GolightlyGrrl's Blog

Cue up the “Rocky” theme. It’s the battle of the Davids, David C vs. David A. Or as my friend Jo-Jo brilliantly put it, “Hot vs. Tot.” We’re at the Nokia Theater and the Davids are ready to rumble (gee, this boxing theme is lame). I’m just happy to know I weigh less than David C.

Ryan introduces the judges. Paula is pink and sparkly, just like her pills. And Randy and Simon are sporting jackets but are sans ties. We find out that Clive Davis (fresh from his crypt from the depths of hell) and Andrew Lloyd Webber are back to act as mentors. And I’m sure Clive will give us a snooze-inducing sales report Wednesday night. That’s bathroom break time.

David A won the coin toss and will go second. But do the judges have any last minute advice for the Rumbling Ds? Randy tells us that they have to bring everything; it’s a duel for the King of the Nokia. Paula advises the final two to enjoy themselves, soak it up, and may the best man win. Apparently this is also her mantra when she goes out to Les Deux on ladies night. Simon tells the Davids they must have a desire to win and they should hate their opponent. The Davids trade sweet comments to each other because unlike Simon, they don’t have lumps of coal where their hearts should be.

First Round-Clive Davis’ Pick

Clive picks U2’s iconic “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” for David C. Okay, now I have to like Clive just a wee bit. I’ve been a huge U2 for more than half my life, and if any contestant is up to the challenge, it’s David C. He’s in fine form in both voice and performance. He connects with the lyrics and the audience. David C is so ready to rock some giant rock stage. Is he “even better than the real thing?” Not exactly, but he is worthy. Can you imagine Kristy Lee making this song into a hoe-down? Eesh!!

For lil David A, Clive picks the Elton John classic, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.” At first, the performance starts as standard issue David A fare, but as the song gets going his performance gets stronger. He seems to have cut the puppet strings, and shows a lot more energy and wee bit more artistry on stage. Already, tweeners are planning on decorating their bedrooms in full David A regalia.

Round Two-New Song Contestants' Choice

As you probably heard by now, AI sponsored a songwriting contest. I didn’t have the stomach to listen to them, but David C and David A did. David C chose “Dream Big” for the second round. I’m not blown away. “Dream Big” sounds like a track even the DAUGHTRY! would have rejected for being too derivative. The song is chockfull of clichés but that’s to be expected for an Idol coronation wannabe song. David C gives this song his all, and seriously rocks out. Plus, “Dream Big” is rather catchy in the chorus.

David A sings “In This Moment,” which is not “A Moment Like This.” Now, this song sounds like the typical Idol coronation song, which in means it could be a graduation song for the next “High School Musical.” The lyrics are beyond sappy, but David A’s voice sounds divine.

Round Three-Contestants’ Choice

Now it’s time for the Davids to choose any song to sing. During this round, David C sings Collective Soul’s “The World I Know.” He admits that he has never sung this song before. This could work for him or against him. Some may appreciate David C for taking a risk and others might have wanted him to sing one of his earlier showstoppers. However, I think David C is up to the challenge, and I liked his performance. I appreciate how in one moment he can totally rock out and then show his tender, sensitive side.

David A does not take a risk and sings “Imagine” by John Lennon, which he sang several weeks ago. Sure, David’s voice is a joy to listen to, but I find my mind wandering during his performance. I barely remember it once it is over. And hold on, judges. Don’t quite crown the boy king the winner of American Idol. Unlike the tweeners, I’m not quite sure I want to see his face on pillow cases when I shop at Target.

Well, it’s now in our hands. Our texting and dialing fingers will determine the next American Idol. Season two winner Ruben serenades us with “Celebrate Me Home” while footage of the highlights and lowlights of AI’s season seven flash on the screen. I make sure a bottle of wine is chilling in my fridge. Wednesday night is going to be a long night.