The Voice Season 4 • The Top 8 Perform

Well, it is Memorial Day Weekend and yet I am sitting at my computer, waiting for The Voice to come on. The Top 8 will be taking to the stage, looking to sing their way to the Top 6. Shakira and Usher are hoping the lone remaining contestant makes it through this week, and that Adam Levine and Blake Shelton might finally be sending an artist home. I might still be a bit cranky after they sent home 'the pretty' last week, leaving very little distraction from a few mediocre acts that should be going home. Between doing some tree and hedge trimming today, and losing the pretty one, I fear I might be a bit cranky this evening, so I hope the artists are ready to deliver!

Left to right: Adam Levine, Shakira, Blake Shelton, Usher, and Carson Daly

Carson comes out to remind us to be grateful to those who have fought for our right to enjoy reality singing competitions. He introduced the judges, and reminded us who was sent home last week, and tried to remind us about the stakes for the teams, with the possible elimination of Team Shakira or Team Usher. Then he introduced 'rarely sober' Blake Shelton coming out to sing his latest single, "Boys 'Round Here". It is as close to a Country Rap song as I have heard, like, ever.

It is a fun song, but not one I will be running to purchase any time soon. However, if you are in a frame of mind that you have to have it, you can find it on his most recent release, 'Based On A True Story...'. You can find it on iTunes or Amazon. After a break, Carson talks to Adam about what his team needs to do to keep together. He also asked Shakira about what it will take to keep Amanda coming back, and Shakira hopes America will hear her great voice. Usher hopes America realizes there is no one else like Michelle Chamuel in the competition, and will keep her on the show. Blake hopes his team makes it through again, for he is just so proud of each and every one of them. Team Adam puts up with Judith Hill, who will be singing #thatPower, by Will.I.Am and featuring Justin Bieber. She takes a very Electro-Pop song and brings it to a deep Soul place, more James Brown than Justin Bieber. I think she was great, really showing off her amazing vocals and ability to really imprint a performance with her own style. Blake loved it, and thought it was yet another performance where he could find nothing to complain about. Usher thought she started the show off well, and is a real talent. Shakira loved what she did, and loved that she is taking chances with performances. Adam was so very proud of his star, and thinks of her more as an artist than a competitor on a singing show. After a break, Holly Tucker meets with Blake to work on her performance of the song "Done" by The Band Perry. Blake asks her to stay away from the pretty side of her voice, to get down with the angry side of the song. Here is The Band Perry with "Done".

I find this performance lacking, as Holly's vocals seldom show me any depth at all. She always reminds me of the girl taking the microphone at the County Fair. I kept wanting her to do something that wasn't predictable, that wasn't safe. It didn't happen. Carson called on Usher for his thoughts, tossing some shade by calling out Urkel (with his Michelle Chamuel glasses), and Usher served back, reading Daly as 'Jimmy Neutron', and damned if he isn't right. That could be my favorite part of the show so far. Usher loved Holly's boots, and thought she was incredible. Shakira loved the performance, and enjoyed the sass and attitude. Adam loved it. Blake tells her he is so proud, as it is the first time she has really owned the song. Really, Blake? You seem to love her every week, but this was the first time? I'll move on. Judith, Michelle, Sarah and Sasha team up to take on Rihanna's "Diamonds". All the ladies look great, and I have to say I was most impressed by Michelle Chamuel, who was so completely on the for the entire song. I thought Judith and Sasha were also wonderful, but Sarah kind of was overwhelmed by it all, and faded out a bit. During the commercial break, I see the advertisement for 'America's Got Talent', and I can't imagine a judging panel I would be less inclined to tune in to hear. Back on the show, Blake is talking to The Swon Brothers, who will be singing "Seven Bridges Song" by The Eagles. First they discuss what is happening back in their home state of Oklahoma, and all 3 are moved by what they have heard, and keep everyone in their prayers. Blake loves what they do in rehearsal, but reminds them it needs to be tight. They are the last men left, and the only duo or group to make it this far in the history of the show. Here are The Eagles performing "Seven Bridges Road".

They keep the harmonies tight and strong, and I loved it. There was a real strength and heart behind it. Usher loved it, and thought it was so strong. Shakira thought it was a little bit Country, and a little Rock & Roll, and loved it. Adam loved it, but noticed there were a few moments that were a bit scary. Blake was very proud of them, and thought this performance showed how talented and unique they are. Sasha Allen talks about the pressure of being the last representative for Team Shakira, and she will be singing "Without You" by David Guetta and featuring Usher. She comes out and sounds a bit vulnerable, but soon is owning the song, her voice coming out big and bold. She is killing the song, and brings it to a surprising soft and beautiful ending. Adam just tells her how bittersweet it is to hear her, and that she is with the right coach. Blake loved it, and thought it should keep her around for another week. Usher is so glad she did her thing with it, and thought she was great. Shakira loves her, and thinks she is just so talented, and made the risk of singing another coach's song pay off. After the break, it is time for Sarah Simmons to meet with Adam, as they talk about her singing "Somebody That I Used To Know" by Gotye and featuring Kimbra. Adam feels the song has been out of culture for long enough it will be fresh with her. I am not sure about that. He feels this is the artsy kind of music she should be making. Before too much longer, here is Gotye and Kimbra singing "Somebody That I Used To Know".

I loved her audition, but ever since then, I just feel she is all about affectation, not real communication. She doesn't sing a bad note, although there is that unfortunate scream near the end. I felt like the performance was scattered, and frantic, almost manic. Blake, Usher, and Shakira are all supportive and polite, but not gushing. Adam thought she was wonderful, and one of the first people to get the song right. I roll my eyes, and opt to just move on. The four Country acts will be working together, as The Swon Brothers, Holly Tucker, Danielle Bradbery and Amber Carrington get together to sing a great song by Sugarland. They tackle "Something More", and I have to say it is a little bit less successful than the earlier group song. While all four are Country artists, they all seem to have a different take on the song, and it never comes together. No one did badly, but I didn't feel anyone shined, either. All I can think of saying is "Next!" And that would be Michelle Chamuel, who is meeting with Coach Usher to talk about her take on "Grenade" by Bruno Mars. Usher wants to pare the production back, and show off her voice and artistry. Here is Bruno Mars singing "Grenade".

Michelle's performance is powerful, and soaked with real emotion. She connects with the song on a real visceral level, and shared that with me. This was the best performance of the night, and she just controlled that moment. Shakira thought it was spectacular, and Adam was excited to watch it, and called it one of the best of the night. Blake was impressed such a big voice comes out of such a little human being. And he thought it was her best so far. Usher is so proud of her, and what a special artist she is. I have to agree with him. After a break, we learn that Danielle Bradbery will sing "Grandpa" by The Judds, one of Blake's all-time favorite songs. In rehearsal, she struggles a bit with the lyrics. We also learn she never really met either of her grandfathers, and she is singing this for them. I am not loving this performance, for I don't feel a real connection from her. She sounds great - she has a wonderful instrument - but it was very paint-by-numbers. Usher loved her boots, and loved her effortless performance. Shakira also loved it, and thought she has real star quality. Adam just thinks she is a Country star in the making, a true talent. Blake was so proud, and thinks she did the song beyond justice. That leaves us with just one more for tonight, as Amber Carrington will rehearse with Coach Adam as she prepares to sing "Skyfall" by Adele. That is a huge song by a singer not used to doing Pop. But first, here is Adele singing "Skyfall".

She has a cool new look, working some great hair. She delivered some seriously wonderful vocals, with great attitude and boldness. Blake loved her, but pointed out you can't hide the Country. Usher thought she was incredible. Shakira was sold on her with the high notes, which were amazing. Adam is just so proud, and thinks she is the first person on this show to do Adele justice. Carson tells us it is time to vote, so it is time for me to review the night. With only six acts making it through to next week, this means there are two acts leaving tomorrow night. I truly hope that Judith, Sasha, Michelle, Amber and the Swon Brothers are safe, for they all had strong vocals this week. Danielle was good, but I felt a bit off this week. The weakest of the evening for me was Sarah and Holly, neither truly connecting with me for their moment in the spotlight. Of course, it all hinges on who has the most votes, and which two have the least. Speaking of votes, to learn how you can place your vote, visit the official website. In brief, you can vote via a toll-free phone number, online at NBC.com, with the special NBC App, or Facebook. Unlike some shows, The Voice limits the amount of votes people can place per method. You can vote 10 times per phone, or 10 times via Facebook, or 10 times via NBC App between now and 10AM Tuesday morning. The phone number is (877)553-37XX, filling in the 'XX' with the artist number. Those numbers would be Judith Hill 01, Holly Tucker 02, The Swon Brothers 03, Sasha Allen 04, Sarah Simmons 05, Michelle Chamuel 06, Danielle Bradbery 07, and Amber Carrington 08. Don't forget, your iTunes purchase also counts as a vote, if you are so inclined. There is a link to all the songs on the iTunes front page.

The Voice Season 4 • Reive & Recap Live Playoffs 2

Last night, we had several excellent performances to kick off the Live Playoffs for Season 4 of 'The Voice'. Team Adam and Team Usher showed some talent, and a little bit of nerves. Can Team Blake and Team Shakira top those performances, having the chance to watch from the audience. Or will the pressure to match those add an extra layer of nerves to them all. Team Blake, made up of Justin Rivers, Holly Tucker, Danielle Bradbery, and The Swon Brothers, and Team Shakira, with Garrett Gardner, Kris Thomas, Karina Iglesias, and Sasha Allen, will be singing for your votes tonight. We won't know about the results until tomorrow night, but first, they must sing. And so they will. And not just the contestants, for we also find out there will be a special performance by Shakira and Blake, which should be exciting.

Left to right: Adam Levine, Usher, Blake Shelton and Shakira.

The competition starts with a clip of Blake taking his team to a karaoke bar, trying to let them relax and show the best side of them for the audience. They all took a turn at the microphone, with a time to sing, and to laugh together. This will prove useful as Team Blake sings "Boondocks" by Little Big Town. The harmonies on the chorus are wonderful, bright and strong. The solos were not as strong, just a bit rough. On the whole, it was fine, just unexceptional, and I will admit I expected more from them. And after a commercial break, it is time to Shakira to send out her first artist, Garrett Gardner. In his rehearsal, we learn Garrett will be singing the iconic "Imagine" by John Lennon. Shakira is looking for Garrett to take the song to a new place, to sound more rock anthem than ballad. First, let's hear John Lennon sing this classic.

This is a tall order for the 17-year-old, to sing a song as big as this, and to start the night to boot! He did a nice job, and changed it up just a little bit. He showed some nice color in his voice, and delivered some nice moments. It would be hard to not realize he was in the shadow of an icon, not in the sun like he should have been. But having said that, this is just the beginning of the night, and there are more performances to come. The first performer from Team Blake to have their moment in the spotlight is Holly Tucker. In her rehearsal, we learn she will be singing "How Do I Live", the Diane Warren song made famous by LeAnn Rimes. The original had such a distinctive sound and feel, for LeAnn has an incredible voice. But we also learn Holly has issues with her confidence, not with her singing, but the way she looks. Blake reminds her she is beautiful, and deserves to be there. As the song begins, she seems bold and in control of the song. She attacked the vocals, and it paid off for the most part. However, she lost a bit of control toward the end, and the final run was just messy to me. Her falsetto went awry, and you could tell she knew it. However, it didn't seem like Usher, Shakira nor Adam realized it, for they all praised her vocals, and told her she looked beautiful. Blake loved it, and thought she put her self in the position as one of the singers to beat this season. Next up, Kris Thomas takes his turn for Team Shakira, the man with the falsetto. He will be singing "When I Was Your Man", by Bruno Mars. Shakira is quite hands-on during the rehearsal, including singing with him! But first, here is Bruno singing his song.

Kris started off a bit nervous, feeling like he was standing back just a bit. But he warmed up into the song, but never fully. In the middle of the song, he picked it up and did a nice job, and never went off key, despite the nerves. Adam points out the nervousness, and would like to see him relax more. Blake, on the other hand, loved the nerves, for this is important and they should be nervous. Usher just thinks the man is a talent that should be recognized. Shakira was so very proud of him, and thinks he is not only a talented man, he is also a wonderful person, and she is proud to work with him. Next up, Blake works with The Swon Brothers, helping them prepare "Fishing In The Dark" by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. While Blake loves them, he worries about their vocals, for they can get a little sloppy. Right away, they are on their game tonight, the vocals tight and precises. They have an old-time Country feel that cannot be missed. Zack and Colton delivered. Usher loved them, and thought they were great. Shakira always enjoys them, and can't wait to hear them next. Adam also enjoyed them, and joked about how 'Blake' they were! Blake just loved they sounded fantastic, and taking care of all the notes from rehearsal. He is thrilled they stayed so tight. After a break, it is time for Blake and Shakira to put their money where voices are, and they sing "Need You Now" by Lady Antebellum.

I am really surprised, for Shakira sounded great on the song, really delivering the goods. Blake stayed in the background at first, but really came to life on his solo vocals, delivered so very strong and clear. This was a charming performance, one I liked even better than the Usher/Adam duet last night. Karina Iglesias is up next for Team Shakira, singing "Let's Stay Together" by the Reverend Al Green. Shakira loves the soulfulness in Karina's voice, and thinks this will make it stand out. She starts off the performance well, already showing more control and strength in her voice than her last time out. There is a nice soulful sound in her voice, and she delivers a strong performance. Adam loved her, and thought she was fantastic. Blake loved it, thought it was so intense. Shakira is so proud, feeling she left it all on the stage with that song. After the break, we come back to see Blake rehearsing with Justin Rivers, preparing to sing "Meet In The Middle" by Diamond Rio. Blake warns him to relax his airways, and give more life to the vowels. Before he sings, this is Diamond Rio singing "Meet In The Middle".

Right away, I am not sure this was a great song choice for him, as his voice sounds a little shallow, a bit soft, and is swallowed a bit by the band. But midway through, he relaxes just a bit and his performance comes to life. His voice adds some richness, with some depth to it as well. He was most definitely better by the end of that song. Usher loved it, and felt it was a real Country moment for Justin. Shakira loved it as well, and finds him to be a reliable performer. Adam loved when he really owned the performance later in the song, and it really came alive. Blake is just so pleased with his pupil, proud of how well he handled the whole performance. Next, we have the final group performance of the night as Team Shakira will take on the classic "We Are The Champions" by Queen. She brought her choreographer, Nadine "Hi-Hat" Ruffin. Shakira wants something unforgettable to happen. The song starts off well, each performer taking a solo. But the chorus together was a bit soft, and only Sasha Allen stood out for me. I suspect this was not the moment Shakira was looking for, as this was mostly forgettable. After the break, it is time for the last of Team Blake to find her way to the stage. But first, Danielle Bradbery goes to rehearsal to get some thoughts from Blake as she takes on "Maybe It Was Memphis" by Pam Tillis. Blake loved the song when it was a hit 20 years ago, and loves that Danielle is singing it now. But first, let's listen to Pam Tillis singing "Maybe It Was Memphis".

This is an excellent choice for Danielle, and her voice sounds beautiful and crystal clear throughout. She delivered the emotional texture to the song, and I saw nary a false move. Usher loved it, and Shakira was left speechless. Adam was loving it, and angry that she was not on his team. Blake could not be happier with her performance, and thinks she might very well be the most important artist on the show, for he expects much of her after the show. I can't be sure, but she could be the 'Carrie Underwood' for this show, a real star on the Country music scene. This leaves us with our last performer of the evening, as Sasha Allen goes to rehearse with Shakira. She will be taking on "Oh! Darling" by Paul McCartney, and performed by The Beatles. Shakira loves her, and just wants her to deliver the grit throughout the song. But first, here are The Beatles singing "Oh! Darling".

I have to admit, I love Sasha's voice, but the song started off just a little soft for me. But that doesn't last long. Her voice picked up such great depth and heft, and there is an amazing grit to her voice, such a desperation in her soul, I was crazy about where this song went. The end of the song was amazing, so raw and so real. I just loved this performance, and hope it pays off for her in votes. Speaking of votes, we will get the results from the performances tonight as well as Monday night, with an hour results show on Wednesday at 8PM on NBC. To learn how you can place your vote, visit the official website. In brief, you can vote via a toll-free phone number, online at NBC.com, with the special NBC App, or Facebook. Unlike some shows, the Voice limits the amount of votes people can place per method. You can vote 10 times per phone, or 10 times via Facebook, or 10 times via NBC App between now and 10AM Tuesday morning. The phone number is (877)553-37XX, filling in the 'XX' with the artist number. Those numbers would be Garrett 01, Holly 02, Kris 03, The Swon Brothers 04, Karina 05, Justin 06, Danielle 07, and Sasha O8. Now is the time to place your vote, and let your Voice be heard. Is there a song you are dying to buy off iTunes?

American Idol 12 Recap & Review - Top 4 Encore - The Music of Now & Then

Well, we learned that the performances and voting were all for naught last week, for the Producer's Twist was that no one was going home, something many of us saw in the cards due to the remaining broadcast schedule. But in the lamest of seasons to date, the 'big' news was that the show would adhere to the schedule, and the expected non-elimination would happen. This week they asked the contestants to come up with songs that apply to the theme 'Now & Then', meaning picking a hit song from 2013, as well as a classic song from the Great American Songbook. We will find out if the new performances can change up the voting order, as last week Angie and Kree were the Top 2, while Amber and Candice filled out the Bottom 2. Can the producers and the judges convince the voters to keep the skinny girls around? Only time will tell. After all, they are going to have to send someone home this week, aren't they? Before we find out, the Top 4 will have to sing for survival...

Clockwise: Candice Glover; Kree Harrison; Amber Holcomb; and Angie Miller.

The show starts out with a clip of the non-elimination last week, and the emotions it brought out. Judges were hugging contestants, and they were hugging one another. But it means it is time to get down to business, for the performances tonight and next week will decide who is going to the finals. The announcer brings out Nicki Minaj, Randy Jackson, Mariah Carey, and Keith Urban, followed quickly by Crusty, who announces not only will the energy be up this week, but the ladies will be coached by Harry Connick, Jr, and Crusty also tells us the two themes for the night; first the ladies will sing a hit song from 2013, and then will follow that up with a song from yesterday, a classic standard. Connick certainly has a history with both, having gained popularity as a crooner, as well as making music of his own. The performances kick off with Angie Miller singing “Diamonds” by Rihanna. She tells Harry she will be mixing it up, and putting her own spin on it. But first, let's hear Rihanna singing "Diamonds".

Angie and Harry are cutting it up, but it went on a bit too long. For the performance, the production is stripped back, with Angie on the piano to make the judges happy. I am not loving the arrangement, for the song was sluggish enough without adding to it. While she stays in tune for much of the song, toward the end she starts to strain, and falls off key. Keith didn't love the performance, felt it didn't go anywhere. It felt too stripped back for him. Nicki felt it was lackluster, like she was playing more to the cameras than from her heart. Basically, Randy and Mariah agreed, although Mariah refused to say she agreed with Nicki, prompting more articles about the panel, and not the singers, I am sure. Pardon me while I roll my eyes. After the commercial break, we see Amber Holcomb meeting with Harry, telling him she will be singing “Just Give Me A Reason”, originally sung by Pink and Nate Ruess. Amber forgets the words as she was singing for Harry, but he doesn't care, he just loves her voice. This is Pink and Nate Ruess singing "Just Give Me A Reason".

The song starts off in a nice place for her voice, showing some nice support. But the performance overall is a bit hollow, with the chorus being just a bit too staccato, almost sing-song. She did stay on key better than usual, although there were a few notes that strayed. It was fairly dull, and seemed like the wrong choice of songs to sing. Nicki didn't love it either, and felt it was lacking. Randy thought she looked nervous, or maybe preoccupied. She admits to being nervous about the lyrics. Mariah tried to brush off the mediocrity, looking forward to the next song. Keith loves her voice, but didn't love the performance. After what seemed like an endless commercial break, Crusty brought out Candice Glover for her first song of the night. In the video, Candice tells Harry she will be singing “When I Was Your Man” by Bruno Mars. She wants to tell a story, not be the subject of the song. Well, cause she's not a man. Harry is trying really hard to be funny, and seems like he is trying too hard. But soon it is over, so let me share Bruno Mars singing "When I Was Your Man".

She is in exceptional voice, and plans to show that to everyone. The first verse sounds a bit nervous, but that soon disappears, and she delivers the goods. She puts an R&B spin on it, and really is able to soar on it. Randy loved it, and so did Mariah. She thought it was exceptional, and Keith didn't care about the gender bending, she sounded great. Nicki thought they were remiss for not giving her a standing ovation, and so Randy and Keith joined her in one for Candice. After they were done, Mariah stood to flicks some glitter at her, getting her own moment. Frankly, I thought Candice deserved more attention than the judges... Crusty tells us that after the break, it will be time to see Kree Harrison, who will be singing a song that Carrie Underwood sang on that stage just a few weeks ago. In the video clip, Kree tells Harry she will be singing “See You Again”. After she sang it for him, he loved it, and told her not to change a friggin' note. Here is Carrie singing "See You Again".

She begins the song with a sweet and warm tone to her voice, and it stays there. She sounds fantastic, and the song reacts well to her sparse arrangement. This allows her voice to be front and center, and she sounds amazing. I thought she was brilliant, and put Kree and Candice in a dead heat after the first round. Mariah loved it, and felt she was magnificent, and sounded so authentic. Keith didn't agree, and felt there was a disconnect between the song and the performance. Nicki thought Kree was totally connected to the song, and she loved it. Randy agreed, and thought her voice was flawless. Even Harry Connick, Jr, had to come out to say how much he loved the performance. As he was announcing the numbers, Crusty called her Kreedom, as if Nicki was now giving them all new names... If the first four performances featured the music of 'now', the next four will feature the music of 'then', as the contestants picked a classic standard from the Great American Songbook, just so we don't get to thinking they can seem current the whole show. As we start the rotation again, Angie is back with Harry, and tells him she will sing “Someone To Watch Over Me”. It was composed by George Gershwin with lyrics by Ira Gershwin from the 1926 musical 'Oh, Kay!', where it was introduced by Gertrude Lawrence. This is a recording by Sarah Vaughan from 1958.

Angie dedicates it to her Mom, who used to sing it around the house. She does a simple arrangement, soft and sweet. She begins nicely, but soon the slowed tempo of the song reveals her voice to be a bit uneven, and at times get covered by the band, while at other moments strains too be over the top. There were times her vibrato got a little abrasive, battering. Keith loved it, even if it did feel so old fashioned. Nicki thought she was like a Disney Princess, and how she only seemed engaged during the high end of her voice. Randy loved her vocals, even if he hated the arrangement. Mariah tried to disagree with Nicki, and lost the singer in the mix. After a break, Crusty reminds us the votes from last week are being added to those of last week for the results tomorrow night. In the video clip, Amber tells Harry she is singing “My Funny Valentine”, first recorded by Mitzi Green in the MGM Musical 'Babes In Arms'. It was written for the 1937 Broadway show by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. When she starts singing, Harry recognizes she doesn't understand the song at all, so he explains it to her. Connick thinks she has a beautiful voice, and hopes she connects with (and understands) the song in performance. But before that, give a listen to this recording by Ella Fitzgerald from 1956.

As she starts singing, I don't really see a difference. She has plenty of vocal tricks, but again they seem more like a crutch than an expression. It was very paint by numbers, but I didn't feel it coming from her heart. It was fairly hollow. Of course, the judges greeted her with a standing ovation, and they loved it. They thought it was great the first time she sang it (with no understanding of the lyrics whatsoever), and even better now (after Harry explained it to her). She cries a little, and they try to lift her up. But they do seems to have come to the realization she was the weakest of the night, and stands a good shot at going home. Crusty chats with Harry in the audience, and he disagrees with the judges, and felt the run at the end of Amber's performance distracted from the song. Soon we see Candice going to see Harry again, telling him she will be singing “You’ve Changed”, originally written by Bill Carey and Carl Fischer in 1941. It was first released by Harry James's band with vocals by Dick Haymes. Harry helps her to simplify her performance, to mean what she is singing. Listen to this amazing version of the song recorded by Billie Holiday in 1958.

She comes out in perfect voice, and connects with the lyrics. She is singing from the heart, and her emotions are on her sleeve. There is an ebb and flow to the performance, and it was fantastic. Even when she brought some runs in the end, they were tied to emotion, not acrobatics. Randy loved it, and took the moment to tell Harry he is wrong (when he wasn't), and doesn't know what he is talking about (even if Connick was brought in as the expert mentor). Mariah thought it was brilliant, so touching and textured. Keith loved it, and Nicki thought no more was needed, and tossed it to Crusty. He reminded us that we still have Kree to sing tonight. In her clip with Harry, Kree tells him she will be singing “Stormy Weather”, a song written by Harold Arlen and Ted Koehler. Ethel Waters first sang it at The Cotton Club night club in Harlem in 1933 and recorded it that year. He tells her to cut the pyrotechnics, and sing the damn song. The song became a signature song for great Lena Horne after she sang it in the 1943 film of the same name, so enjoy her performance here.

She comes out looking beautiful, and sounded fantastic. Her tone is so crisp and so clear, and she sticks to the melody for most of the song. She puts in some embellishments toward the end, and gave it a Country feel to it. I thought it was stunning. Mariah is unsure it was the right song, going for something more bluesy. Keith thinks it was the wrong song as well. Nicki has a problem with Harry, and with song choice. Randy basically says Harry was wrong and taking them in a wrong direction, and she must be herself. And that means doing the Etta James version of the song. Harry gets hilarity of that statement, and even Nicki does, but it still seems lost on Randy. I am not sure, but I think Harry just nailed his audition to be a judge for American Idol Season 13. After all was said and done, they talked Kree down, while telling her her vocals were stellar. After a break, the ladies came down the aisles with their own dancers in two, and they were singing “Wings” by Little Mix.

This was nice, but sure sounded not live. It had a very 'Up With People' feeling, and not really connected to the rest of the show. It is time to recap, it comes down to the fact that Candice and Kree were the two best for the night for me. It wasn't close. There is a big gap, and then Angie's performances. At the bottom is Amber, who I suspect will be leaving tomorrow night. No amount of blowing smoke is going to make it sound any different to me. Of course, one never knows until the results are read on Thursday night, at 8PM. Well, to be honest, at 8:55PM on your local Fox station.

The Voice Season 4 • Battle Rounds 3

As the fourth season of 'The Voice' continues, we see how well the two new judges meld with the two old judges. Both Shakira and Usher have been exuberant in their roles so far, with Shakira scooping up her two steals already, and Usher offering the first bitchslap of the season to a couple of contestants he felt needed to realize the opportunity they had in front of them. Returning judges Blake Shelton and Adam Levine, winners in three finals between them, seem to be hungry to win again. The auditions are over, and 48 acts have found mentors in the coaches, each of whom will bring 12 members of their teams into the battle rounds. We are halfway there, and between tonight and tomorrow night, the team will be set. And as he has for all three previous seasons, Carson Daly will be handling the duties of host, keeping things moving between the singers and the judges. At the top of the show, Usher tells us his teams will blow our mind... Each coach has great support, as Adam brings in Hillary Scott, lead singer of Lady Antebellum, while Blake has Sheryl Crow, Shakira has Joel Madden, lead singer of Good Charlotte and coach on 'The Voice Australia', and Usher has Pharrell Williams. They will all be on hand to help get the contestants ready to prove they deserve a shot at the finals once the Battle Rounds are complete.

Left to right: Shakira, Adam Levine, Blake Shelton, Usher, and Carson Daly.

As we begin tonight, we know Shakira has used both steals available to her, while Adam and Blake have used one a piece. Usher has both to use, having lost in his two attempts to Shakira and Adam. In fact, Usher is putting together the first Battle tonight, when he puts Jessica Childress and Vedo into the ring. They are talented singers, and Usher asks them to sing Bruno Mars' "Locked Out Of Heaven". Jessica isn't sure the song is the right key for her, but Pharrell tells her it is perfect. Vedo shines in the first rehearsal, but it is Jessica who sounded great in the last rehearsal. Who will Usher pick?

This is a wonderful duet, as both have strong voices with amazing rangers, just right for Pop music. Shakira thought it was a 'feel good performance', and Adam agreed, thinking they were both wonderful. Blake feels bad for Usher, for he feels they lit up the room. Usher is very proud, as both did exactly what he asked of them. They make the decision hard, but he has to give the answer. He picks Vedo, which leaves Jessica up for a steal, although no one picked her up. After the Battle, Vedo wishes his mother, who is in the hospital with Stage 4 cancer, was there to experience his success. Usher comes back stage to give him a hug. Next up, Team Shakira is going to the ring with Luke Edgemon and Monique Abbadie. With their first meeting, Monique admits coach Joel Madden was on her book covers in Middle School. Both Shakira and Joel were impressed with Luke's vocals, and the honesty he delivered. Monique, on the other hand, felt less real. Can Luke deliver in front of the audience, or can Monique connect to the song when it matters the most?

Both look nervous as they prep to enter the ring. Carson calls them to the ring, and Luke leads them off with a strong vocal. Monique starts with an affected line reading, but soon relaxes into the song. At the end of the day for me, Luke totally took over that performance. Adam agreed with me, thinking Luke was a revelation. Blake loved Luke as well, and Usher thought they were great together. Shakira decided to make a strategic decision, and picks Monique, assuming Luke will be picked via steal. As soon as he is available, Blake hits his button to steal, followed by Usher. Luke is a bit overwhelmed, and they take a commercial break so he can decide. Will Usher get his first steal, or will he lose out again? Luke surprises by picking Blake, leaving Usher with both his steals to use. Then it is time for Team Blake to take their turn in the ring. This Battle features Jacqui Sandell and Savannah Berry, singing Little Big Town's "Little White Church". At the first rehearsal, Sheryl Crow gives notes to both girls, and they have homework to do. For the final rehearsal with Blake, he is pleased with the progress made by Jacqui, but pushes Savannah to stay on tempo. Will Jacqui continue to grow under Blake's direction, or will Savannah finally nail the song?

Before the performance begins, I am interested in what will happen here. Savannah has a rich and gorgeous voice, but Jacqui can deliver the quirk that Blake seems to love. Carson calls them to the ring, and the battle begins. Savannah sings first, and she is in great voice. When Jacqui begins, her voice sounds a bit thin, like nerves are kicking in. Savannah stays on tempo, and in fact, a couple of times Jacqui fell behind a beat. I think Savannah really took the gold this time out. Adam thought they were both adorable. Usher thought they were wonderful, and couldn't decide. Shakira loved them too, and thinks it was Savannah by a nose. But it is time for Blake to make up his mind, and he picks Savannah. Jacqui thanks Blake for having such a strong influence on her as a singer. There is no steal, and it is time for Jacqui to go home. It is time for Team Shakria to take to the ring, with Kris Thomas and C.Perkins battling. They will be singing Bruno Mars' "It Will Rain". C.Perkins seems to have a problem with staying in tune. Kris sounds great, relaxed and feeling the song.

Kris leads off the song, and is just right on the vocals. C. joins him, and by comparison, his voice sounds a little thin. They duet on the song, and the song was a bit odd for me, didn't really give them a chance to show their best. I would pick Kris, but who knows? Adam thinks they were both something, and Blake enjoyed it, but thinks they were holding back a bit. Usher wished he could have coached them. But it is Shakira's choice, and she picks Kris as the winner. C.Perkins thanks Shakria for all he learned from her, but didn't get the Steal, well, until C. was giving a hug goodbye, so he will now be on Team Usher. Now it is time for Team Adam as he pits Midas Whale against Patrick Dodd on "Burning Love" by Elvis Presley. There is a tightness to the Midas Whale, with former American Idol finalist Jon Peter Lewis. Patrick has a strong voice, and it has a rich rasp. Both know they have to be at the top of their game to win the battle. Who will Adam choose?

Patrick kicks off with that raspy voice, and Midas Whale chimes in sounding great. With the Bluegrass feel, the song travels more places than the original lite radio feel, for I kinda expected more from this Battle. Patrick came off kinda one note, milking that rasp for all it was worth, and showing no real range. Midas Whale had the character choked out of them with the speed of the song, not allowed to have their harmonies shine. The other coaches loved them, but offered on help to Adam. He agonizes over a decision, saying this was his toughest on the show yet. I'd pick Midas Whale, but that is more of the negative of the performance making the choice. I think both are better than they showed. Apparently, it was better live, but finally, Adam picks Midas Whale. Patrick thanks Adam for the support he has offered, and leaves, with Usher not using his final steal. And soon it was his team to battle. Usher and Pharrell try to talk to Orlando Dixon and Ryan Innes as they rehearse with Bill Withers "Ain't No Sunshine". Pharrell tells Ryan he is doing it right, just be sure to be clean with his notes. Usher and Pharrell pull Orlando aside, and tell him to connect to the song, and not hide behind his voice, to let it tell the story. At the final rehearsal, Usher is pleased with both, and fears it will be a tough decision come show time. Who will make it to the finals?

Carson calls Orlando and Ryan to the ring, the final battle of the night. Ryan starts off the quiet arrangement, his voice in fine form. Orlando's performance tries to combine the Soul inherent in the song with modern R&B. Ryan has a richer, fuller-bodied voice, while Orlando has a greater range with beautiful control. Both were in great voice. Shakira loved them, but couldn't decide. Adam had no problem picking Orlando, while Blake loved Ryan. Usher struggles with a choice. Finally, he picks Ryan, the big man with the deep voice. Finally, it is time for Orlando to thank his coach, and Adam takes the opportunity to use his last steal. Tomorrow night is the final Battle Round, with all the teams needing more singers. Usher is the only coach left with a steal, and we promise it will be used wisely...

It's Too Late For 1 American Idol Contestant

Tonight could be an interesting night on American Idol, because there has been an overwhelming general consensus about the contestant leaving tonight, and that can be where Producer Nigel Lythgoe can be a bit more creative, and insert some drama. But you never know for sure until it happens



Crusty tells us that a big group of fans will be disappointed their favorite is going home. The judges have their moment, with the focus on Steven. And they announce their guests tonight, Bruno Mars and Crystal Bowersox.



They have a segment on the Royal Wedding, with far too many bad British accents flying. This leads to a medley of Carole King songs, with hits like Go Away Little Girl, One Fine Day and It's Too Late, among others. After a commercial break, we get to see the Ford Music video, in which the Idols sing Our House by Madness.



The runner up from last year, Crystal Bowersox, comes out to sing her fantastic song, Ridin' With The Radio, from her debut album Farmer's Daughter.



There are questions for the Idols, and Casey is first, saying he would duet with Oscar Peterson because, well, would we expect any differently? Jacob discovered the range in his voice when he was 6 or 7, via a park ranger. Lauren said the hardest part of being an Idol is missing her friends or family, especially in the South. Scotty answered a question I couldn't understand, either Crusty's asking it, or Scotty answering it. James has been in several bands, including one with Casey, Stefano, and Paul. Haley says her favorite past Idols were Adam Lambert, Siobhan Magnus, and, of course, Kelly Clarkson. Ryan atttempts to make a Taylor Hicks joke, which seems overly petty to me.

Haley is up first, and Jimmy Iovine says she has the best voice, but her indecision as an artist might cause her to go home. After the vote, she is safe. Scotty is up next, and Jimmy says he has a subtlety that might be overlooked. We don't get an answer on him, but Crusty asks him to have a seat. Lauren is up next, and Iovine talks about her insecurities, but he thinks she is in the game for the long haul. Casey is next, and after the judge's lovefest, Iovine talks about the angry growl Casey uses every week, and that the family dog doesn't vote... But Iovine thinks he will be safe. Casey is also on hold for the results, and we take a break.

James is up first, and following the recap, Jimmy Iovine finds him believable not with heavy metal, but with Pop/Rock. And he is safe. Finally, we have Jacob and his recap, and Iovine takes a shot at the wardrobe choice, and thinks he is not safe. Crusty calls Scotty, Casey and Lauren to join Jacob, only to send Lauren to safety. As we go to a commercial break, I realize he never really mentions if this is the bottom 3 or not, so I don't know what this means. Only that we will find out who is leaving after a performance by Bruno Mars.

When we return, we get to hear Bruno singing The Lazy Song. I find the reggae beat used to be a bit overly cute, but then remember no one is voting no anyway, and just sit back to enjoy. It's not like he is singing live tonight... Come on, you know they tape some of them in advance, using multiple takes, right? You didn't? Whoops...



So we are back, hopefully learning the fate of Jacob, Casey and Scotty. This, I can assure you, is live. However, I will admit I am distracted by the commercial that says he sometimes goes commando. I wake up to hear that Jacob is safe! Going home tonight, we find out Casey Abrams is heading home, and there is no judges save to help him. Scotty is safe. There is a recap of his stay on Idol, and his plan to single-handedly bring Jazz back. Crusty reminds us that Casey is what talent looks like. I manage to roll my eyes as Casey starts singing I Put A Spell On You. He runs around, kissing ladies and young girls. And the contestants.

GLEE Redux - Furt

Top to Bottom: Bernstein's Wonderful Town, Rosemary Clooney, and Bruno Mars.

Once again I am recapping the latest episode of Glee, only using the videos of the original songs rather than the covers. Hope you enjoy.

This episode opens with a disheveled Kurt being escorted to Finn's locker by their respective parent, who announce they are marrying. Kurt is excited, Finn less so. They are not the only wedding on the scene, Sue is getting married. To Sue. After all, no one else could be a match for her, right?

After a discussion with Finn at the locker about the wedding plans, Kurt is intimidated once again by Karovsky, his bully/stalker. Mr. Shue sees it, and takes Kurt to the principal - Sue - who explains she can't do anything until Kurt is hurt. After explaining how this has made him feel, Kurt points out to Sue he feels her calling him 'Lady' is a form of bullying. Good for him!

Sue's mother shows up to help with the wedding. She has spent the last several years chasing Nazis around the globe. She is Sue Senior! Sue is getting a taste of her own medicine!They go over the wedding plans, and she says she will sing at the wedding.

The girls get together and Rachel explains how their boyfriends need to take on Karovsky, to protect Kurt from his bullying. In the locker room, the boys, save Finn, take him on until the Bieste interrupts. Sam grows to be a hero in the blink of an eye.

Sue's mother practices the song she plans to sing, Ohio from the musical Wonderful Town. They discuss why she abandoned her kids, to chase the Nazis around the world, leaving Sue to take care of her handi-capable sister, Jean.



While Kurt tries to teach his dad, Burt Hummel, and Finn to dance,Karvosky ventures by, and makes a limp-wrist to Kurt, which makes Burt crazy. He goes after him. They meet with Principal Sue, who tosses Karovsky out of the school.

Santana helps Finn get ready for the wedding. She wants to come clean about their having sex, and Finn says no, he won't hurt Rachel, he loves her. To start off the wedding, the kids sing I Think I Wanna Marry You by Bruno Mars.



During the wedding, both Burt and Carol talk about their wonderful boys, and what they mean to them even at their wedding. During the reception, Mr. Shue sings the song Sway. The song, written by Mexican composer and bandleader Pablo Beltrán Ruiz, was originally made famous by Dean Martin, but I love Rosemary Clooney's version.



Best man speech, and Finn makes me cry when he tells Kurt he has taught him more about being a man than anything else. They are Furt - Finn & Kurt - and he just wants to step up and help from now on. And everyone dances to the Bruno Mars song Just The Way You Are, including a spotlight couple, Furt.



Jean and her mother talk for Sue's wedding rehearsal. Sue tells her mother she is a bully, since whenever they talk, she always feels worse about herself. Next,we find ourselves in Principal Sue's office to discover the school board has backed Karovsky, and he is coming back to school. The newly married couple are not happy, and neither is Principal Sue, who resigns her position in protest of this decision, and the fact that the office smells bad. So, a decision is made, and Kurt goes to the Glee room to tell everyone. He is leaving the school to escape the bullying. Although the boys offer to protect him, he knows he must go, even if it means he will be competing against his friends at regional championships. He will be teaming with his new buddy, Blaine.

GLEE - Audition - Real Soundtrack

Well, the debut of GLEE is finally here, and it reminded me how much I missed it. In case you missed it, here is the preview for the second season.



There are a thousand sites (at least) that will be recapping the show, so I thought I would try something different. I am thinking I will be offering up the original songs the kids will be covering on the show. The first song was the kids offering up a version of Jay-Z & Alicia Keys singing Empire State of Mind.



If only briefly, new cast member Chord Overstreet, playing football player Sam Evans, sings Poison's Every Rose Has It's Thorn in the shower with Finn overhearing.



Rachel is in the ladies room and overhears a exchange student Sunshine, played by Charice, singing Lady GaGa's duet with Beyoncé, and her competitive nature kicks in as they sing Telephone. OK, the following isn't really Lady GaGa, but it made me laugh.



Sam Evans comes in to sing with the boys at Finn's insistence, and he breaks out the guitar and performs Travie McCoy's Billionaire, featuring Artie instead of Bruno Mars.



Sunshine comes in for an audition, after Rachel sent her to a crack house, and performs Listen from Dreamgirls. All I can say is Beyoncé should be checking Charice's version out!



Rachel is called on her antics by Finn, who tells her to apologize. Before she can face the kids in the choir, she takes a moment by herself to sing What I Did For Love from A Chorus Line. The version below is by Alyson Reed the movie version - I couldn't find a good version by Priscilla Lopez from the Original Broadway Cast.



So, that is the soundtrack for the Season 2 premiere, the duly named Audition.