Mergan Joy performs "Walking After Midnight" (Photo by M Becker/American Idol 2009/Getty Images for Fox)
For the second week of the finals, American Idol Top 11 performed songs made popular by the members of the Opry calling this week the “Grand Ole Opry week.” Country legend Randy Travis was this week’s mentor.
Michael Sarver opened the night with the song “Ain’t Goin’ Down Till The Sun Comes Up” which Paula liked saying that the genre suits him well. Randy loves the song choice but wasn’t sure if it showcased Michael’s great vocals. Kara enjoyed the performance but she thought that Michael missed some of the big notes. Simon commented that the performance was a bit clumsy and that he didn’t understand a single word from Michael’s performance.
Singing her own rendition of Patti Loveless’ song “Blame It on Your Heart,” Allison Iraheta came up next. Kara said that she’s getting better every week and she made the song her own. Paula suggested that Allison choose songs that would make her vulnerable; however, Paula thought that Allison’s performance was rock solid. Simon said that it seemed as if Allison was struggling to remember the lyrics. Randy described her performance to be “dope.”
“To Make You Feel My Love” was Kris Allen’s song choice for this week. Simon thought that his performance was terrific. On the other hand, Paula was pleasantly surprised by the performance. Randy and Kara loved the performance as well.
Lil Round’s sang “Independence Day” which the judges didn’t like much. Although this wasn’t Lil’s best performance, Kara gave her props for standing by her song choice. Paula commented that Lil shouldn’t have done the two verses. Simon said the song didn’t suit her. But, Randy said it was interesting.
The fan favorite Adam Lambert sang a very different version of “Ring of Fire” which wowed the audience. Kara said the performance was a little stranger but liked the “drama.” Paula commends Adam for being true to himself. Simon said the performance was indulgent rubbish. Randy said Adam sounded like Nine Inch Nail singing a country song.
Scott Macintyre sang “Wild Angels” while playing the piano. Paula was impressed with the performance but said that Scott needs to rely a little less on the piano. Simon thought that Scott isn’t picking the right songs. On the other hand, Kara said that Scott brings class and poise to the stage.
Randy didn’t like Alexis Grace’s rendition of “Jolene” saying that there were many pitch problems and arrangement didn’t work. Kara didn’t like the performance as well saying that Alexis lost her edge. Paula disagreed with the two saying that Alexis showed different sides of her voice. Simon said that the performance was “okay” and unoriginal.
Danny Gokey chose to sing Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus Take The Wheel.” Randy thought the performance was pitchy. Kara said that the first part of the performance wasn’t spectacular but halfway through he turned on the magic. Paula and Simon agreed that Danny’s performance was brilliant, but Simon hated Danny’s outfit.
Anoop Desai sang Willie Nelson’s “You Were Always On My Mind” which the judges really liked. Simon said that he went from zero to hero with the said performance. Paula was so proud of him for choosing a song that suits him well. Kara thought Anoop’s performance to be the best of the night. Randy said that Anoop proved that he could really sing.
The sick Megan Joy sang “Walking After Midnight.” The judges commended Megan for pulling off a great performance despite her sickness. The judges agreed with each other that Megan Joy picked the perfect song.
Last to perform that night was Matt Giraud who sang “So Small” by Carrie Underwood. Simon believes that Matt surpassed Danny Gokey tonight. Randy said that Matt’s performance is his favorite tonight. Paula commended Matt saying that he’s an authentic performer.
Tomorrow night, another Idol finalist is set to be sent home.
