We have seen it all before. Twelve young men and women who were lucky enough to have survived the early auditions, Hollywood week, and the recent semi-finals. They now have the opportunity to transcend their wildest dreams; to gain a devoted fan base; to entertain and dazzle us with their charisma and vocal talent. As anticipated (no big surprises here) a few are already failing to meet expectations. Not unique to this season, some have started to sip the fountain of impertinence – and just like before, a handful are falling victim to the Seven Deadly Sins of American Idol!
In their defense, this week was considered the biggest week so far for the Top-Twelve Idol contestants; and we know it is too soon in the game for a winner to be declared with confidence. But many lessons can be learned from what has gone before. If only these starry-eyed singers would take note as they enjoy their ride on the infectious and self-serving Idol bandwagon.
This is season number five of American Idol and everyone has their own idea of what is good, bad, lacking or sensational on American Idol. We take pride in sharing the drama of watching those contestants mold their reach for stardom. As in any art, that finished product will either excite or disappoint, based on individual taste.
This week there were some excellent performances from Katherine McPhee, Mandisa, Elliott Yamin, and Taylor Hicks. Others would be advised to review those performances. In this article I am not going to comment on the skill or methodology of our resident judicial panel – suffice to say they also are guilty of one or two of these sins.
Here is a list of what are The Seven Deadly Sins of American Idol.
1: Amnesia – Do not forget lyrics when you need to rally the voting public’s support in your quest for stardom. Actors, veteran pop-stars, singing sensations, politicians, and brides or grooms can get away with it. American Idol finalists cannot! Repercussions? Good-bye Melissa McGhee!
2: Certitude – There is a fine line between confidence and audacity. Just because you are touted as being a hot favorite or a lovable (token sympathy vote anybody) outsider does not mean that your advancement is guaranteed. However, based on the obscure voting this week, anything can happen. You two know who I mean!
3: Stagnation – Feeling super confident due to years of, probably successful, amateur performances – or even simply because you know you can essentially sing anything – does not mean you should not endeavor to blow our minds away each week. Lisa and Mandisa take note!
4: Arrogance – If you are prompted to respond and return comments to the judges (usually Simon Cowell), this does not mean you should display a cocky and presumptuous manner. People will quickly decide it is no longer funny Mr. Covais.
5: Disengagement – This is a difficult one which all contestants suffer from periodically. Song choice is not only important to match your vocal range – but also for audience affinity. If I listen to two moderately entertaining performances, whichever one includes me; entangles me within the rhythm and the beat, and delivers total vocal conviction; that is the one I will remember and talk about the next day.
6: Affected – The judges love this term. It simply means to put on a false show, or to simulate another. If Karaoke and impersonating your own Idol is your thing, then find another competition to enter. You must be yourself, expand on your own talents and abilities. Develop your own personality and uniqueness – while showing the ability to diverge musically. Even it means you give a less than great performance occasionally. People forgive genuineness quicker than they do pretense – hence the continued presence of Kellie Pickler!
7: Invariability – Ok, so we know you can sing. We have been told you have something called the X factor. You had great auditions in Hollywood, and during the semi-final stage. But if you fail to demonstrate versatility, as in the desire to sing in the same style each week (I bet Chris Daughtry could turn “Silent Night” into a rock anthem), then you risk boring everyone to death! At your cost, viewers will eventually agree, “We have seen it all before!”
