America's biggest karaoke contest is fully underway, and I thought I'd make some comments on it. (I keep an eye on as many music-related things as I can, even if I don't agree with the concept.)

First off, let's get one thing straight - the show is as much about finding a voice as it is a popularity contest. While past winners have displayed talent, this isn't a songwriter's contest.

Anyway, last year High Point's Fantasia Barrino stole the show on a consistent basis, and everyone knew she would win.

This year, it's not as easy. It's difficult to find that one person that stands out.

Anthony Federov - This year's Clay Aiken doesn't lack talent, but he's definitely high on the popularity scale because of his sob story - "Will he ever speak again? Now, he can sing." He may make it a few more rounds, but I don't see him winning.

Anwar Robinson - He's got the voice, but lacks the personality. He's not someone that everyone can identify with, and not enough of a backstory has been shown to make him a favorite.

Bo Bice - Aside from having a name that's fun to say quickly, ten times fast, he's also one of the "grandfathers" of the competition at age 29. He's got the rock presence, but will enough people vote him in as an idol? I doubt it. Unfortunately, this isn't rock idol, it's more like pop idol.

Carrie Underwood - She's got one of the best voices in the competition, but she's also got a hint of country. She's rocked out one week, and dressed like Tammy Wynette the next. She's also got the personality of a napkin. If it's truly a singing competition, she'll be tough to beat.

Constantine Maroulis - It's something for the ladies. People look at him as a Jim Morrison-esque rocker who had a lot of backstory shown on him in earlier rounds. He left his band for Idol and the popularity contest has him going far. If he has one off week with his not-so-great voice, he's gone. (He's also 29).

Scott Savol - How in the world is this guy still in the competition? Aside from his only movement being - outstretch arm toward the camera, and sweep across....outstretch arm, sweep across - his voice is generic and plain. Last night it sounded like he was talking. I would have voted him out three weeks ago, but tonight will work, too.

Vonzell Solomon - In my mind, she's gone from the back of the pack to the front. She started out weak, but made it through to the finals and has gotten stronger every week. To quote the show, "It's her competition to lose." If she continues on the track she's on, she'll be tough to beat.

Let me also say that I think Simon Cowell is the smartest judge on that panel. Randy thinks everyone is "pitchy," Paula loves everyone and would dance to a drum roll. Simon, on the other hand, is grounded and tells it like it is.

That's enough about that - I need to go listen to something good to clear my head.

Posted by jeffhahnedisabled at April 20, 2005 9:31 AM