American Idol came to Portland, Oregon as auditions begin to near its end. There was an abundance of talent in this great city… much more talent than individuals making a mockery of themselves which was refreshing. While no one blew the roof off of the place, Portland did give us plenty to look forward to this season.
Idol has found their first guest appearance in Sara Bareilles if the phenomenal Brittany Ziks makes it to the finals. It would only be fitting for Fox and Bareilles to fulfill Ziks’ dream of singing a duet with the 2011 Grammy nominated artist. Another young beauty, 27 year old mother of two, Britnee Kellogg belted “You’re No Good.” Ths number may have been inspired by her real life experience of being left by her sleazy baseball player husband. It has been said that the best music comes from heartache. Who better to take on this number than Kellogg? She had soul and such a passion that had not been seen as prominently in other cities. So many of the individuals who came out to Portland poured their heart and soul onto the stage and the judges noticed. The talent and the ability to reach so deep within benefited over 40 of those who made it to Hollywood. Who else is looking forward to hearing more from Portland come Hollywood week?
Talent surpassed the not so gifted musically in Portland. Naomi Gillies dared to sing one of Steven Tyler’s own and nailed it. That was an easy “Yes.” She took quite a gamble taking on a judge’s song but it worked out well in her favor this time. Jermaine Jones was also quite a talent Fox showed off this week. He was terribly nervous though so he’ll need to work on that as the competition nears live shows, if he makes it that far. While Jones made it through to Hollywood, he will either go far in the competition or get cut early on. It would be a shame for him to get drowned out but it happens. We can only hope the best.
22 year old Liberian refugee, Romeo Diahn is another wonderful vocalist but but judge, Jennifer Lopez pointed out something very significant. Because of his unique sound, there’s a bit of worry for him and his place in this competition. What a shame it would be for Diahn not to make it at least to the first live show so that America had the opportunity to weigh in and have it count. Either way, Diahn has made a name for himself by appearing on Idol and will not go unnoticed from this moment on. Finally for the good, there was Jessica Phillips who has a sweet voice. She’s another one who was not phenomenal and could get drowned out in Hollywood but only time will tell. Her vocals may not be heard by millions week to week for much longer but her story brought the waterworks and she could be a great inspiration for young wives everywhere in similar situations.
So there’s the good and then there’s the bad and ugly. 18 year old Philadelphia television service provider salesman, Ben Harrison auditioned with a clogged throat and nose. Attempting to sing a Lady Gaga number and a Nicki Minaj number, let alone audition period, congested or not, were terrible decisions to make. Whoever his co-workers were that urged him to audition were playing a cruel joke on him. Sam Gershman was no better. A Bette Midler wannabe gone wrong. If she is not embarrassed by her audition, what a sad state that is to not be able to see reality clearly. That said, her overflowing amount of energy should be used somehow in the entertainment business… however singing is just not that avenue. David Weed was another sad individual to get the boot. But perhaps with some training, this kid could find his way in an ensemble of a musical. Weed wasn’t terrible. The song choice was and his lack of preparation were his downfall. Try again next year buddy!
Idol threw us for a loop introducing us to 28 year old Ben Harrison who walked in looking like he had something to offer. It took no time at all to discover what it is like to hear a tone deaf male sing “Somebody to Love.” No longer are nails on a chalkboard the worst sound in the world. Harrison should never attempt to sing again. What do you think? Who were your favorite and least favorite singers in Portland? Which city has been your favorite so far?
Watch American Idol Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8/7c on Fox.
