Final 2

Ok, so this blog is going to be short and sweet because everything I have said through the entire season of this blog remains the same after the performances this week. Here is how I see it broke down:

Round 1: Contestant Choice

Lee - The Boxer. This was slightly better vocally than last time, but just as great overall and no much difference.

Crystal - Me & Bobby McGee. Just as great as last time.

Round 1 Winner: Tie. Nothing extra special from either one that we did not see when they originally performed these songs.


Round 2: Simon Fuller Choice

Lee - Everybody Hurts. This was a brilliant song choice for Lee. Fit his voice perfectly.

Crystal - Black Velvet. I absolutely love this song, but was not impressed with Crystal's version. This is the first time she has performed and I actually did not like it.

Round 2 Winner: Lee


Round 3: Winner's Single

Lee - Beautiful Day. Good song for him but I don't think it was edgy/gritty enough for him. He struggled vocally in parts but I believe that is mainly due to nerves and adrenaline.

Crystal - Up To That Mountain. Kelly performed this song when she appeared on an Idol Finale a few seasons ago (circa Season 6?) and I LOVED her performance of the song, which I had never heard before. Crystal's version, all though not as good in my eyes as Kelly's version, was still good and she was wholly immersed into the song and it was obvious. I loved her emotional performance.

Round 3 Winner: Crystal

So, based on my round by round winner selections, it seems to be a tie and that's not a real surprise. To be honest, this week did not highlight all that Lee has become. He had moments where he seemed completely confident but his vocals reflected his nerves. Crystal had her moments of greatness but she too had her rough patches (Black Velvet). I think these are the most deserving Final 2 that we have ever seen on a Finale and the race is going to be a close one. Either way, I am buying both of their albums and will be truly happy with either one winning. That being said, I believe that when the final results are announced Kris Allen will be succeeded by Lee DeWyze as our newest American Idol. I also believe that this is the best route for Crystal. I think she will have much more creative freedom being signed as the runner-up then she would the winner (a la Adam Lambert). Either way, both of these contestants will see great success and I look forward to purchasing both of their CD's on the day they release.

In a season that overall seemed sort of hum-drum, thank you Lee and Crystal for making it worth sticking around!