It was mid-afternoon, sitting in my car, when I unwrapped the newly purchased copy of the CD – which as usual, frustrated the heck out of me, struggling as always with the ridiculous amounts of “security” tape and wrapping which my short finger nails could not overcome. The compact-disc was “The Way/Solitaire”, which by all accounts would define the success of Clay Aiken.
On the recent American Idol results show (Wednesday 17th March) Clay introduced us to the much awaited commercial release of “Solitaire”, a flip-side to “The Way” (to be more precise, “Track 2” of his new single.) “The Way” is on the album and is a sure-fire hit with anyone in love. Clay’s edited version of “Solitaire” which he sang on the show (the CD version is almost five minutes long) was met with the usual rapturous applause he had become accustomed to on the American Idol set. Only this time it was different. This time he was not fighting to move to the next round of a competition; this time he didn’t need to impress the judges.
From the moment Clay walked on stage, it was obvious that what we were seeing was not the geeky kid from North Carolina or the self-effacing contestant who had high-hopes of at least reaching the final. What we saw walk on that stage, that night, was Clay the “artist”. His presence evoked screams and shouts of adornment from the audience, and I suspect from viewers at home. Looking very stylish and “chic” in his designer suit and turtle-neck, Clay was every part the professional performer. To prove he didn’t just look the part, Clay sang with that uniqueness and distinctiveness which had captivated a nation and won the hearts of thousands. The excellent performance was, well, just that! A performance which the season three contestants sitting nearby should watch again and again, this time taking notes; maturity, vocals, presentation, style, camera and stage presence. Hitting the glory note towards the end of the song even sent chills down my spine, and I don’t get “chilled” often.
We did not witness any interaction between Clay and the judges. By design I wondered? I initially thought it would have been interesting to hear what they had to say now! But at the same time I wholeheartedly felt it was appropriate. Clay Aiken no longer needs acceptance or words from the judges. He proved and has proved to everyone over this last year, that he has left the critic-inspired tag of American Idol Runner-Up well behind him. Clay Aiken is now far beyond American Idol. I no longer think “American Idol” when I think of Clay Aiken; I think recording artist and star. I think of a young man who has spent the last year honing his skill and technique; who now not only appears as, but has become, a true artist and performer. His roots will remain in the franchise and he should always remain grateful to the show; however, gratitude in this case is a two-way street. American Idol didn’t only make Clay a star, Clay had a hand in making American Idol the biggest show on TV.
Listening to his new CD while driving home (after finally removing the wrapping) I was struck with the feeling that, finally, Clay Aiken had arrived. My only criticism is that the mixing and percussion on “Solitaire” was pretty poor. There seemed to be an annoying “tapping” half-way through which was, I believe, percussion; not the best arrangement, but at least the CD should do fabulously well. Overall, Clay has again nailed it down; hopefully his critics will finally agree. His performance on the results show was a fitting rebuttal to those who had doubted his ability to make it in the “big wide-world of popular music” after the finals of AI2. He has drawn sold-out crowds. Has a successful tour with Kelly Clarkson. He’s wowed televisions audiences on numerous TV shows.. Sold 2.4 million albums, and he continues to grow as a person and an artist. This double-hit CD encapsulates the very essence of the man. The voice, the passion, and the promise of things to come. I think the unspoken question has been answered fully and without any doubt or contradiction. Clay Aiken is here to stay – Farewell to American Idol.
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