The short version of the story is...I met Danny Gokey in Milwaukee this Saturday!

Let’s be honest….we all know the kind of American Idol fan I am. We also know that I do not hesitate to become a die-hard fan of contestants that I like. I read way too many USA Today and Idol Stalker.com blog entries, and I spend a decent amount of time watching interviews on EW.com and americanidol.com.

Anyone who read my blog this year knows that I was a pretty big (ok maybe huge) fan of Danny Gokey:

• Danny Gokey – Hero - Shocker alert -- he's my favorite....LOVE HIM!!!!! He reminds me of Daughtry but I am not sure why. (I know you guys are laughing at me, but I don't care). He ROCKS!!!!!!
• Danny Gokey - P.Y.T. - I love him. I can't even write. A-MA-ZING
• Danny - Jesus, Take the Wheel - Love the song. Love him. Hate the white jacket.
• Danny - Get Ready - why didn't he listen to Smokey's advice? That would have made the song even more awesome.
• Danny - What Hurts the Most - LOVED IT ALL! I almost cried. (Yes, I am a sap.)
• Danny - Stand by Me - I like that it's a little unique, or I guess "Danny style". Of all the 80's songs, I must say I was disappointed in his song selection. But he has skills for sure. COOL
• Danny - Endless Love - Fabulous selection. Wow. I loved it.
• Danny – September - Love the selection. He rocked it. Go Gokey! Woo hoo!
• Danny - Come Rain or Come Shine - Excellent selection. Tight wardrobe. Can't wait to download it! DUDE, GAME ON!!!!!
• Duet - Kris and Danny – Renegade - I loved it. The judges can stick it.
• Danny - Dream On - Outside his box, he rocked it out.
• JUDGE'S CHOICE - Danny - Dance, Little Sister - Paula, this was interesting. Not a stellar selection on your part. I liked it. He rocked it out again.
• CONTESTANT'S CHOICE - Danny - You Are So Beautiful - Loved it. Love him. Love the solid vocal. Go Gokey!

So here is how this happened:

Let’s begin with some background…..My cousin, Mike Schnieders, is the Director of Game-Event Presentation for the Milwaukee Bucks NBA franchise. What does that mean, you ask? Mike is responsible for everything that goes on in the Bradley Center except for the basketball that is played on the court.

Basically, it is a LOT of stuff – the lights, the DJ, the introductions, the video screens, the mascot, the dance team, the fan giveaways, the guys that can shoot prizes into the stands, the contests, the national anthem, the halftime entertainment…..I’ll stop right there…you get the picture.

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Herein lies the opportunity…Mike was tasked with delivering a super-spectacular Bucks home opener. So who else should you call besides Milwaukee’s own hometown American Idol, Danny Gokey!

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Rumors of this idea were first floated on the early October wedding weekend of Dan and Jen O’Brien (cousin wedding 3 of 4 in 2009). I immediately said, “Heck, yeah, I am there!” Mike’s lovely wife, Lisette (pictured with me and Danny above), said that she would need a date for the event, and I graciously (Ha! I about tackled them) said, “Let me know.”

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Fast forward to a short shopping trip of mine in Aurora, Illinois, when I received this text: “Gokey is almost a done deal. Do you want to road trip to Milwaukee? Let me know.” (It was a fabulous day.) I started to get pretty fired up, but I didn’t want to get too pumped JUST in case.

Now it’s the fabulous wedding weekend of Chris and Jill Stephens and I was reading wedding cards in a Nashville Hallmark store. (Note that this store was near the Vanderbilt campus which according to Danny is close to the RCA Nashville recording studio.) I get yet another text: “Gokey is a go!” Milwaukee, you’ll have a visitor.

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Fast forward again to this past Saturday morning. I arrive in Milwaukee and jump into Mike and Lisette’s car at the airport. This is when Danny Gokey weekend for Jenny begins, but it has already begun for Mike and Lisette. Parts of the rest of this story are recounted by me on behalf of Mike and Lisette.

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Mike was asked on Friday to leave the Game Watch for the Bucks and ride in the limo to the airport to pick up Danny. Danny sans entourage jumped into the limo and ran through the schedule with Mike for the events of Saturday, which included hosting a silent auction for Danny’s foundation in addition to the singing performances. Danny talked a lot about the foundation (Sophia’s Heart - http://www.sophiasheart.org/ ) and how happy he was to give back to the city of Milwaukee.

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Once at the hotel, Lisette was there to pick up Mike (aka meet Danny) ;) . Lisette (who is also a super fan of Danny) said he was super nice and while she was nervous to talk to him at first, he was very normal and down to earth once she met him. Lisette also learned that Danny’s wife’s sister’s name is Lisette. She was able to take a quick photo with Danny and also able to mention that not only were they excited to see him perform at the game, but Mike and Lisette had a cousin that was coming in from Indianapolis just to see him perform. (Were they trying to call me out that I am not a Bucks fan? HAHA)

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After hearing all this on Saturday morning, I was really pumped about the opportunity to meet Danny after the game, but also hoping I was able to keep it together and not be too star struck.

Later that evening, Lisette and I were on our way to the game. To get ready, we of course listened to the Danny Gokey songs on my iPod.

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Once in the arena, we joined my Uncle Jim and Aunt Joanie (Mike’s parents) in our seats and commenced “Find Danny in the arena”. While we didn’t spot him prior to the National Anthem, we were able to track him down in the guest suite during the game. (and we didn’t even have binoculars….darnit)

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Danny sang the National Anthem, and of course, it was AWESOME!!! Then the game began. During the game, as I mentioned, there was a silent auction of a few items to raise money for Sophia’s Heart. We went to visit during the first half, and I deliberated whether I should bid on any of the items (for example, Danny’s red glasses from his Idol PYT performance which he autographed (which I totally could have put my own prescription in), one of Danny’s iPods with music (which I totally bid on because it was autographed, a new version of iPod than mine, and it had songs on it), and some other items that were autographed and some sports paraphernalia). I did finally come to an item and a bid. End result of the auction – I didn’t win (by $400) but they were able to raise around $4,000 for the foundation. I like to think I helped increase the donation because people had to outbid me.

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Danny also performed at halftime. While all those in the stands who dressed up for Halloween surrounded his lighted stage in a circle, Danny sang “Life Is A Highway” and “My Wish”. Both performances were definitely AWESOME, and very relevant to the fact that he is now an RCA Nashville artist….single released in December 2009.

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After this stellar halftime show, the Bucks came out and went to work on the Pistons in the third quarter. They apparently needed to hear more Danny than they did during the anthem in order to get it done. The final buzzer sounded and the Bucks were victorious over the evil and awful Detroit Pistons.

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While most people filed out of the arena, it was just beginning for me. Now, we wait for the word from Mike, and I am going to meet DANNY GOKEY! Lisette got the call from one of Mike’s co-workers and we were in the meet-and-greet line. My uncle was the end of the line. So Lisette walked up first and was re-introduced to Danny. He remembered her name and hugged her. Then Mike introduced me (um, yeah, I was freaking out, but I kept it together). Waiting to shake his hand, he hugged me. (I KNOW. Freaking out!) Then Lisette mentioned that I was the cousin they told him about that came from Indianapolis to see him. He said, “Thank you so much!” and I have no idea what I said (but I did respond). We had our picture taken together, then my aunt and uncle met him and were photographed, and then Mike was on the move.

It was time to send Danny back to the limo and off to pick up his car at the hotel where he stayed Friday so he could head home to his family’s house. So what did we do? Whatever Mike told us to, which was to follow him into the dressing room. At that point, I was completely mute (I think….I can’t totally remember), but I did take a picture of Mike, Lisette, Danny, Aunt Joanie and Uncle Jim.

While I took this, Danny’s brother stood next to me. Note – Danny’s brother looks and sounds just like him, except Danny’s brother did not have glasses, he did have gray hair, and he was not as “fit” as Danny. Nonetheless, it was crazy how much they looked alike.

After this, Mike gave Danny his personalized Bucks jersey and Danny was off.

A little commentary --- So one would think that people that have been on TV would have a “check out how cool I am” aura about them. Even if the aura was small, it would still be there. I can attest (and I am sure Mike would back me up) that Danny does not have that “check out how cool I am” thing. He appears to be a down to earth, Midwest guy who is extremely talented, and he is utilizing his talent to help people.

After rehashing the game events, the game, and this past season of American Idol with Mike and Lisette, I was back to the airport bound for my next destination. Ever since then, I think to myself (about 50 times a day)…..”Holy cow, I met Danny and he hugged me.”

In closing, thank you SO MUCH to Mike and Lisette (and their dog Baxter and their baby-on-the-way) for hosting me this weekend. It was a quick trip to Milwaukee, but I am sure I will be back (even if Danny isn’t in town). If anyone is in the area and catches a Bucks game, be sure to give a shout out to the man to the right of the game announcer, because that’s my cousin, Mike.

Mike – it was amazing to see you "in action" in the arena. You do an amazing job for the Bucks!

NYC Trip

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Nashville Trip

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Final Performances - Idol favorite, Simon F's Choice, and the Idol single

Alas, we now know the point of Kara....to write the "single". And it appears that the lapel mics aren't working tonight since they all have microphones in their hands.

I think everyone knows where I stand on this finale before it starts, but here I go....

Adam - Mad World
Oh the staircase...what drama...solid vocal, but he is too drama with the camera glances...it's like Constantine all over again. Not surprised he picked a ballad, since this was one of the more mainstream songs he did this season.

Oh geesh, Kara, really? (I think the crowd just screamed because they showed Danny and the other contestants in the audience) I loved Simon's theatrical comment.

Kris - Ain't No Sunshine
Excellent selection! Loved it then, loved it now! Bring it, dude. He's so freaking cool! (I might have been applauding.)

Adam - Change is Gonna Come
He's a little more tame this week with his look. I wonder if it's strategy. Now that the screaming has started, I am not sure if he is singing or yelling.

Sing your face off....love it, Randy. I really think Kara might pee her pants or drool at any point. Really, Paula, the best? Ok, I have to admit, Ryan saying "Simon's wearing buttons" was REALLY funny.

Kris - What's Going On
Are you kidding me? DUDE! That was COOL!

Who forgot to tell Randy that his look is too busy tonight? I will not comment on the judges' comments.

Adam - No Boundaries
Ah, yes, the summer anthem....hee hee...this song is awful for anyone. It's cheese factor is one of the worst.
He did a solid job with what he had to work with.

Kris - No Boundaries
This song is SO CHEESY! It is a tiny bit better suited for Kris. I feel like Archuleta should be singing this maybe....or maybe Scott from this season.
Did anyone notice Kara diss her own song? And you can tell Randy and Simon hate it. I feel like they are giving Kris a consolation speech.

Now, it's time to get my vote on.

(Update after broadcasting, I am blogging at 12:40am amidst my speed dial voting. It took me about 3 hours to start to be able to get through, and now that I can, I just keep calling.....I may have reached 100.)

Top 3 - Bring It On

It's judge's ego night! Let's see how they did.

JUDGE'S CHOICE
Danny - Dance, Little Sister
Paula, this was interesting. Not a stellar selection on your part.
I liked it. He rocked it out again.
I enjoyed Paula telling Kara to shove it with her dance comment. So the judges liked the vocal, and it's a singing show, so nice work! It's also nice to see Kara brought her shoulder pads with her this evening.

Kris - Apologize
Stellar selection for him! He's bringing his "A" game tonight. I loved it.
Kara, you are DONE. I was trying to give you the benefit of the doubt, but no. (Uh oh, I am cursing at her again.) Right on, Simon! Ok, judges, so how was his vocal?

Adam - One
Ok, he got a great selection. I actually think it would have been interesting to see all three of them sing this song. Vocal was solid.
Well, they have all proclaimed him the winner in media and on this show. Kara is really annoying. And Adam's shirt looks like a cloud. I'm just not a fan. (insert your gasps of shock here)

CONTESTANT'S CHOICE
Danny - You Are So Beautiful
Loved it. Love him. Love the solid vocal. Go Gokey!

Kris - Heartless
Wow! That was COOL!
(Kara, are we trying to keep our contract or something?)

Adam - Crying
He didn't really show originality in his own selection like the other two did. This is what we have heard from him all season. Captain Dramatic sings rock.

And now, with my irritation with the judges this season, I'll rock the vote.

(I have already cast 25 votes at the time of this posting.)

Finals, here we come!

Top 4 - Rock Week

Ok, I'll apologize for the late blog. I was not a big fan of last week's shows, and my irritation with the judges has started to carry over to my blogging attitude.

As always, I still have my notes, so here's my take on last week.

01 - Adam - Whole Lotta Love
What's up with a long guitar solo on a singing show. This is his genre for sure. It wasn't awful.

(What is Kara wearing?)

02 - Allison - Cry Baby
It was good, not spectacular. She was yelling a little bit.

Duet - Kris and Danny - Renegade
I loved it. The judges can stick it.

03 - Kris - Come Together
It was good, but this isn't the type of record he'll make.

(The judges are totally overcompensating for Adam's bottom 2 from last week.)

04 - Danny - Dream On
Outside his box, he rocked it out.

(Kara has a stick up her butt.)

Duet - Allison and Adam - Slow Ride
The judges are probably giddy with glee. I am not going to talk about this performance because I want to deck Kara. (I've been yelling at her.) -- In retrospect, it was the best song of the night.

I was, needless to say, a little fussy about rock week. I just didn't feel it.

Top 5 - The Standards (aka Rat Pack Night)

Needless to say, Grandma Betty is very fired up for tonight's category. This week, her comments won't start with "Well, you know, I don't know the songs very well, but they sounded..."

Everyone is looking sharp tonight....except for Paula who apparently crinkled some fabric and stuck it on the front of her outfit, and Simon busted out another dark gray shirt.

Jamie Foxx....yay! This will be entertaining for sure.

01 - Kris - The Way You Look Tonight
Seriously, this kid could win the whole thing. Excellent selection, he looks sharp. AMAZING yet again. LOVED it.

02 - Allison - Someone to Watch Over Me
She definitely shows her age when Ryan "interviews" her. It was a little annoying to me. For sure she belongs in the competition at this point, because she was the most talented girl, but the guys knock her out. This to me was not her best night. I don't see why the judges fall all over her....the finals, Kara?

03 - Matt - My Funny Valentine
This was not my favorite performance of his, but I thought he nailed it. I am a big fan. I also spit (raspberries) at the TV at Randy and Kara. I didn't have the distance to make it all the way to them in LA though. ;)

04 - Danny - Come Rain or Come Shine
Excellent selection. Tight wardrobe. Can't wait to download it! DUDE, GAME ON!!!!!

05 - Adam - Feelin' Good
He has the highest pitch of everyone left. He deserves to be in the top 5, I'll give him that. I do find it easier to deal with him when I don't watch and just listen. Thank you, Randy, for commenting on the drama factor. Seriously, Paula, a Phelps reference? Aside from the rep that Phelps has now, Adam is not in the same league. (Why am I even acknowledging Paula?)

So here's my ranking (based on gut and my DWTS scoring)
1 - Danny (best wardrobe, vocal, and song selection)
2 - Kris
3 - Adam
4 - Matt
5 - Allison

I know that I have been a crazy Matt fan this season, but this week, I am ok if he or Allison go home.

Grandma liked them all. She does think that Allison is too young to win.

Top 7 - It's Disco Night!

Let me start off with saying I was a HUGE fan of the judges save last week. Being the crazy fan that I am, I totally was sucked into the chanting of the audience and fellow contestants. Well played, judges.

01 - Lil - I'm Every Woman
Lil looks awesome tonight. Not sure I liked the mix of the song, but she did a great job kicking off the show. The judges are so critical of her, that I think it's her time to go. She'll be able to pursue things once she doesn't get kicked on a weekly basis by Simon.

02 - Kris - She Works Hard for the Money
LOVE it! SO COOL! Love him! He really could win it!

03 - Danny - September
Love the selection. He rocked it. Go Gokey! Woo hoo!

04 - Allison - Hot Stuff
She's got a lot going on with her outfit. Rocking out the disco, but sometimes I thought it was odd. The timing was off during the slow part at the beginning.

05 - Adam - If I Can't Have You
They always turn all the lights off except the spot when he sings....Oh the drama! He lost me when he pulled out that screechy crap. As always, it was interesting.

06 - Matt - Stayin Alive
This is why he was saved. I loved it. Sweet!

07 - Anoop - Dim All the Lights
Dude, I was not feeling that at all, and I really like Anoop. He was the style winner for the evening though by a mile. (and not just because he busted out pink)

I have again used a DWTS scoring format, but without double weighting any of the categories (wow, I just sounded like an accountant), it all shakes out pretty close.
34 - Kris, Danny, Matt
31 - Lil, Allison, Adam
29 - Anoop

Style - Anoop/Lil
Song selection - Danny/Matt
Vocals - Kris/Danny/Adam
Performance - Kris

My votes for going home --- Lil and Anoop

P.S. Indy concert is September 5th.....woo hoo!

Top 7 - Songs from the Movies

Here's the question of the day - if they are so worried about going over, why must they babble away the first 8 minutes of the show? Call me crazy.

01 - Allison - I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing
Excellent selection. Very Aerosmith outfit. Solid vocal. Not sure about some of the change-ups she put in there. Overall, it worked.
(Wow, Simon dogged Lil before she's even been on stage)

02 - Anoop - Everything I Do, I Do It for You
I am digging this version. You go, Anoop! (not sure about your jacket selection) Solid, dude.

03 - Adam - Born to Be Wild
I don't hate it. At least the style was consistent throughout. He's still too much drama for me.
(Paula makes no sense AT ALL.)

04 - Matt - Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman
The orchestra in the background didn't get it done for me. It was theatrical and the piano was more of a soul vibe. Love him, but didn't love the performance tonight. Still a big fan.
(um this is a ROCK song? really? see how defensive I get!)

05 - Danny - Endless Love
Fabulous selection. Wow. I loved it.

06 - Kris - Falling Slowly
I haven't heard the song, and I need to see the movie....ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!

07 - Lil - The Rose
She has an amazing voice. The beginning was too busy for me, so it made the second half not as cool.
(Simon is just mean to her, not critical, he's mean.)

My votes:
Kris, Danny, Anoop!

don't forget to sign your comments.....I can't be the only one sticking my neck out here ;)

Top 8 - The Year You Were Born

Historically, this has been a really fun category....add to that the "cute" factor of the baby pictures, and I am hooked. On top of it all, we've cut the show to 60 minutes, and I am a happy camper.

I must admit I did a little research regarding the songs they could potentially sing tonight, and not everyone met my expectations based on what they could have done. (more on that later)

01 - Danny - Stand By Me
I like that it's a little unique, or I guess "Danny style". Of all the 80's songs, I must say I was disappointed in his song selection. But he has skills for sure.
COOL

02 - Kris - All She Wants To Do Is Dance
This dude is bringing it. I dug it. I understand the judges, but I thought it was original. I am not sure that the crowd performances are as cool on TV as they may be in the theater.
FUN

03 - Lil - What's Love Got to Do With It
I love the song selection. She has her game face on tonight, until the judges smacked it right off her face. The judges are totally harsh with her, and to be honest, I am confused about what they want her to do with her song selection. Who is the Mary J Blige of the mid 80's? If I were guessing, I would have thrown Tina Turner into that ring.
SOLID

04 - Anoop - True Colors
If you can take a song sung by an artist of the opposite sex and make it work, you'll always get props from me. Love his selection as well. The mix was cool. He's got tight vocals tonight. Nice work, Anoop!
SWEET

05 - Scott - The Search Is Over
I liked it, I didn't love it. I thought it was cool to see him bust out the electric guitar. His selection was smart in my opinion.
NICE

06 - Allison - I Can't Make You Love Me
Her selection was way too safe. I'm bored. I wanted her to sing a solid 90's guy rock song. It would have been so cool. Bonnie Raitt.....really? Paula is stupid. She did NOT make it her own or young. But the judges want her so badly to stay in....not sure why.
SAFE

07 - Matt - Part-Time Lover
This makes me want Stevie Wonder week. I love him. This was AWESOME and cool. (Short comments for Matt because I was too busy staring at the screen and pretending to be Paula.)
AMAZING

08 - Adam - Mad World
I have taken a new approach to trying to understand the phenomenon that is Adam Lambert for American Idol. I don't watch him sing, I just listen. He sounded last night like Kenny Loggins when I wasn't watching. I was not at all sure what song he was singing, and the weird lighting was VERY distracting and odd. I don't see the standing O, but whatever.....for me, he's still too theatrical. I would love to see him in a Broadway show, but I am not buying the album.
DRAMATIC

To me, Danny, Matt, and Kris are in the top tier. Anoop and Adam belong in the game. The bottom three are Scott, Lil, and Allison.

As always....it's just my opinion......

Top 9 - Popular Digital Music Downloads

Really? Is this a category or a free-for-all?

01 - Anoop - Caught Up
Love the song. He's stylish this evening. I liked the performance.

02 - Megan Joy - Turn Your Lights Down Low
Does she always wear turquoise? Why does she have those awkward "dance" moves? This song is more her style, but she never looks like she is comfortable on stage. I am so done with her.

03 - Danny - What Hurts the Most
LOVED IT ALL! I almost cried. (Yes, I am a sap.)

04 - Allison - Don't Speak
Excellent song selection. She is rocking her Gwen Stefani shout-out wardrobe. The pace was a little slow. Her performance was off but she can sing for sure.

05 - Scott - Just the Way You Are
What did they do to his hair? His best performance since Mandolin Rain. Excellent song selection. Yay, Scott! Loved the piano solo.

06 - Matt - You Found Me
This dude is talented. I loved it. I hate Paula and I yelled "Shut UP!" to the judges.

07 - Lil - I Surrender
Way better song selection....horrid dress....solid vocal.

08 - Adam - Play That Funky Music
How many shirts is he wearing? His hair looks ridiculous. Is this song dance, pop, or screech rock? He's a performer, and that's where it ends for me. I don't see it...yell at me if you will....I just don't see it. (When I talked to Grandma at the commercial, she said she really liked it.)

09 - Kris - Ain't No Sunshine
WOW! That was OUTSTANDING!!!!!

My favorites of the evening were Kris and Danny.

Here's how my DWTS scoring shook out:

Danny 38 (Danny won out in the wardrobe category)
Kris 37
Matt 36
Scott 34
Anoop 33
Allison 33
Lil 32
Adam 30
Megan 21

Top 10 - Motown

Let me start off by saying this week's category has a huge potential to be awesome.

1 - Matt - Let's Get It On
love him...very cool

2 - Kris - How Sweet It Is
don't like the scruffy beard look on him...but it rocked....good call, Randy, he is in the zone

3 - Scott - You Can't Hurry Love
props for the pink pants....it was good, fun, but not fabulous

4 - Megan - For Once In My Life
she's awkward to watch and I feel like she tries too hard...when she sings her style, she's good, but tonight she wasn't

5 - Anoop - Ooh Baby Baby
serious Anoop has his game face on....it was a little slow though

6 - Michael - Ain't Too Proud to Beg
dug it, but the ending was weird

7 - Lil - Heat Wave
thank you, Smokey, for the singing the phone book comment this season....i always wait for that
this is her zone! awesome look this week.

8 - Adam - Tracks of My Tears
he looks more strange without make-up....he's straight theater for me...i don't know yet what i think about him....

9 - Danny - Get Ready
why didn't he listen to Smokey's advice? that would have made the song even more awesome.

10 - Allison - Papa Was a Rolling Stone
this to me was her best....she nailed it.

I also did a little bit of Dancing With the Stars scoring this week for our contestants. 1-10 scale in the categories of wardrobe, song selection, performance, and vocals.

Here's how the scoring shook out:
Megan 25
Scott 27
Michael 30
Adam 31
Anoop 32
Matt 33
Kris 35
Danny 35
Allison 36
Lil 37

Top 11 - Grand Ole Opry

This week, I'll be short and sweet (or not so sweet).

01 - Michael - Ain't Goin' Down Til the Sun Comes Up
That was a lot of lyric. He did well. It was fun.

02 - Allison - Blame It On Your Heart
The pacing back and forth was distracting. The girl can sing for sure.

03 - Kris - To Make You Feel My Love
I loved it! SO cool!

04 - Lil - Independence Day
Not what I would have picked for her. She can sing, but this performance was awkward.

05 - Adam - Ring of Fire
What is he wearing? Did anyone else think it was creepy?

06 - Scott - Wild Angels
Not sure about his selection this week, and the second half of the song was better.

07 - Alexis - Jolene
Spot on selection. Great vocal.

08 - Danny - Jesus, Take the Wheel
Love the song. Love him. Hate the white jacket.

09 - Anoop - You Were Always On My Mind
Dude, he brought it this week. Anoooooooooooooooooooooop!

10 - Megan - I Go Walking After Midnight
Her "dancing" is weird. I don't know about her.

11 - Matt - So Small
Love him too. Loved it!!!

What do you think?

Top 13 - Michael Jackson

I must admit that I am pretty pumped at the prospect of this theme night.

01 - Lil Rounds - The Way You Make Me Feel
So she's clearly not nervous. Wow! Seriously, she's amazing. Top notch selection, vocal, and performance. I thought she looked great too.

02 - Scott MacIntyre - Keep The Faith
I don't know the MJ version, but he could record this song. It's definitely great to hear him with the piano. I loved it. Simon and Randy made me angry...and it's so early in the show.

03 - Danny Gokey - P.Y.T.
I love him. I can't even write. A-MA-ZING

04 - Michael Sarver - You Are Not Alone
I love this song, and I like Michael. Solid vocal, and he showed who he is. (this is going to be tough this season)

Does anyone think Paula looks weird? Tonight for the first time this season I ask, why is she there and what is she trying to say. That being said, I have on occasion pulled a Paula like stunt and stood up to dance while contestants are singing. (After all this time, I thought I'd just own up to it.)

05 - Jasmine Murray - I'll Be There
Is she yelling at me or did I forget to turn my TV down from when Danny was singing? The stylist...thank goodness for the stylist. Safe song, strong vocal. I am just not that fired up about her, and I didn't think she was Top 12 worthy.

06 - Kris Allen - Remember The Time
Not sure about his wardrobe selection. It was rough in places, but I like this kid. It was a big stage, and he might have overdone it a little, but I like the guitar vibe.

07 - Allison Iraheta - Give In To Me
Um, this is MJ She was kind of shouting at me. It was unique, but my verdict is still out on her. She's a performer. Her look does fit well with her personal style.

08 - Anoop Desai - Beat It
(Loved the Thriller moves going to the break.) So Anoop got a style makeover. Love the selection. Love that he's still here. Rough vocal in spots, but I thought it was a super fun performance.

09 -Jorge Nunez - Never Can Say Goodbye
With not knowing the song, his performance was spot on to show his vocal range. It was a little dull, but this guy is different and I like what he brings to the competition. (And let's be honest, I am already thinking about the tour.)

10 - Megan Joy Corkery - Rockin' Robin
Ok, her dress is bad, it doesn't nothing for her as Grandma would say. But she is very pretty. Bad song selection and her dancing was awkward and awful. Her voice is unique, but she lost me on this performance. She did NOT just make a bird noise.

11 - Adam Lambert - Black Or White
He has quite a bit of makeup on...wow. He's still a little theatrical for me. I need him to sing a song when he doesn't yell before my verdict is ready. It was fun, but it wasn't awesome for me.

12 - Matt Giraud - Human Nature
This cat is awesome! His selection was perfect. The Midwest boys are rocking it! He's just cool.

13 (or 36 in phone number land) - Alexis Grace - Dirty Diana
Her little girl is so stinking cute! "Seacrest Out.." - priceless! She's playing to win. Selection, style, vocal - awesome.

So check it, here's how I group them this season:
Top tier - Lil, Danny, Matt
Next best - Adam, Allison, Alexis, Scott and Kris
On the verge - Michael, Anoop and Jorge
Not quite there - Jasmine and Megan

This "surprise twist" is a little much. Does this mean that the bottom two will sing off and the judges will make the final decision? That's what DWTS is doing this season......ever the drama dude, Simon.

Season 8 - Week 3 - 12 more

I realized how fabulous it is to watch this show with DVR last night. However, I was unable to text with my aunt and talk to Grandma Betty throughout the show, so I am sure I will go back to the real time next week.

I must say that I like this new format. Let's not listen to people sing for two nights and then cut 4, let's actually vote for the people we want.

I am on the record now that if the judges even up this mix to be 6 guys and 6 girls, they will have annoyed me.

On to this week.....

1 - Von Smith - You're All I Need to Get By
He sounded good. He's a little Broadway, but he picked the right song. It's rough to perform first and stay remembered though, so he's going to have a tough time

2 - Taylor Vaifanua - If I Ain't Got You
Cute dress. Excellent selection. She did a nice job. (Paula, we didn't see her perform this before, so step off.)

3 - Alex Wagner-Trugman - I Guess That's Why They Call It the Blues
He looks crazy nervous, and he sounds better when he doesn't try too hard. It's the end of his road though. (you know you want to sing "End of the Road" right now)

4 - Arianna Afsar - The Winner Takes It All
Don't do weird things to this song. She can sing, but it was not done in a good way to showcase her talent. Her dress was also cute.

5 - Ju'Not Joyner - Hey There Delilah
This is the way for me to learn lyrics :) Making this song R&B worked for me. He should have a shot in the wild card.

6 - Kristen McNamara - Give Me One Reason
I am going to start by saying I don't like this girl. She bugs me. She was also already on Nashville Star. She is drama. The judges are going to love her, but she is too blah for me. (ok, I know, but this is my opinion here…sorry if anyone is her best friend or biggest fan)

7 – Nathaniel Marshall – I Would Do Anything for Love
Let’s face it, the jacket is bad. I am not going to address the headband, although I really wanted one of the judges to wear it. He is distracting to watch, but he is not a bad singer. He would be good for musical theater.

8 – Felicia Barton – No One
Wow. She’s good. There were a couple of rough parts but this is a tough selection. I like her and her kid is super cute.

9 – Scott MacIntyre – Mandolin Rain
His voice is great, and this selection was perfect for him. Does anyone else notice how much he and his brother look alike?

10 – Kendall Beard – This One’s for the Girls
So, she is the country artist this year. Again, the dress is super cute. These girls are very stylish tonight, and it almost makes me forget those horrible jean shorts from last week. She did well but the end was just alright.

11 – Jorge Nunez – Don’t Let the Sun Go Down On Me
Grandma Betty thought he was really good. When he started to sing, my first thought was wow, he is really good. I think I like him too because he brings something different to the mix. When he got so excited he was talking in Spanish, it was very genuine, as opposed to Tatiana’s plea in Spanish which was irritating.

12 – Lil Rounds – Be Without You
I love her. She rocks. She is my favorite girl of the season, and probably in my top 3 of early picks.

This group overall I felt was the most solid of the 3.

As far as wild card, here’s who I think should get to sing for their supper (or ugly silver stool on stage):
Week 1
Ricky Braddy
Anoop Desai

Week 2
Jesse Langseth
Megan Corkey
Matt Giraud

Week 3 (this includes people I think should be top 3 tonight too)
Lil Rounds
Scott MacIntyre
Jorge Nunez
Felicia Barton
Ju’Not Joyner

Have a great week, everyone! Let me know your thoughts.

Season 8 - Week 2 - The Next 12

As I watch the "west coast feed", I am actually thinking, "The idols are watching this too, since I am in LA." Then I realize that I really am a groupie at a level that might require therapy.

This week, we have a guest blogger. Thanks to Melissa Lidgard! She stepped up to the plate. Here are her thoughts:


1. Jasmine Murray:Love Song
She looked good, and I love that song, but I thought she was really "pitchy" and the range didn't really work for her. She's a pretty girl, but I don't think she has it.
P.S. It doesn't matter if you had a good time, you were not good. That is such a lame thing to say...every time someone stinks it up, they say they had a good time.
2. Matt Giraud: Viva La Vida
I thought he was good. It was a little bit uncomfortable, but for the most part, I thought he was OK. He has a great voice.
3. Jeanine Vailes: This Love
Not diggin the outfit at all. Song selection was awful I thought, and that performance was pretty bad.
4. Nick Mitchell: You're going to love me
Ok, not really sure what to think. He has a good voice, but I don't think he is going to make it.
5. Allison Iraheta: Alone
That interview was painful. Wow. But she totally redeemed herself on the song. I though she was pretty good. She did get a little screechy and that was annoying, but definitely the best so far.
6. Kris Allen: Man In The Mirror
I thought that was great. Kara is wrong in my opinion. It was a little rough in the beginning, but he definitely brought it in the end.
7. Megan Corkey: Put Your Records On
I really liked her look. She is different, and I like it. Paula needs a word limit.
8. Matt Breitzke: If You Could Only See
I pretty much agree with the judges. It was pretty boring. He has a good voice, and I like him, but I don't think he has it to go all the way.
9. Jesse Langseth: Betty Davie Eyes
I do think she looked great, but I have to agree with the judges, I did not think the song did her any justice. She may be a wild card candidate. Again, Paula...zip it.
10. Kai Kalama: What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted
This was very lounge singer to me. He has a great voice, but he was a little whiney.
11. Mishavonna Henson: Drops of Jupiter
Odd song choice for me. She is a beautiful girl though and has a good voice, but I am not diggin the performance.
12. Adam Lambert: Satisfaction
Definitely the best guy of the night. Whats up with the bling? Anyway, it was a little rough in places, but all around pretty good.

I have to say, this was not a great week for me. Top girl is either Allison or Megan, Top Guys: Kris & Adam

Have a great week! See ya next week!

Idol 2009 - Season 8 - Top 36 - Week 1

Welcome to our new subscribers, and welcome back to everyone from the past!

I must admit that I didn't watch much of the auditions and picked up around the Hollywood rounds. Of course, I have a few favorites, but I promise to give most of them a fair shot.

Quick note - Next week I will be traveling to LA on Tuesday night and I'll miss the west coast feed as well. So, I need a guest blogger.....you know who you are.....

Within the introductory segment, did anyone else notice that Paula still doesn't make sense?
Also, I don't have a strong opinion about Kara, but so far, not so annoying, and she can put together sentences. (Isn't it sad how low expectations are?)

And so we begin.....

01 - Jackie Tohn - A Little Less Conversation
What is she wearing? Horrid. A little too hyper for me. Vocals were nothing special. Isn't she the one that was rumored to be disqualified because of her professional music experience? Not sure, but she bugs.

02 - Ricky Braddy - A Song For You
Singing this early in a two hour show with 12 commercial breaks can be not good for your luck. His vocals were solid though.

03 - Alexis Grace - Never Loved A Man
Don't dig the song selection. It was just ok for me. She's so tiny.

Shout out to Doogie Howser and Ted Danson in the house!

After three contestants, I must say the exchange after the judge commentary with the family of the contestant, the hugging from fellow singers, hugging of family, the squeezing between the family and Ryan on the cheesy Coca-Cola couch....it's all too much....can anyone else say time filler?

04 - Brent Keith - Hicktown
After the awkward live TV moment, as soon as Brent started to sing, I knew he can't win this. He clearly is the country music guy and he showcased well. America won't pick him as the top guy. Safe song, yes, but the country was a fun twist.

05 - Stevie Wright You Belong With Me
Not stellar. What song is this? She sounded nervous and out of breath a lot.

06 - Anoop Desai - Angel of Mine
I like this kid. I am not 100% sure about his song selection, but I think he did represented his style well. He was polite to Simon even. (Ok, I know this isn't Polite Idol, but it was a nice change of pace.)

07 - Casey Carlson - Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic
Weird facial expressions. I feel like I am watching a Disney musical or a pageant. She's very pretty.

08 - Michael Sarver - I Don't Wanna Be
Dig the selection. I like his back story. His vocals were good. (I just stuck my tongue out at the judges.)

09 - Ann Marie Boskovich - Natural Woman
She's kinda boring. Her vocals were decent, but nothing special. (Let's reflect on the fact that Kelly Clarkson delivered that song.)

10 - Stephen Fowler - Rock With You
I like what he picked, but I felt like it was a little serious. He had a "nice" vocal.

11 - Tatiana Del Toro - I'm Saving All My Love for You
It's the commercial break and I am already irritated with this nightmare chick. Not only is she whiny, she reminds me of Katharine McPhee. (yuk) Of course she picks a Whitney song. I can't hear her sing ... what? huh? Ew, now I can. What is bugging me now is that she isn't absolutely dreadful compared with the other girls tonight. I didn't like the end...when she sings low, she drops words too. The judges made fun of her...that's funny. Her friends must have watched her and told her to chill out....or she was medicated.

12 - Danny Gokey - Hero
Shocker alert -- he's my favorite....LOVE HIM!!!!! He reminds me of Daughtry but I am not sure why. (I know you guys are laughing at me, but I don't care). He ROCKS!!!!!!

Not sure which girl to vote through so I guess I'll go with Alexis (pink hair)
Guy would be Danny for sure. Anoop, Ricky or Michael need the next highest vote.

Until next week.....
(too bad I couldn't get tickets and go to the taping......I even figured out how I could blog.....I could take a poster and write on it.)

Concert Extravaganza ... not in any order

Keith Urban - Lucas Oil Stadium

Kenny Chesney - Lucas Oil Stadium

Keith and Kenny - The Lucas Oil Stadium

David Cook - Conseco Fieldhouse

Carrie Underwood - Indiana State Fair

Daughtry - Indiana State Fair

University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish Marching Band - Notre Dame Stadium

LeAnn Rimes - Lucas Oil Stadium

David Archuleta - Conseco Fieldhouse

Idol Concert 2008

So, alas, it is time to write my synopsis of the tour concert, which I attended a little over five hours ago. While it is still fresh in my mind, I thought I would throw out my opinion.

Let me begin this blog by admitting that this was the fifth idol concert I have attended, and I guess all that does is give me a frame of reference for my next point.

I didn't like the format of tonight's show. No duets, only two group numbers, I mean this is why I go to the show......I'm left to comment on wardrobe and song selection yet again.

Here are my photos from the show....really grainy, but you get the point.

share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8KcsmzZs2ZL0

10 - Chikezie - He started off with "I Believe to My Soul". He sounds much better live (and with more practice) than he did on the show. Next up was "Caught Up", and his set wrapped with "So High". As far as wardrobe commentary, I do believe he was sporting a purple velvet jacket.

9 - Ramiele - Her choreography looked very boring and forced. That being said, she sang "I Want You Back", "Love Will Lead You Back", and "If I Never See Your Face Again". The last song really drove home why I was pleased when she was voted off the show (the title that is). With her 4 inch heels, I still swear the mic stand was taller than Ramiele. Purple sparkles...that's all I have for wardrobe comments.

8 - Michael Johns - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZrC_Y3cUtQ
He rocked it! It proved that he should have been in the top three this year if "we" were truly voting for our favorites. "We Will Rock You", "It's All Wrong, But It's All Right", and "Dream On" was sadly all we got to hear from Mr. Johns. He was really great.

7 - Kristy - A wise man said a couple of weeks ago, "Kristy Lee Cook needs to just go home now." I must concur with that statement. She looked very pretty this evening, but past that I was unimpressed. She sang "Squeezin' the Love Outta You", "God Bless the USA", and "Cowgirls". She could have made wiser choices on her selections (hint tour producers). She's a nice girl, but I can't believe Nashville gave her a record deal. Then again, Miss Pickler is making her second album.

6 - Carly - Thank GOODNESS! I go back to the fact that she was awesome on the show, and she was great in tonight's show. She looked great, and she sounded great. "Bring Me to Life", "Crazy On You", and "I Drove All Night" were her selections, and while I didn't love her selections, I thought she was very entertaining and fun to watch and hear live. I really think she and Michael should go on tour together. I might even go to a bar to watch them.

5 - Brooke - Brooke started her set by rising from the elevated floor playing "Let It Be". This was a great TV performance, and an even better live performance. Brooke sported her typical Bohemian flowy shirt and jeans, and she looked comfortable on stage. Her second song was a bit cheesy I thought "1, 2, 3, 4", but she rallied with her wrap up tune, "Yellow". Brooke played guitar for her last two songs, and it was nice to finally have some performances with live instruments.

Before intermission, the bottom 6 came out to sing "In the Name of Love" with scenes from Idol Gives Back on the screens behind them. And now the crowd waits with baited breath for Mr. Castro.

4 - Jason Castro - The screams from the crowd. The mumbling at the microphone. The red shoes. All in all, Castro's song selections were spot on for him, and he showed his own personal style in all three songs. He tried to engage the audience in a little conversation, but it fell short because you couldn't hear anything he was saying. Set was "Over the Rainbow", "Crazy", and "Daydream".

3 - Syesha - Bad gear, bad hair, yet excellent song selection from the top female vote getter of the season. Her songs were "Umbrella" (ella, ella, eh, eh, eh - sorry, I had to), "If I Ain't Got You", and "Listen". Her shoes were ultra-stylish, but her dress left something to be improved upon. One of the highlights of this segment of the show was a man that was clearly a huge Syesha fanatic standing and singing her songs with her from about 4 row below us.

2 - David Archuleta - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muiKcCEORp8

Ok, now it's game time. I'm on my feet, and I am not sitting til this show wraps. (This reminds me that there was an eight foot tall man in front of me. Out of control.) This kid is amazing. The TV didn't do him justice. Awesome. "Angels", "Apologize", "Stand By Me", and "When You Say You Love Me". He killed it, knocked it out of the park, and about twenty other cheesy cliches. It was at this point that I forgot who else even sang tonight. Thank goodness for my notes. If you couldn't tell, I LOVED IT!

1 - David Cook - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTVpC4yBZtM

Seriously, he was outstanding live. I really wish this would have been two hours of David and David. That would have been (wait for it) like listening to them sing the phone book. David came up from the floor singing "Hello". Stellar! Then after thanking the audience and sending a shout out to his relatives in the "house", he sang "Time Of My Life". He's mixed it up and made it more "his own" since the finale, and it rocked. After stopping to address a potential wardrobe situation (or a face plant on the stage), he sang "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing". While this wasn't a top choice for me from the season, I love Mr. Cook, so I loved the performance. He brought the house down with "My Hero" which he dedicated to his ailing brother. While we thought the show is over, it never is unless we've had a group number. David emerged again and performed "Billie Jean", which many people feel is when he started to lock in the votes this year. For me, he had me at "Hello". HA - it's 1:24 a.m. and I still got it! :)

Last but not least, we get to the sole group number of the night (I just won't even vent. Just understand my frustration, please.) which was "Don't Stop the Music". All parties were well represented, and then the music did, in fact, stop.

All in all, I liked the indoor venue this year as opposed to the fair, and the top two performers were AWESOME. The format needs to switch back to where we were last year.

Have a great week everyone. I'll try to post more video next week. Until then.

For American Idol I Am,

Jennifer M Schnieders

Random commentary

I rode public transportation to work today. It took longer than I would have liked, but I didn't have to drive.

I watched the NBA Finals last night.....until the national anthem was over. Pro basketball is painful.

I toyed with the idea of a "The Bachelorette" blog. I made some notes in the first two episodes, but they never made it to print....so now, what's the point?

That's all for today.....