Shane Avery
Senior Staff Writer
It all comes down to THIS.
The ending of the 13th season of American Idol has kicked off, and finalists Jena and Caleb were set to do battle tonight; and boy oh boy…..
Did they leave it all out on the stage or what!?
After a stellar intro from Ryan Seacrest, he welcomed us to the Idol finale stage which is now in the Nokia Theatre.
It’s been a crazy season, and it now comes down to just 6 performances, 3 from each of them.
It’s time to get the party started though, and round 1 was going to be song choices from creator of Idol, Simon Fuller!
1. Jena Irene – “Dog Days Are Over” by Florence & the Machine
This was a STELLAR song choice from Simon Fuller, and it should come as no surprise that Jena killed it. I have to make mention of her lower register though, because it is somewhat weaker than when she goes up. What saved it all for me however, was her energy on stage. She always gives it 100% and I’m thrilled that this was the kickoff to the show.
2. Caleb Johnson – “Dream On” by Aerosmith
Oh boy…..this was VERY big.
Considering Caleb’s vocal problems last week, but HOLY MOLY WOW.
Talk about a finale sized performance. I’m going to keep it real and say I was very nervous when he started in his lower register, because it was a little rough, but by mid song?
Hot damn, Caleb just SLAYED round 1!!! Sorry Jena, but this goes to Caleb.
It was time for round 2 though, which was the contestants favorite song of the season!
1. Jena Irene – “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
This was the performance yours truly hailed as one of the best of the entire series, and once again, I’m almost speechless. The emotion out of this young girl is absolutely ridiculous. I want this included on her debut album, win or lose. This was MAGICAL once again. Have to mention also the SHADE that Keith threw at “The Voice.” A contestant performed it the following week after Jena, and Keith’s words were definitely aimed at their competition.
2. Caleb Johnson – “Maybe I’m Amazed” by Paul McCartney
Not the song I expected him to choose, but that doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy it. This was another stellar performance from Caleb, but I’m going to agree with the judges and say that round 2 went to Jena.
Time for the final round, and it was the song that they would release as a single if they won!!
1. Jena Irene – “We Are One”
You know, a lot of the time, I don’t enjoy the singles written for the finalists, but Jena’s was VERY different. This fit her like a glove and it gave her the ability to really command the stage. I totally agree with the judges that it was perfect for Jena, and it’s very possible we could be hearing it on the radio very soon.
2. Caleb Johnson – “As Long As You Love Me”
Ugh, this is going to be a killer vote this week.
Caleb’s song was also tailored to his personality, and while I believe Jena’s was far superior, they were both stellar performances. I have to call out the judges on one thing though:
They never really critiqued Caleb’s song. They just kept saying how it was going to be tough for America and he did a good job. I’m guessing they weren’t fans of the song?
There you have it though.
My SECOND last Idol recap for the year folks.
Tomorrow night is the SEASON FINALE!!!
The show will be jam packed with special guest, and LOTS of surprises!!
One more night!
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