Nine Finalists Compete

Ryan begins by telling us that tonight’s show will be 90 minutes long and that Gwen Stefani has been the stylist this week. It’s Rock ‘n Roll week!

Will I. Am is the coach this week.

Jacob starts out the show. His initial song choice was Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get it On”, but he feels like the song represents something he doesn’t endorse, so he chooses “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson. He starts singing and immediately pulls out his ear-mounted audio “helper”. It’s not a good sign, but he manages to be restrained and refined during this performance, and doesn’t go wild.

Haley chooses “Piece of My Heart” by Janis Joplin. It’s a great song choice, a horrible outfit, and her high-stepping around the stage is awful.

Casey also changes song this week. He chooses “Every Little Thing She Does” by Sting, then decides on Creedence Clearwater’s “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” It’s a good decision --- he changes it up a bit, puts his stamp on it, and shows a softer side.

Lauren sings Aretha Franklin’s “Natural Woman”. She’s much less country-sounding this week and gives the song a real R&B feeling. I think it’s a terrific rendition, but Randy says he’s heard better versions of this song on this very stage.

“While My Guitar Gently Weeps” by George Harrison is James’ choice of song. It showcases his really sweet, pure vocals and he gives is a bangin’ ending.

Scotty’s already confessed he’s an Elvis fan, so it’s no surprise that he chooses “That’s All Right, Mama”. He sings it like seasoned performer.

Christian Slater is in the audience with his daughter, a big fan. He talks a little about his new show.

Pia chooses “River Deep, Mountain High” by Tina Turner in an attempt to show us that she can sing something other than ballads. It’s a really outstanding performance.

Ryan points out that Todd Rundgren is in the audience.

Stefano is up next singing “When a Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge. He really connects emotionally with the audience tonight.

Paul wraps up the show with Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues”. It’s an amazing performance --- he really gets the audience moving!

My prediction is that Jacob, Haley, and Stefano will be in the Bottom Three tomorrow night and that Jacob will go home.