Kristi Yamaguchi & Mark Ballas -
This week’s first dance - Cha Cha

My Take - No wonder she’s the odd on fav. That was hot!
Carrie Ann Inaba - “It’s ladies night. You won that hands down. ” - Score 10
Len Goodman -“It takes a lot to get me going. The complete package. ” Score 10
Bruno Tonioli -“You are dancing with the stars. ” Score 10
30 out of 30

Second dance - Freestyle

My Take - Early on the timing seemed a little off for this point in the show… too bad she couldn’t-have ended with that last number. Although the crowd loved it. We’ll just have to see how the rest do.
Carrie Ann Inaba - ” You were the big crowd pleaser. Love it. ” - Score 10
Len Goodman -” This held my attention from start to finish. I absolutely loved it.” Score 10
Bruno Tonioli -“So demanding. You didn’t miss beat.’ Score 10
30 out of 30

Total for the night, a perfect 60 out of 60.

Jason Taylor & Edyta Sliwinska
This week’s first dance - The Cha Cha

My Take - That jump was wild! But I think they are in trouble this week.
Carrie Ann Inaba - “I thought you carried it out with a lot of fun and excitement.” - Score 8
Len Goodman -“You’ve got style. ” Score 8
Bruno Tonioli -“.’ Score 8
24 out of 30

Second dance - Freestyle

My Take - They seemed to lost steam as the dance went along.
Carrie Ann Inaba - “Nice ending. Jason Taylor can get funky.” - Score 9
Len Goodman -“I liked the humor. Fantastic Job. ” Score 9
Bruno Tonioli -“If you’ve got it flaunt. Great Lifts. ’ Score 8
27 out of 30

Total of 51 out of 60

Cristian De La Fuente & Cheryl Burke
This week’s first dance - Face off cha cha

My Take - It seemed like Cristian’s injury was returning to haunt him.
Carrie Ann Inaba - “I thought it was fantastic.” - Score 8
Len Goodman -“You’ve got all the gear at the rear. ” Score 9
Bruno Tonioli -“You really showed your improvement.” Score 9
26 out of 30

Second dance - Freestyle

My Take - Who knew you could shake so many parts of the body?
Carrie Ann Inaba - “Some of the lift weren’t up to the others tonight. ” - Score 9
Len Goodman -“For one arm you did bloody well. ” Score 8
Bruno Tonioli -“I see a winner in so many other ways, you never gave up. ” Score 9
26 out of 30

Total for the night - 52 out of 60.

With out a doubt, it was Kristi’s night and she’s likely to be the next Mirror Ball award winner. Agree?

Let the battle of the David’s begin! “American Idol” Latest Update - Results Show

By Craig Schrolucke | Wednesday, May 14, 2008, 09:30 PM

“Ain’t No Stopping Us Now” by McFadden & Whitehead opened tonight’s “American Idol.” Too bad there is stopping one of the Idol wannabes after America cast more than 56 million votes narrowing the Idol 7 cast to two.

Fantasia helped to get the crowd worked up tonight (May 14) with her electrifying performance and her electrifying red hair.

To get the drama going Ryan calls David Archuleta to the stage as we watch him on his trip home… tears and all. Ryan drags out the result suggesting the race is tight. Rather than giving us the result the show cuts away to another montage of Archuleta on his Idol journey… now a commercial.

Now it’s Syesha’s turn with Ryan. This time we travel with Syesha back to her home town where the people of Florida like to throw their babies at the Idol wannabe… and tear for Syesha too. I’m guessing we’ll travel along with David Cook before we find out who is out.

Yep, now it is David Cook’s turn to share his trip back to his hometown with America. In one of the more revealing tid bits. David is actually on the show because of his brother. It was is brother who was to audition. But in a quirky turn of events, it’s David who is one of the Idol contestants this season.

Cook’s trip back home included parades, cheerleaders and tears…

But who goes… more delays in getting the results… finally?….

Going tonight is…

Syesha Mercada

I think America got this right… do you agree?

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If you want to see the Idol Tour - tickets go on sale Saturday.

Can Syesha break up the Davids? Latest update on American Idol

By Ben McLaughlin | Tuesday, May 13, 2008, 08:35 PM

We get down to the final three, and Craig needs some help on the blog. No pressure on me, right?

Actually, the pressure is on Syesha Mercado, who has the unenviable position of trying to break up the coronation of the Davids — Archuleta and Cook. It seems like the judges and producers have wanted the two Davids in the finale from the start.

Tonight, the judges pick a song, the contestants pick one and the producers pick the last.

David Archuleta is up first, and he gets Paula, who chooses “And So It Goes” by Billy Joel.

My take: I didn’t like this compared to the Joel version. The arrangement made the song seem older to me, and David already makes me think he’s far older than 17.

Randy: You can sing anything … You are in the zone.

Paula: It was a pure and stunning performance, and tonight I really felt that you were a storyteller.

Simon: It was very good. No surprises, a bit predictable. It was good; I don’t think it was outstanding.

Syesha is up next, and Randy Jackson picks “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys.

My take: I think she nailed it vocally, but because Randy picked a more current song by an artist who is hot now, I think it’s harder for Syesha to stand out. (This goes back to the copycat issue she was criticized for early in the competition.)

Randy: You did an amazing job on it … I am so happy that you are peaking at the right time in this competition.

Paula: It’s difficult to do a song that is so identifiable with the beautiful artist such as Alicia.

Simon: You sang that very well Syesha. I just wish that Randy had chosen something for you where you weren’t going to just try and sound like the original.

David Cook gets Simon, who picks “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” by Roberta Flack. Simon says he picked it so David has a chance to show originality.

My take: I thought vocally he was a bit off on some of the notes, and that might be the first time I can remember thinking that about David. He did make it his own as the song moved along, but not as much as I thought he would.

Randy: I’ve been a David Cook fan since Day One. Loved the high note at the end, but I wish Simon would not have picked something that wasn’t as predictable as this older kind of song for you. I needed more rock from you.

Paula: That is one of my favorite songs, and now you are my second favorite person who sings it.

Simon: This may sound a little bit biased, but I thought it was actually one of your best performances to date. You take risks. Round One goes to Cook and Cowell.

Round Two

David Archuleta chooses “With You” by Chris Brown. David said he wanted to try something younger sounding.

My take: I think David gets a free pass from the judges at times. I think he blew the lyrics once and was out of synch with the music. He also had some diction problems. Not a good performance or choice. (I hope David’s dad doesn’t come after me for saying that.)

Randy: I applaud the fact that you are trying something new and young … I’m not sure it was the right song.

Paula: I think you should be singing songs like this … I would work on just getting right into it, not extending the phrases. I think you did a great job.

Simon: It was a little bit like a Chihauhua trying to be like a tiger. I thought it was all a little bit awkward. It wasn’t really you.

For her number, Syesha chose “Fever” by Peggy Lee.

My take: Fun performance, good vocals, but a bit predictable overall. It reminds me of why earlier in the season I said she would be better on Broadway.

Randy: Very interesting song choice at this point … you sang it very well. Paula: I’m surprised you picked this song. I’m not sure that it shows me who Syesha is as an artist.

Simon: I think you will probably regret that decision tomorrow because you had a chance to prove you are a contemporary recording artist with your own choice of song. Instead, you did quite a lame cabaret performance.

David Cook picked Switchfoot’s “Dare You to Move.”

My take: I don’t think he nailed the vocals early, but he hit them when the song kicked into higher gear. And, he played the guitar, which we have seen helps contestants this year.

Randy: It wasn’t your best tonight, a little pitchy maybe.

Paula: I feel like you just got to the beginning when you hit the end of the song, and I wanted more.

Simon: It was pretty much what I would have expected. I think all three of you had an OK middle round.

Round Three

Producers chose “Longer” by Dan Fogelberg for David Archuleta.

My take: OK, so he can sing, and this type of song is fine for him, but … I’m never going to buy anything of his as a recording artist. He’s background music at best.

Randy: Once again, very interesting song choice for you. Another hot one for you.

Paula: It was a lovely performance from you.

Simon: You sang the song very well. I thought the song and the lyrics was absolutely horrible. I do think you’ve done enough to get into the finals next week.

Syesha drew “Hit Me Up” by Gia Farrell from the soundtrack of “Happy Feet.”

My take: I’m not terribly familiar with the song, but I thought she did OK … yes, just OK. She needed more.

Randy: Yeah, I could see you doing a song like that. It was just OK for me.

Paula: You did the song very well. I don’t know if it’s the song that defines you. I don’t know if it’s going to be good enough to get into the finals of American Idol.

Simon: It was better than the second song. If I am being honest with you, you had your best moment last week … I don’t think anything this week has topped that.

David Cook got Aerosmith’s “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” from producers.

My take: I think this was his best vocal of the night, but he seemed out of synch with the music near the end, and he had to force a longer song into too tight a timetable.

Randy: For me, it was OK for me. Very predictable for me.

Paula: See ya in the finals.

Simon: One of the great songs of all time, and I have to tell you: David Cook wins the night.

OK. Truth is I hoped Syesha would shine tonight enough to upset one of the Davids, but I don’t think she did it.

What do you think?

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Final Four Compete ‘Dancing with the Stars” latest Update Semifinals

By Craig Schrolucke | Monday, May 12, 2008, 08:39 PM

It’s down to the final four. In a semi-final twist the remaining teams will chose their latin and ballroom dances from a hat - drawn at random - Increasing the level of difficulty for the Dancers. Also, no lifts will be allowed. Wouldn’t it be fun if the dancers got their dances just before they hit the stage?

Each pair will dance two dances.

Jason Taylor & Edyta Sliwinska
This week’s first dance - The Fox Trot

My Take -It seemed like they were going through the motions. No emotional connection.
Carrie Ann Inaba - “I thought that was really truly beautiful.” - Score 9
Len Goodman -“It was fantastic. ” - Score 10
Bruno Tonioli - “This had plenty of moment. You were showman tonight. ” - Score 9
28 out of 30

Second Dance - Pasa Doble

My Take - Elements of this Spanish dance were WOW… at other moments Jason looked like he was a tinker town stick figure.
Carrie Ann Inaba - “Nice execution.” - Score 9
Len Goodman -“You came all out full boar.” - Score 9
Bruno Tonioli - “It looked like a true matador.” - Score 9
27 out of 30

Total for the night 55 out of 60.

Marissa Jaret Winokur & Tony Dovolani

This week’s first dance - The Quick Step

My Take - If nothing else this couple should get an award for the most improved… What a fun dance to watch they were having a great time!
Carrie Ann Inaba - “You turned into the unlikely contender.” - Score 9
Len Goodman -“I thought you did a great job.” - Score 9
Bruno Tonioli - “You started like a little locomotive and then you took off like an Orient Express.” - Score 8
26 out of 30

Second Dance - The Rumba

My Take -
Carrie Ann Inaba - “It’s got to be exciting.’ - Score 8
Len Goodman -“I thought you did a very very good job. That was a wow of a Rumba.” - Score 9
Bruno Tonioli - “You did sexy in the city. ” - Score 9
26 out of 30

Total for tonight 52 out of 60.

Cristian De La Fuente & Cheryl Burke
This week’s first dance - The Viennese Waltz

My Take - I don’t think I cared for the music choice with this dance… but that’s just me. Nice job with one arm.
Carrie Ann Inaba - “It’s so enjoyable to watch.” - Score 9
Len Goodman -“Better marks.” - Score 9
Bruno Tonioli - “You play off each other beautiful.” - Score 9
27 out of 30

Second Dance - The Samba

My Take - They were having a great time. He has danced so much better since
Carrie Ann Inaba - “that was fantastic. Party dance - way to go.” - Score 10
Len Goodman -“That was hotter than a chili pepper.” - Score 9
Bruno Tonioli - “YOu came back here and make the samba ” - Score 10
29 out of 30

Total for tonight 56 out of 60

Kristi Yamaguchi & Mark Ballas -

This week’s first dance - The Tango

My Take - That was pretty amazing. One of the best dances of the season.
Carrie Ann Inaba - “Welcome back!” - Score 10
Len Goodman -“You did get the drama back. Sometimes for me it was little bit hectic.” - Score 9
Bruno Tonioli - “You squeezed every single bit of dram passion, sex appeal ” - Score 10
29 out of 30

Second Dance - The Jive

My Take - Wow… that took a lot of energy.
Carrie Ann Inaba - “You were just a hair out of sync.” - Score 9
Len Goodman -“You moved well across the floor. Sometimes just a little bit stiff. ” - Score 9
Bruno Tonioli - “This one is the cherry on on the icing of the cake. Sweet - sweet delicious jive.” - Score 10
28 out of 30

Total 57 out of 60

It looks like Marissa and Tony finished at the bottom using the judges scores… do you agree? Will they be the couple to go home?

Archuleta’s Dad Banned from “American Idol” Latest update

By Craig Schrolucke | Sunday, May 11, 2008, 04:22 PM

Stories have been flying around the internet since the beginning of the season about David Archuleta’s meddling father. This weekend, (May 10) the AP and other news sources are reporting Jeff Archuleta, David’s father, has lost his backstage pass and is now banned from rehearsals.

According to the reports, David’s father “made a lyric change on Tuesday’s show that pushed producers to act.” The anonymous inside source also said of David’s father, “despite warnings from the producers (he) added a verse from another song causing “American Idol” to incur additional costs.”

The UPI is reporting that Simon Cowell, one of the more outspoken judges, is downplaying the ban. Cowell is quoted as saying “David Archuleta’s father may no longer be backstage at the U.S. TV series, but he can be in the audience.”

Jeff Archuleta’s behavior has surround the Idol wannabe long before Idol. In an interview on the Today Show, Naomi Judd has some words of advice for David Archuleta’s father: “Leave him alone - his dad is like a monster.”

In March, TMZ, FOX news and others reported Jeff Archuleta, had to be “barred from the lot.” The site alleges that David dad’s photo was “hanging in the guard shack in case he tried sneaking in.”

Why not let David Archuleta win or lose on his own… Perhaps the producers should remove all the parents and/or family from the backstage area to ensure the performances are that of the contestant without outside influence or manipulation. There’s a thought! or better yet, - Why not ban Jeff Archuleta altogether… if he was altering a song - he should go - shouldn’t he - or at least shouldn’t Archuleta be disqualified?

What do you think?

He’s finally out! Results show ‘American Idol’ Latest Update

By Craig Schrolucke | Wednesday, May 7, 2008, 09:05 PM

In just two weeks from tonight, American will have its’ next ‘American Idol.”

Last night (May 6) Ryan Seacrest tells viewers to “Vote like never before.” And that is just what America did, voting more than 51 million times. Ryan reveals the top three vote-getters are within one million votes of each other - could it be a David?

Was it just me or did anyone else notice, as the top four were singing “Reeling in the Years,” Jason seemed to be lip synching? Perhaps Jason Castro is finally lowest vote getter… but who knows.

Setting the stage for a little drama Ryan calls David Archuleta first to reveal who is safe for after last night’s competition.. Starting with David Archuleta.

Before we find out who will be joining David in the safe zone we get to see the Idol Wannabe’s living it up in Vegas! Didn’t that Cirque du Soliel show look amazing?

Finally, who’s next? Ryan calls David Cook. Randy tells David that if he makes it through to the finals he needs to “rock it out.” America voted we are headed toward a David vs. David showdown…. unless Syesha get through and brings her A game.

Next up are Syesha and Jason Castro. Ryan taunts the two by acting like he’ll be revealing the lowest vote getter…you guessed it, he didn’t. It couldn’t be how will they make this show last until 10?

I think Johnny Cash wouldn’t have liked the wacky Ford commercial for the Mustang - Agree?

In one of the more awkward moments of the season the contests face questions from a caller on live television. Tonight, David Cook is asked out on a date - it’s pretty awkward. We also learned Jason Castro is brain dead. A caller wants Simon to be the next James Bond. Back to the show.

The musical acts for tonight’s show are Maroon 5 and Bo Brice. Maroon 5 screeched out a tune that sounded like a Scissor Sisters shifted shifted up an octave… or was it Alvin from Alvin and the Chipmunks? It was a catchy tune… it just needed a different vocal.

Bo Bice, an American Idol Contestant from season four, looking like Greg Allman back in the Cher Days, rocked the idol stage… I think he may have scared a few of the younger audience members.

And finally the results… Joining David and David next week will be… Syesha.

Finally going home is Jason Castro!

Do you agree or disagree with America? Discuss.

Other Idol postings…

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Dance, Dance, Dance - 100th episode “Dancing with the Stars” Latest Update

By Craig Schrolucke | Tuesday, May 6, 2008, 09:38 PM

Tonight’s (May 6) 100th episode celebration is all about dance, dance and more dance. But for one couple, the dance train stop here as another is voted of Dancing with the Stars.

Back for the special edition of the show are Apolo Anton Ohno and Julianne Hough performing to Rascal Flats. That was better than most of the guest bands this season.

Some of the other stars Vivica A. Fox,Kenny Mayne, Mark Cuban, Sabrina Bryan, Joey Fatone, Jerry Springer all plugging something.

Mario Lopez performed a number from his Broadway show, “Macy’s Stars of Dance” Presents A Chorus Line. Who knew he could dance like that… I forgot he was on the show before as a contestant. The Macy’s plug was a little silly But that’s what you get when you sponsor the show.

Mel B. And Maksim Chmerkovskiy came back to dance to “Life is a highway” as performed by Rascal Flats… They too, were hot! What a fun hour of TV…(or about 30 minutes if you fast forward through the commercials).

And finally, the elimination… Competing in next week’s semi-finals Marissa Jaret Winokur & Tony Dovolani, Kristi Yamaguchi & Mark Ballas, Cristian De La Fuente & Cheryl Burke (Pretty Amazing for being

Facing Elimination are… Mario & Karina Smirnoff or Jason Taylor & Edyta Sliwinska

The couple leaving the competition…

Photo - Abc.com

Mario & Karina Smirnof.

Agree?

Just two weeks left - who will be next to go? “American Idol’ Latest Update

By Craig Schrolucke | Tuesday, May 6, 2008, 08:34 PM

With just two weeks to go “American Idol 7” remaining isn’t the only question that remains unanswered… which David will win? Let’s see if the oddsmakers are correct.

A Night of Rock Round One:

David Cook
Tonight’s songs - “Hungry like the Wolf” Duran Duran
My Take - It seemed a little too predictable for this point in the competition. That performance could spell trouble for this Idol Wannabe.
Randy - ” that was okay choice for you… I’m just trying to see who has the mad hot vocals tonight. It was just okay. ”
Paula - ” You’re hungry like the wolf has left me with a big appetite.” WHAT
Simon -” I thought it was good. It was a little bit copy cat. “

Syesha Mercado
Tonight’s songs - “Proud Mary” Tina Turner
My Take - Great song choice for her. Let’s see what the judges say. I’m guessing she’s getting points for shaking it.
Randy - ” What a difference a couple of weeks make. She’s in the zone. ”
Paula - “You look like a star. ”
Simon -“For me, I thought it was a bad shrieky version. A bad impersonation of Tina Turner. “

Jason Castro
Tonight’s songs - “I shot the Sheriff” Bob Marley
My Take - So why was he holding the guitar - I don’t think he ever played it.
Randy - “For me, that was a real karaoke Bob Marley. There was nothing special about it. ”
Paula - “On a positive note, I’ve never seen you perform more to the audience than you did tonight. I wasn’t crazy about the performance. ”
Simon -“That was utterly atrocious. This was a first round audition massacre, honestly. “

David Archuleta
Tonight’s songs - “Stand by Me” Ben E. King
My Take - Look he kept his eyes open through the most of the song… what improvement… I know that sounds sarcastic… but I do mean it. Overall, that may have been the best performance of the night. I think he’ll be in the top two.
Randy - “At least there is one guy that hits the stage that is trying to win the whole thing. This is a competition. It was Hot! ”
Paula - “We all forget you are way beyond your years.” Even Paula commented on the eye thing.
Simon -“Truth is David you could have whistled and it would have sounded better than the last song. Very good choice of song. That was the best performance so far. “

Round Two;

David Cook
Tonight’s songs - “Teenage Wasteland” The Who
My Take - Notice the guitar - at least he played it. This was a much better song for him.
Randy - ” That’s more like the David Cook I’ve grown to love. ”
Paula - “I just want more.. I want more… more. ”
Simon -“Welcome back David Cook. “

Syesha Mercado
Tonight’s songs - “A Change is Going to Come” Sam Cook
My Take - I’m not sure what it is but when she’s singing a slower song it comes across as a stage/theatre performance - not a song from the next American Idol - Great voice though.
Randy - ” For me, This one I did not love so much. You were trying to push out things that weren’t even there. It feel flat for me. ”
Paula - “(Paula Stands) Beautiful. You turned this into something beautiful. Welcome to your dream Syesha. (Paula’s words start the river of tears…)”
Simon -“I have to be fair… I have to agree with Paula. “

Jason Castro
Tonight’s songs - ” Mr. Tambourine Man” Bob Dylan
My Take - This time he’s using the guitar…. Did he really forget the words??? or did I just mis-hear that section. I’m thinking he’s going home.
Randy - ” jason isn’t in the zone tonight.”
Paula - “It is what it is. It didn’t blow us away. ”
Simon -” Jason, I’d pack your suitcase. “

David Archuleta
Tonight’s songs - “Love me Tender” Elvis
My Take - That was pretty much flawless…
Randy - “Another great performance. You got it going on right now. ”
Paula - ” I felt your heart. Fantastic and very beautiful.”
Simon -“David, you didn’t beat the competition tonight, you crushed the competition tonight.”

I think Simon said it best, “David, you didn’t beat the competition tonight, you crushed the competition tonight.” Do you Agree… is David now the one to beat?

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Other Idol postings…

It’s a tie! ‘American Idol’ Latest Update

By Craig Schrolucke | Tuesday, May 6, 2008, 08:03 AM

If only - wouldn’t that be a shocker!

So, we’re down to the final weeks of season 7 of ‘American Idol’ and while many of you have suggested it will be a David who wins this season - which David will it be? Archuleta or Cook?

An online oddsmaker, bodoglife.com, has posted updated odds for the winner of this season’s show and guess what… even the oddsmakers think it will be a David.

David Archuleta 20/21
Jason Castro 25/1
David Cook 20/21
Syesha Mercado 50/1
http://www.bodoglife.com/

These odds also seem to suggest that Syesha Mercado is the long shot. Although, I’d have to believe that Jason Castro is the long shot… and really, why are people still voting for him? He clearly could care less if he was there and his last two performances were… underwhelming?

Thoughts on who will go tonight (May 6)?

Other Idol postings…

99th Episode of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ latest update

By Craig Schrolucke | Monday, May 5, 2008, 11:35 PM

After 2857 hours of combined practicing, 89 competitive routines, 2125 combined judges points and three trips to the emergency room it comes down to the finale.

Tonight’s (May 19) finale has the contestant’s dancing in a cha cha face off and free style competition.

Jason Taylor & Edyta Sliwinska
This week’s first dance - The Tango

My Take - - Score 10
Carrie Ann Inaba - I don’t think it went so well.” - Score 8
Len Goodman -” - Score 9
Bruno Tonioli - “.” - Score 10
29 out of 30

Second Dance - Samba

My Take - If you just watch Jason’s footwork… it wasn’t so great…
Carrie Ann Inaba - I don’t think it went so well.” - Score 8
Len Goodman - ” It was alrgiht.” Score 7
Bruno Tonioli -“You’ve got a turkey tonight with this samba.” - Score 8
Total 52 out of 60

Cristian De La Fuente & Cheryl Burke
This week’s first dance - Tango

My Take -Not bad for being injured! Clearly not their best - but still a strong performance.
Carrie Ann Inaba - “I saw nothing at all wrong with that.” - Score 10
Len Goodman - “Cheryl, great job.” - Score 9
Bruno Tonioli - “You are the man with the golden arm. That was very good.” - Score 9
28 out of 30

Second Dance - Mambo

My Take - Wow! they figured out to make the one are work… This dance had the most crowd response of any for the night!
Carrie Ann Inaba - ” You two are definitely on fire.” - Score 10
Len Goodman -“Full of energy. Fabulous Job.” - Score 9
Bruno Tonioli - “The things you can do with one arm.” - Score 10

Total for the night 57 out of 60

Kristi Yamaguchi & Mark Ballas -
This week’s first dance - Quick Step

My Take - If that was her best - she might be in trouble
Carrie Ann Inaba - “I loved that you two danced for the judges.” - Score 9
Len Goodman -“That has cheered me up” Score 10
Bruno Tonioli -“…Super ticket for the final…’ Score 10
29 out of 30

Second Dance - The Samba

My Take - What was not to love with those costumes? They are fun to watch!
Carrie Ann Inaba - ” I didn’t care for it! It was slightly just a bit awkward.” - Score 8
Len Goodman -“This had great speed and energy.” - Score 9
Bruno Tonioli -” You were spinning right times into a drop.” - Score 9
Total 55 out of 60

Which Idol Star should go? ‘American Idol’ Latest Update

By Craig Schrolucke | Sunday, May 4, 2008, 11:06 AM

After Ryan’s taunting of one of the contestants and Paula’s gaffe last week wouldn’t it be fun if we could vote off the star/host/judges instead of the contestants?

Some people who have commented on this blog have suggested that Paula should go. The show’s producers are loving all the attention her recent gaffe has focused on the show. The AP is reporting CEO, Cecile Frot-Coutaz of FremantleMedia the show’s producers, isn’t interested in getting rid of Paula. Frot-coutaz said “why would we get rid of Paula?” “I love that everyone was talking about it. It was so unexpected. It was something that took up 2 seconds of airtime. You’d think there was no other news on television.” If Paula were to go, would you still watch the show? Or, what about Simon Cowell? Are his caustic comments the reason you tune into ‘American Idol?’

So here’s a twist on American Idol.. if you could vote off the stars who should go?
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Latest Idol reject relaunches album. American Idol Latest Update

By Craig Schrolucke | Friday, May 2, 2008, 07:16 AM

After Brooke White’s long and tearful goodbye, you would have thought her career was over forever; far from it.

According to a story published by the LATimes.com, the latest Idol reject is re-releasing her album “Songs from the Attic.”

White’s Web site says of the cd:

“Songs From the Attic” is Brooke’s debut album from 2006 and it’s sure to become an instant classic. This 11 song CD captures the essence of all that is pure and honest about songwriting which is a direct reflection of who Brooke White is as a person. Bonus tracks include cover versions on “Dream On” by Aerosmith and “Yellow” by Coldplay. brookewhite.com

The Times is reporting that her former manager, Tim Simms, “had shopped Brooke to practically every label in town and no bites,” Simm goes on to say, “No one thought you could shop the good girl.” You can listen to the “good girl” for yourself at White’s Web site where many of the songs are previewed or check it out on itunes.

Will Brooke make it in the music industry or is she just too nice?