McPhee's Latest Humiliation

If we were Katharine McPhee, we might never return to Washington, D.C. She travelled to the nation's capital to perform in a fundraiser for Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, and has suffered humiliation not once, but twice.

First it was at the hands of radio station Hot 99.5, which allowed a green and rude intern to interview her. McPhee's handlers instructed the station there were to be "no personal questions," that McPhee was there to talk about the event -- why she was in D.C. So the intern promptly decided to ask only personal questions and never even asked why McPhee was in D.C.

What could be worse than this start? Well, bombing at the fundraiser. The Washinton Post reports that Hillary Clinton's attempt to bring young and hip women into her campaign with a "block party" in a parking lot in downtown Washington did not turn out quite as planned.

The event, named "Club 44," was meant to inspire women in the 18-to-24-year-old set to support Clinton's presidential campaign. "Wear your jeans!" said the invitation. Comedian Caroline Rhea was brought in to be the emcee. Katharine McPhee from "American Idol" was recruited to sing. A "carnival theme" was promised.

McPhee tried to get the crowd going with her song "Love Story." The Clinton partisans declined her invitation to clap and wave. "Let's hear it!" she said when she finished, to lackluster result. "In the back? I know you're out there!" she pressed, earning the sort of applause that follows a weak lounge act.

McPhee gave an awkward chuckle. "That was kind of lame, I have to say," she told the middle-aged hipsters.

We watched a video of the McPhee fiasco and clearly heard either the videographer or someone nearby saying during and after McPhee's performance of "Love Story," "She has to learn how to project" and "I didn't understand one word of that." It didn't help that the outdoor sound system sucked or that McPhee was apparently lip-syncing to backing tracks. (At one point she dropped the mike to her side as her voice continued).

According to the Washington Post, the crowd much preferred the act preceding McPhee: Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), who drew a huge ovation for lifting from FDR: "We have today a rendezvous with destiny!"

Only in Washington would a 4-foot-11-inch senator be treated as more of a rock star than an actual rock star. [Well, McPhee is hardly a rock star, more a pop TV sensation and wannabe star.]

Another performer at the event, R&B singer Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, who saw the 23-year-old McPhee bomb, shrewdly chose to greet those in the crowd with something more their speed. He opened with James Taylor's 1970 hit "Fire and Rain."

Watch video of the McPhee flop in D.C.:


McPhee appeared much happier in this photo run by TMZ.com, on her on her way to D.C. and captioned: Idolicious Katharine McPhee was spotted catching a flight at LAX -- in her sexy new geek-chic eyewear -- and carrying her Chihuahua in a bag. Miss McPhee had been seen a few weeks ago by a myopic TMZ spy at Optical Connection in Studio City, where she picked up the Bulgari face hardware. Kat and her dog caught a redeye to D.C., where she's playing at City Center Lot tonight.

BLAKE LEWIS VIDEO AND RADIO INTERVIEW

Here is a video of Blake Lewis in the People magazine offices sharing the secrets to his signature style in this video beat-box lesson.

Blake was also interviewed by Bob Rivers for Seattle radio station KZOK/102.5 FM. (Search Blake Lewis in search box on upper-right side of page. When you get the results, select "American Idol Runner Up Blake Lewis" under "Bob Rivers Show Audio" in center of page).

And the Verizon Beatbox Mixer is a fun site where you can try your own hand (and someone else's mouth) to mix your own beatbox sounds.

STUDDARD, YAMIN, MCPHEE DO GOOD DEEDS

WTVY-TV reports that Ruben Studdard took some time from his music camp to spend a few moments at the Wiregrass Boys and Girls Club. Studdard was once a Boys and Girls Club member himself.

He grew up within the organization and has since been inducted into the Boys and Girls Club Hall of Fame.

Studdard said he wanted to visit the club to encourage it's current members to continue to dream big. "I feel like it's good for the young people to see someone who's been where they've been. I've been in camp, I've been with that shirt on everyday, I've done this. So for them to see me where I am now, I think would be a great inspiration to them," said Studdar.

And according to Antimusic, Elliott Yamin is scheduled to welcome home Navy Troops from the U.S.S. Boxer (LHD4) on June 15th at their North Island Naval Base in San Diego, Calif. Yamin will have the opportunity to thank the Navy personnel for their service to this country after just returning from Iraq where they have served a double extended deployment.

Yamin will have lunch with the troops and will also participate in a meet and greet with military personnel and their families. He will also sign copies of his debut self-titled CD Elliott Yamin and photos.

"Visiting The North Island Naval base will be a unique and wonderful opportunity," stated Yamin. "I have so much admiration for men and women that service this country and the courage and strength that they possess. I look forward to being able to spend some time with them all and hear some of their stories while I visit the base."

And you watch videos of an interview and performance by Elliott on radio station 95.7 in Denver, Colo. by clicking here.

And a little bit of good press for Katharine McPhee, who, according to the Oroville Mercury-Register she will will be performing today at the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics Northern California Summer Games at California State University in Berkeley at Haas Pavilion on the Cal Berkeley campus.

Another Idol do-gooder was Season 6 semi-finalist Leslie Hunt, who, according to Chicago Suburban News performed at a "Salute Our Troops" event in Geneva.



PAULA ABDUL: SO OPEN TO THE IDEA OF ADOPTION

The Post Chronicle reports on a World Entertainment News Network story that "American Idol" judge Paula Abdul is considering adoption if she is unable to have her own children biologically.

The single 44-year-old wants to raise a child with a father figure, but if she fails to find a suitable man before it is physically impossible for her to get pregnant, she will adopt. "With medical technology these days, I could have children by myself using a donor. But I would rather be in a relationship so the child has a father to help instill core values," Abdul said.

"If it's meant for me to have children naturally, I absolutely will. I love kids, I really do. And kids love me," adding "I'm so open to the idea of adoption. But, again, I would like to be able to share the raising of the children."

Given all her "medical conditions" and "problems," perhaps it would be better for all of us for Abdul to adopt.

SIMON COWELL VOWS TO NEVER HAVE PLASTIC SURGERY

According to ContactMusic.com, British music mogul Simon Cowell has vowed to age gracefully and stay away from the cosmetic surgeon's knife.

The American Idol judge, 47, admits he works hard to keep in shape and is determined to do the best with what's he was given. He says, "I wouldn't have plastic surgery, it looks ridiculous on guys. I'd never dye my hair either. Everyone thinks I do, but I never have. I do 100 press-ups before I get in the bath in the morning, then at work after a meeting, I'll shut the door and do more."

Obviously, Cowell does believe in whitening his teeth, as the smoker's chops are always unnaturally glow-in-the-dark bright white. So there!

CARRIE UNDERWOOD'S MYSPACE PAGE HACKED

The San Francisco Chronicle reports that country singer Carrie Underwood's MySpace page has been hacked by a cell-phone ringtone promotion.

Fans of the "American Idol" winner have been receiving emails claiming to be from Underwood herself, urging them to check out "these amazing free ringtones."

The spam emails read, "Hey, this is Carrie Underwood. OK here's the deal, I need every single MySpace friend to stop what he/she's doing and go here right now and put your cell # in. You'll receive every ringtone from every myspace artist (including my favorites) ..."

Underwood's management have been made aware of the hack and the password was changed to stop the hackers.

VIDEOS OF IDOLS AT BREA SUMMERFEST

Admittedly, these videos are poor amateur quality, but it's a chance to catch a glance of some of your faves at an event you probably didn't attend, SummerFest 2007, which occurred last weekend in Brea, Calif. In attendance were Ace Young, Paris Bennett, Lisa Tucker, Chris Richardson, Sabrina Sloan, Kevin Covais, Kimberly Caldwell, Will Makar and Sherman Pore.

Watch video of "Harder to Breathe" soundcheck for Chris Richardson and Ace Young:


Watch video of Ace Young and Chris Richardson singing "Harder to Breathe":


Watch video of Ace Young singing "Should I Stay" at Summerfest 2007, featuring Chris Richardson, Lisa Tucker, Paris Bennett, Will Makar, Kimberly Caldwell, Kevin Covais and Sherman Pore going crazy and having fun:


Watch video of Chris Richardson beatboxing while Kevin Covais raps to "Gold Digger":


Watch video of "Through With You" soundcheck for Chris Richardson:


Watch video of Chris Richardson singing "Through With You":


Watch video of Ace Young singing "Scattered":


Watch video of Ace Young at Summerfest 2007:


Watch video of Ace Young singing "Vertigo":


Watch video of Ace Young with kids at Summerfest 2007:




Watch video of Ace Young singing:


Watch video of Kimberly Caldwell, Kevin Covais, Will Makar, Lisa Tucker, Paris Bennett:


Watch video of
Kevin Covais singing "Home".

Watch video of Lisa Tucker and Kevin Covais singing "Tell Him".

e-mail Idol Addict
© 2007

Getting to Know the Top 24: Part 4

PHIL STACEY
Age: 29
Hometown: Jacksonville, FL
Audition City: Memphis
Details: Grew up in Cincinnati; has a degree in vocal performance and is a singer in the Navy; married with two children.
Video link

20 Questions
Favorite male pop artists? Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Prince, Sting, Michael Jackson, Timberlake, Robbie Williams, James Taylor and, of course, Sir Paul McCartney
Favorite female pop artists? Vienna Teng, Sheryl Crow, Anastasia, Paula Abdul
Formal singing training? I do — I took lessons in college.
Other talents? I like to draw. I also play piano, guitar, bass, and drums. I also enjoy writing songs and producing independent projects.
If you don’t make it on American Idol, what will you do? I don’t even know — probably just curl up in a big ball and cry myself to sleep.
Personal goals? To be a good husband and father, and to get a PhD so people can call me Dr. Phil.
What album would your friends be surprised you own? Frank Sinatra ... "Live at the Sands" maybe ... I don’t know. I’m pretty musically diverse so I doubt they'd be surprised with anything.
Your American idol? My wife, Kendra — she’s hot.
Any rituals or things you do before you perform? I ask God to help me do my best. I also cough a lot every time I perform. It’s a nervous tick.
Most embarrassing moments? I sang at the U.T.K. Arena in front of 25,000 people and forgot the song on stage — lesson learned — won’t be repeated on A.I.
Proudest moment? Marrying the most amazing woman on the planet and then, of course, meeting my babies.
Your definition of an American Idol? Someone from the U.S. whom people idolize. I guess technically they could be from South America or Canada, too.
Favorite judge and why? Probably Randy because he’s the first one of them to believe in me — but they're all really cool. Paula is amazing.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? I had a car stolen from me at gunpoint when I was in high school. But it was very nice of the guy not to shoot me, so I'm not entirely bitter.
How has this changed your life? I'm probably more famous. I'm also exercising now to look a little better on TV.
Lucky charms? My friends bought me a trophy of a guy singing into a mic that looked just like me. The head popped off of it on the way to Hollywood week, but it still served me well.
Heroes? My parents and my in-laws—both excellent examples of genuine integrity.
Toughest obstacle? Making it through round one ... sad but true.
Was the audition process fair? There are moments that seemed jacked up to me, but overall, it is absolutely the best way to conduct a competition on this scale.
If you win, who will you thank first? Maybe the girl who almost passed on me the first audition day but ended up sending me through, but probably God. Yeah, I'll go with God.

RUDY CARDENAS
Age: 28
Hometown: North Hollywood, CA
Audition City: Seattle
Details: Was born in Venezuela, grew up in Denver; has a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Northern Colorado.
Video link

20 Questions
Favorite male pop artists? Freddie Mercury, Marc Anthony, Eric Benet, Maroon 5, Stevie Wonder, Rascall Flats, Steve Perry
Favorite female pop artists? Gloria Estefen, Mariah Carey, Sade, Ella Fitzgerald
Formal singing training? Yes, I've been lucky to have some great teachers.
Other talents? I play the sax and piano, Texas Hold 'Em, golf, basketball, tennis, football ... oh wait, did you mean good talents?
If you don’t make it on American Idol, what will you do? Continue my musical career with my group M-Pact.
Personal goals? To unconditionally love my wife, family, friends and myself. To put out real, inspired, smart music.
What album would your friends be surprised you own? Michael Bolton.
Your American idol? Chris Sligh, Blake Lewis and Michael Bolton.
Any rituals or things you do before you perform? I breathe and think about my wife.
Most embarrassing moments? You don't want to know.
Proudest moment? She said "yes."
Your definition of an American Idol? Anyone who is true to themselves.
Favorite judge and why? Randy because he is an incredible bass player.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? I'm afraid of heights and hate cauliflower.
How has this changed your life? Ask me again in May
Lucky charms? Yes.
Heroes? My parents.
Toughest obstacle? Stereotypes and racism.
Was the audition process fair? Hmmm ...
If you win, who will you thank first? My wife and family.

SABRINA SLOAN
Age: 27
Hometown: Studio City, CA
Audition City: Minneapolis
Details: Attended Northwestern University's music and theater program; has performed with the touring production of "Hairspray."
Video link

20 Questions
Favorite male pop artists? Sting! Stevie Wonder
Favorite female pop artists? Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston
Formal singing training? Yes – Private lessons and voice coaches training at Northwestern University
Other talents? Playing piano
If you don’t make it on American Idol, what will you do? Continue to perform!
Personal goals? To provide for my family, to be able to support those in need around me and around the world, and to make music I am proud of.
What album would your friends be surprised you own? NAS
Your American idol? Right now, Jennifer Freakin’ Hudson! And of course, my mom.
Any rituals or things you do before you perform? Pray.
Most embarrassing moments? Throwing up from food poisoning in NY subway station.
Proudest moment? Making top 24
Your definition of an American Idol? An artist who captures America’s hearts and souls and leaves them wanting more each week. The performer that makes each American wish THEY were on the stage singing too!
Favorite judge and why? While watching – Simon. Because he is devastatingly honest. While performing, hopefully still Simon.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? I'm pretty clumsy. I love the movie, "Yentl." (Weird, I know.)
How has this changed your life? I'm now living my dream and am confident that ANYthing is possible with faith and diligence.
Lucky charms? Nope. Well, apparently, my husband at these auditions!
Heroes? My husband for taking risks in life. My mom for living by faith.
Toughest obstacle? Moving to NY a week after 9/11 into a cockroach-infested closet apartment to pursue singing.
Was the audition process fair? Yes.
If you win, who will you thank first? My husband, Chip for his patience, support, encouragement and unchanging love.

SANJAYA MALAKAR
Age: 17
Hometown: Federal Way, WA
Audition City: Seattle
Details: Comes from a family of singers; spent four years in Hawaii performing with the Hawaii Children's Theater. His sister made it to Hollywood with him, but not to the Top 40.
Video link

20 Questions
Favorite male pop artists? Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson
Favorite female pop artists? Lauryn Hill, Susan Tedeschi
Formal singing training? Yes.
Other talents? Culinary Arts.
If you don’t make it on American Idol, what will you do? Use the experience to further my career.
Personal goals? To become witty.
What album would your friends be surprised you own? My friends don’t get surprised by my musical choices.
Your American idol? Stevie Wonder.
Any rituals or things you do before you perform? No.
Most embarrassing moments? I don’t get embarrassed.
Proudest moment? Making it to the top 24 on American Idol.
Your definition of an American Idol? A role model.
Favorite judge and why? Simon Cowell, 'cause he's brutally honest.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? I can independently raise both corners of my upper lip.
How has this changed your life? I'm scared that I'll never be able to walk into a supermarket without someone recognizing me.
Lucky charms? I don't eat sugary cereal.
Heroes? Joseph Paul Recchi Sr. [My Grandpa].
Toughest obstacle? Overcoming shyness.
Was the audition process fair? Yes, grueling but fair.
If you win, who will you thank first? My family.

STEPHANIE EDWARDS
Age: 19
Hometown: Savannah, GA
Audition City: Memphis
Details: Sang at the Apollo Theater when she appeared on "It’s Showtime at the Apollo"; has won every singing contest she has ever entered.
Video link

20 Questions
Favorite male pop artists? Justin Timberlake
Favorite female pop artists? Beyonce Knowles.
Formal singing training? Yes. I worked with a vocal coach for a month.
Other talents? Songwriting and poetry-writing skills.
If you don’t make it on American Idol, what will you do? Go back to college, but pursue singing on the side.
Personal goals? To live a life that I won't regret after I'm in Heaven.
What album would your friends be surprised you own? Robin Thicke.
Your American idol? Fantasia.
Any rituals or things you do before you perform? I pray to God, "If it's your will, let it be done."
Most embarrassing moments? When I fell while shooting a Ford commercial at Hollywood Week.
Proudest moment? Winning the title of "Savannah Star" 2005.
Your definition of an American Idol? Someone who is a great singer and relatable to by America!!
Favorite judge and why? Simon Cowell, because he's really nice to me.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? I'm pretty goofy and silly!
How has this changed your life? I'm no longer in smalltown Savannah anymore.
Lucky charms? No.
Heroes? My mother and father.
Toughest obstacle? Deciding what to go to college for since I'd rather sing!
Was the audition process fair? Yes. Definitely.
If you win, who will you thank first? God!!

SUNDANCE HEAD
Age: 28
Hometown: Porter, TX
Audition City: Memphis
Details: Is the son of Roy Head, who had a No. 1 song in 1965, "Treat Her Right"; his life has been centered around music; can play five instruments.
Sundance Head

20 Questions
Favorite male pop artists? Vocals - Bono/U2, Roy Head, James Brown, Robert Plant, Led Zeppelin, Roy Orbison, Guitar – Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jimmy Page
Favorite female pop artists? Sheryl Crow, Janis Joplin
Formal singing training? No.
Other talents? I play guitar, bass guitar, piano, write songs, and record well on tape.
If you don’t make it on American Idol, what will you do? Keep trying to make it, form a band and hit the road, get funded, record a record.
Personal goals? Make good records and spend time with my family.
What album would your friends be surprised you own? n/a
Your American idol?My dad, Roy Head - the gold record hanging in the hallway of our house gives me the motivation and dream to become successful in the music business.
Any rituals or things you do before you perform? n/a
Most embarrassing moments? One time in a football game in high school I went to the bathroom in my uniform in the middle of the game - they were white pants.
Proudest moment? Watching my son being born - his name is Levi Aron Head - born Nov. 22, 2006.
Your definition of an American idol? Someone who can write, sing, and play their own music.
Favorite judge and why? Simon - he tells the truth with no regret.
What would people be surprised to learn about you? I love to hunt and fish.
How has this changed your life? It has given me the chance to change my life forever.
Lucky charms? Personal.
Heroes? My family.
Toughest obstacle? Growing up after the death of my older brother, who died in a car crash 1/2 mile from my house.
Was the audition process fair? Yes.
If you win, who will you thank first? God.

POSH IDOL?

The UK's Sunday Mail reports that sources say Idol executive producer Simon Fuller wants to replace Paula Abdul with stick-thin former Spice Girl Victoria "Posh" Beckham. But Posh's plan to become a judge on the TV talent show has been scuppered by fellow Brit Simon Cowell, who is refusing to greenlight Posh Spice's arrival on the show.

Allegedly, Fuller has drafted an ambitious publicity plan for Posh when she moves to Los Angeles with husband David - who is to play for the LA Galaxy soccer team - in the summer. Fuller persuaded the Beckhams, who are clients of his and good friends of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, to move the United States.

Sources say the anorexic-looking Victoria, whose clothes frequently display her artifically enhanced chest, hopes a regular slot on a high-profile TV show will increase her profile and lead to other work including movies. One said: " 'American Idol' is a big show and getting on there would be perfect for Victoria but the problem is Simon, who is just not wearing it. He's being loyal to Paula but, more importantly, fears two Brits on the panel will reduce interest in the show and sabotage ratings." The sources also claim that FOX executives are also worried that the arrival of Posh will reduce American viewers' interest in the hit show.

IDOL ALUMNI VIDEOS

First up, Kevin Covais on "The Morning Show With Mike and Juliet," who just can't seem to lose that "Chicken Little" nickname, critiquing, with "Frangela" (that's two women, Frances and Angela), the first Idol Hollywood show. We also learn from Kevin that he's going to be in a teen movie by Lionsgate Films to be released later this year. Kevin, who raps on Paris Bennett's debut album, gives us a sample of his skills. Kevin, The "P" in Princess P must stand for polite, because Paris apparently didn't tell you that you're no Eminem. Stick to Josh Groban.

And though many Idol finalists do get that music career
they're dreaming of, others just wind a working at, well ... Hooters. Apparently, serving up wings is the saucy current career of Season 4 finalist Jessice Sierra. You can see her serving with a smile and a side of singing, here. Click on "Idol Chatter: Jacko Day and the Idol-Turned-Hooters Girl."

CONSTANTINE MAROULIS IS ALIVE AND WELL AND ACTING IN NEW YORK

Our friend Peggy L reports that Season 4 finalist Constantine Maroulis does a bang up job in a new production of "Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and Living in Paris," at the Zipper Theater in Manhattan. "The venue seats 199 offering amazing sightlines, great sound and unusually comfortable seats (most of the seats come straight out of automobiles - a great way to recycle parts of junked cars and buses)," wrote Peggy.

She adds, "Constantine put on a great show ... his theatrical training was quite evident throughout the two-hour performance. He sang, he danced, he laughed and he cried. He moved the audience, as did the other three actors. What a show!" The show runs through this Sunday, Feb. 25th. You can buy tickets here.

Maroulis was interviewed about his new role and the new season of "American Idol" earlier this month on Good Day New York.

e-mail Idol Addict
© 2007

Idol Alumni Videos

Here are links to some Idol alumni videos we wanted to share in case you haven't found them:

1. Season 4 finalist Anwar Robinson talks about whether the judges this season were mean and his own Idol experience on Fox's Live at 5.
2. Also from Fox/5 here is Season 5 finalist Paris Bennett (with yet another new wig, plus check out that Jennifer Lopez-like booty on her) performing her new song "Ordinary Love." The single is off her album "Princess P" due out this April. Our view: She's still in strong voice, but the song is weak. We don't give it much chance of charting high, if at all.
3. Season 3 runner-up Diana DeGarmo appears on "The Dr. Keith Ablow Show" talking about (what else?) her Idol experience and "Life After Idol." And pay attention: Although they don't get to speak in the clip, you'll also see Season 5 finalists Melissa McGhee and Kevin Covais sitting on the couch. Guess that's the difference between coming in Nos. 11 and 12, instead of No. 2.
4. Fans of Jon Peter Lewis should head over to AmericanIdol.com to check out the video for his single "Amanda Grace" from his debut album, "Stories From Hollywood."
5. We know we've been wondering whatever happened to Season 3 finalist Amy Adams and thanks to AmericanIdol.com now we do. Since her appearance on the show, Adams has married and had a son. She then toured in "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" with "Broadway on the Road."

OTHER IDOL ALUMNI NEWS

Playbill reports that Season 4 finalist Anthony Fedorov will join the Off-Broadway cast of "The Fantasticks" on May 1, stepping into the role of Matt in the world's longest-running musical, having played a record-breaking run of more than 17,000 performances in Greenwich Village. The Fantasticks plays Tuesdays at 7 PM, Wednesdays at 2 PM, Thursdays and Fridays at 8 PM, Saturdays at 2 and 8 PM and Sundays at 2 and 7 PM. Tickets, priced at $76, with a special $36 ticket price for selected seating on Sunday evening performances, and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com or by calling 212-307-4100. The Snapple Theater Center is located at 210 West 50th Street at Broadway. For more information, click here.

TOUCHED BY AN IDOL?

The New York Post says that Michael Jackson has turned to "American Idol" creator Simon Fuller to mastermind his comeback, which will kick off next month with a two-day meet-and-greet autograph session with fans in Japan who will pay $3,300 each to shake hands and pose for photos with the fallen star. Jackson is said to be too weak to perform.

Britain's Fuller, 46, met with Jackson, 48, recently in Las Vegas, where he's been living since his return from a self-imposed exile in Bahrain and Ireland. "This is the perfect match," fellow Vegas resident Robin Leach told Splash News, "the world's biggest pop star being looked after by the most successful mogul manager in the world." Jackson, who is said to be $300 million in debt, has been working on an album with will.i.am of the Black Eyed Peas.

And according to The National Ledger, a source told Britain's The Sun newspaper, "Michael is determined to be a global phenomenon again. He knows it won't be easy because he comes with so much baggage, but he thinks that if anyone can pull it off, Simon can."

Meanwhile, Reality TV Magazine wonders if this isn't all just camouflage to get Jackson onto Idol for a theme week:

"The [Simon Fuller-Michael Jackson] meetings have been rumored to involve doing a possible Las Vegas show to help relaunch Michael Jackson’s career. Could the rumor about a Las Vegas show just be subterfuge to cover up the real purpose of their meetings? If a faded pop star wants to relaunch their career, everyone knows the best way to do it is through an 'American Idol' appearance, not a Las Vegas show. Or assuming that the Las Vegas show is real, wouldn’t flying the 'American Idol' finalists out to Vegas to meet with Michael Jackson during a Michael Jackson theme week be the perfect promotion for the show? Could Simon Fuller really be brokering a deal for the embattled pop star to appear on America’s most popular television show?

"If Simon Fuller and Michael Jackson having secret meetings isn’t enough to get the Michael Jackson on 'American Idol' rumor mill churning, then how about the fact that 'American Idol' producer Nigel Lythgoe seemed to drop a clue about the possibility during a recent media conference call. When answering a question about the tight reign that 'American Idol' keeps on the finalists, Lythgoe said 'We don’t want anything slipping out. If we’ve got major stars coming on that we want to do a big publicity thing with. "Hey, Michael Jackson is coming to American Idol this week," then I’ve got to leave that up to Fox publicity to put out there, not have it slip out with somebody telling their Mom that Michael Jackson is coming.' Considering Nigel Lythgoe often likes to have a little fun in his media interviews, Reality TV Magazine would not be surprised if he dropped this little tidbit as a teaser to see if anyone would pick up on it.

"American Idol producers teasing about a big event show, American Idol creator Simon Fuller having secret meetings with Michael Jackson, Nigel Lythgoe telling media that he doesn't want it slipping out if a major star like Michael Jackson is coming, Reality TV Magazine predicts that this all adds up to a Michael Jackson theme week and guest appearance on American Idol 6."

IF I'M BEING HONEST ...

MSNBC reports that Simon Cowell wishes he had been more honest with Eddie Murphy back in the '80s, when Cowell was so intimidated by mega-star Murphy, that he didn't have the nerve to tell him that the songs he had written were complete and utter crap.

Cowell recalled how "[Murphy] was interested in making a record, so I flew to the East Coast, to his huge house, and I was very intimidated. I thought it would be just the two of us and a hi-fi. But I ended up in a recording studio with about 20 nodders; a nodder is someone who gets paid to agree with the person paying him. Eddie started to play some songs, which I hated, and I just didn't know what to say. Now I'd find it a lot easier. I would just say, 'I hate it.' "

For those of you who are too young to remember the '80s, or so old that you've forgotten them, here is a YouTube clip of Eddie Murphy's "Party All the Time" (or as we call it, "Potty All the Time," because of Murphy's pronunciation) a song later voted one of the "50 Worst Songs of All-Time" by VH1 and Blender magazine. Funniest thing about the video: It sets the exact scene that Cowell describes, a recording studio with a bunch of nodders.

About the song: Murphy's voice is nothing to write home about, in fact it was probably Auto-Tuned to death and still doesn't sound that great. But the song has a good beat and was fun pop dance music back then and still is today. Yes, it's even on our iPod. But hey, isn't that, at core, what Idol's all about -- cheesy pop music?

e-mail Idol Addict
© 2007

Idol Spoiler: Some of the Top 40 Semi-Finalists Revealed?

WARNING: SPOILER

Reality TV Magazine has revealed how domain name registrations appear to be giving clues as to which Season 6 Idol contestants will advance to the top 40 or so semi-finalists. Several contestants had their names privately registered as domain names on November 18, 2006, which is rumored to be right around the time the Hollywood contestants were narrowed down to the top 40 or so semi-finalists. Now with additional contestant names having been revealed in the Memphis and New York auditions, Reality TV Magazine has an updated list of which of the twenty-nine contestants revealed on American Idol so far will likely be moving on in the competition.

Of the twenty-nine contestants named so far, Anna Kearns, Sanjaya and Shyamali Malakar, Jason "Sundance" Head, Amanda Coluccio, Antonella Barba, Jenry Bejarano, Porcelana Patino and Rachel Zevita all had their names registered as domain names on November 18, 2006. All the domains show that they have been registered by Domains by Proxy, which is basically a service which hides the identity of who actually registered the domain names. One could speculate that American Idol producers privately registered the names of the contestants that were advancing to the top forty.

Jordin Sparks, Rudy Cardenas, Blake Lewis, Thomas Daniels, Sarah Krueger, Rachel Jenkins, Jarrod Fowler, Denise Jackson, Sean Michel, Melinda Doolittle, Sarah Burgess, Jory Steinberg, Chris Richardson and Nicholas Pedro all had their names registered as domain names sometime before the American Idol 6 Hollywood eliminations would have occurred. They either wisely registered their own names in the past or someone who likely shared their name registered their names. Therefore, there is nothing to suggest one way or the other whether they advanced in Hollywood or not.

But Matt Sato, Michelle Steingas, Perla Meneses, Philip Stacy, Danielle McCulloch and Kia Thornton did not have their names registered as domain names until sometime in mid to late January of 2007. Because no one took the time to register their names until after their names aired on national TV as Hollywood contestants on one of the American Idol audition shows, it could be theorized that these contestants did not advance in the Hollywood rounds.

According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, North Philly's Luis Figueroa-Roig, 17, an honor student at Girard Academic Music Program, is among the select pack of singers heading to Hollywood to compete on Fox's American Idol. Although we don't remember seeing him on the Fox Wednesday night broadcast, the Inquirer says that the teen wowed judges in his New York audition, taped in August. As a 13-year-old Figueroa-Roig competed on CBS' Star Search.

And the New York Post ran a story on the New York contestant everyone loves to hate: Ian Benardo. Among other things, Benardo said, "Simon said everything insulting in the book to me, but he has a very limited British vocabulary." Claiming that he is close to releasing a new CD single called "I'm Better Than You," of the judges reaction to his singing Benardo said, "They were all pretty shocked by me. What were they shocked about? They're like the biggest media whores on Earth. I'm a pretty entertaining person, so I was shocked that they were pretty negative to me."

Meanwhile, Fox News reports that Rosie O'Donnell responded with her usual largesse to Idol-wannabes Jonathan Jayne and Kenneth "bush baby" Briggs, who received a dose of Simon Cowell's tart tongue when they auditioned in Seattle. According to Fox, O'Donnell immediately brought the two new buddies backstage at "The View" and gave them a tour after their interviews on "Good Morning America." The pair did not appear on "The View," however, an insider says, "because Rosie didn't want them to be exploited or embarrassed more after she’d already spoken up." Not only that: O'Donnell is sending both men on all expense paid trips to Disneyworld, and they can bring anyone they like along.

ALUMNI UPDATE

... Just a reminder that Season 2 Idol winner Ruben Studdard comes to North Ford Theater at Westbury on Sunday. Tickets are still available here. You can read Dan Bubbeo's Newsday interview with Studdard here.

... The Associated Press reports that Season 5 finalist Chris Daughtry, whose band, Daughtry, has the current No. 1 CD on the Billboard charts, will perform a free concert in Greensboro, N.C., on March 23 at the Greensboro Coliseum. Between 6,000 and 7,000 people are expected to attend the concert. Daughtry, 27, is based in nearby McLeansville. While organizers wouldn't release the cost of the concert they said they expected to recoup most of the cost through concession sales and sponsorships.

... According to Fox's official American Idol site, Season 5
runner-up Katharine McPhee told People magazine in its upcoming issue that she wants people to know that who they saw on American Idol isn't necessarily who she is. The singer, whose debut album drops on Tuesdaym said, "I think I came off aloof and kind of dry [on Idol]. When people meet me they are like, 'Wow, she's pretty normal.' " She also reveals that she wasn't trying to win the competition as much as just get through it and stay healthy, as she was secretly in recovery from bulimia during the show. Today, she told the magazine, "I eat whatever I want -- like last week we went to Cabo and I ate like 30 pounds of chips and guacamole! But I put on my jeans this morning and they still fit!"

She also told People that while she might have the qualities that go into the making of a diva, she is actually quite down to earth and conscientious about her money, and that her debut CD will also shock some, as it won't have the "power ballads" that she knows that most people are expecting. Instead, she chose to follow her own musical tastes (funk, pop and dance). On excluding "Over the Rainbow" from the CD, she joked, "I'm 22, and that song aged me like 40 years!"

She also discussed what attracts her to her boyfriend, Nick Cokas, 19 years her senior: "He's really smart," said McPhee. And although they are not living together, she said "things are great." "We love to create things together." They co-produced a play at New York's Fringe Festival last summer.

... Season 5 third-place finisher Elliott Yamin will release his debut album on March 20. The album will be released on Hickory Records through RED Distribution. Elliott contributed to the writing and production of the album. Yamin said, "I'm excited to get my music out to my fans, and I'm thrilled to be back in the studio working on original music." His first single, “Movin’ On,” will be available on all digital service providers by February 13. He’s also planning a solo tour for spring/summer 2007. Check out Elliott's transformation gallery on the official Idol site.

... Jon Peter Lewis, a finalist from Season 3, is loving life right now, writing most of his own songs, touring the U.S., and serving as a panelist for MTV.com’s new program, “Idolized.” His album, “Stories From Hollywood," is available on iTunes and other online distribution companies. According to JPL, the album is part “pop rock,” part “folky” and even a bit “John Mayer’ish.” It consists of all the songs he has worked on since he was on Idol. In fact, he wrote the song “Turn to Grey” while on the Idol tour after the season ended.

While he trying to differentiate himself with his own musical style, Lewis recognizes that being on Idol gave him exposure and opportunities. However, he said he found that trying to measure up to his fellow Idol contestants, who included Jennifer Hudson and Fantasia, was mostly detrimental, but might have helped him in the long run. It forced him to become more introspective, which enhanced his music. His music inspirations tend to be classic rock ‘n roll, including everything from The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix to Al Green and Marvin Gaye, though modern influences include John Mayer, Elliott Smith, and Ben Folds.

Lewis said that when he performs now, people are there for pure enjoyment instead of to critique his music. They don’t care about the pitch of his singing voice, but rather the vibe that they are left with after hearing his music. And although he doesn’t have much preference when it comes to venues, he loves to perform in smaller ones to connect with the audience, but also enjoys, and finds himself more relaxed, in front of a larger audience, calling it a more “faceless” experience. He expects to be touring some time this summer.

An outdoor enthusiast, Lewis enjoys mountain biking and skiing and calls himself a “video game freak,” and said American Idol still plays a fairly large part in his life.

... Celebrity Spider.com reports that although Season 4 Idol winner Fantasia Barrino desperately tried to win the role of Effie White in "Dreamgirls" and even had co-star Jamie Foxx backing her, director Bill Condon had other ideas. Barrino insists to Vixen magazine that
she isn't bitter about missing out on the star-making part. "Everyone wanted me for that role except the director. But it wasn't for me. I tried really hard. But I can't even be mad. That role was for Jennifer Hudson. "I feel like I was meant to win American Idol. And I feel like J [Jennifer Hudson] was meant to play the Effie role," Barrino added.

Reality TV World reports that Season 1 Idol winner Kelly Clarkson weighed in on the "are the judges too harsh this season" issue on Access Hollywood: "The judges are a little harsh this time. But they sit all day and watch all these people come through, so you have to give them some credit," Clarkson told Maria Menounos during Wednesday night's broadcast. Clarkson also said that she's "kind of excited" about this season's show since it's the first time she's actually been able to sit down and watch because "I'm always on tour every time it comes on." Personally, she feels the "best part" of Idol is the "beginning shows" when people are "just horrible," referring to the auditions that have caused the series to take some flack from critics for the treatment of contestants.

"We're thinking [the judges] are being harsh, but what is everybody saying when they're [watching] at home?" asked Clarkson. "People are different. [Idol is] going to different parts of America, and there are different people in different parts of America ... and you love them and they're great and they're so passionate about it ... It's not justification for them being mean ... [But the judges] are nothing compared to what critics are going to say about you. You're going to have to be able to put up with people. If you think that's mean, just stop now, because it gets a lot worse."

... In an interview with BuddyTV Season 5 finalist Kevin Covais discussed the Idol audition process and its judges: " ... going there [to the audition], for me, it was so crazy because here I went up to Boston from my hometown in Levittown, N.Y., and made the four hour trip to Boston with my parents, and ended up trying out. I was surrounded by about 6,000 other people in Boston who were trying out, and it really makes you feel small and it makes you think 'Wow, there's so many people out here, these chances here are already looking bad for me.'

So, initially, it's definitely scary, but it takes going up in front of the judge ... and it took a while, it took a good six hours that first day to get in front of that first judge in the first round for me. It's definitely very scary. Every thought crosses your mind. They might cut you off after a note and tell you you're terrible and tell you to leave or they might let you sing a song for a while and tell you you're great. So, it was definitely nerve-racking, but after I got over that hump, and I advanced past the first round, that's when I realized that this was my dream and you can't get in the way of that. And from there on out, I didn't let anything stop me. But, you know, that first was definitely a scary one because you don't know what to expect.

And of the judges, he said, "Well there were other sets of judges in the beginning. Initially, Simon, Paul, and Randy, and all the earlier judges, people that worked on the show, you definitely knew that they knew what they were doing and they have experience with music and with the entertainment business in general and you can see that in their eyes. Just staring them down when you're singing for them, and their giving you this serious face and you don't know what they're thinking; they either love you or hate you or there's something else. But you can definitely tell that they're legitimate and that's the feeling that I got right away. And furthermore, they gave a lot of constructive criticism and they gave you room for improvement, and I definitely loved all the advice that I got from each and every one of them."

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