American Idol Shootout

It is the American Idol semifinals and we have three competitors left, Melinda Dolittle, Blake Lewis, and Jordin Sparks.

Each of the Idols had a week to remember when they visited their hometowns and huge rallies were held for them. I am sure we will see lots of footage about the home town visits on the Tuesday and Wednesday night shows.

This week the American Idol contestants are faced a difficult assignment, they will performing one song that they choose themselves, one chosen by the judges, and one chosen by Clive Davis. It's the infamous American Idol Shootout.

Let's have a look at each of the contestants and what may be the pros and cons of each.

Melinda Dolittle
Melinda has been without question the most professional and consistant performer through out the entire American Idol process. It seems almost ludicrous that Melinda might not win, but it seemed her performances last week were not quite up to the standards she has set and we have to wonder if the pressure is getting to her? Is Melinda wilting under the pressure?

Blake Lewis
Blake has yet to prove he is not a one trick pony. Collectively fans are still waiting to see if Blake can hit one out of the park that isn't "beatboxed". I like Blake, I can see he has talent, but in order to win or make it into the finals he has to prove he can perform excellently without gimmicks. Tuesday night will be a true test of Blake, he will perform 3 songs, we can count on one of them being his signature beat box style, but how will he handle the other two songs?

Jordin Sparks
Jordin's immense talent has been tempered by her lack of life experience. The judging has been cruel towards her when she has attempted to do anything that involves life beyond her 17 yrs of experience. It will be interesting to see what the judges pick for her to perform, it should be very interesting to see what Clive Davis picks, but the most interesting might be what Jordin picks for herself to sing.

In the past the judges have been accused of throwing American Idol contestants they don't favor or want to see in the finals boat anchors when choosing a song for them. Clive has usually chosen a song that would test their recording artist ability of each contestant. It will be an interesting night to say the least.

Don't miss the Top 3 performing three songs in the semifinals Tuesday at 8/7c and then come back Wednesday at 9/8c to see who makes it to the Top 2!