American Idol Viewers Criticize Top 24’s ‘Off Key and Pitchy’ Song Choices in Hawaii – The latest episodes of American Idol, which saw the Top 24 contestants hit the stage in Hawaii, have sparked a wave of criticism from viewers regarding the song choices made by the contestants. The performances have been described as “off key and pitchy,” leading to a backlash on social media platforms. This criticism comes amidst a broader discussion about the quality of the music selection for the contestants, with some viewers expressing disappointment in the choices made by the contestants themselves.
One of the notable criticisms came from a viewer who expressed disappointment in Julia Gagnon’s performance, stating that her song choice was a poor one. This sentiment was echoed by another viewer who was disheartened by Emmy Russell’s performance, indicating a general dissatisfaction with the song choices made by the contestants. The criticism extended to the judges as well, with some viewers suggesting that the judges might be overly optimistic in their assessments of the contestants’ performances.
Despite the criticism, there were moments of praise and highlights from the performances. For instance, Jelly Roll, the guest mentor for the week, was particularly impressed by Triston Harper’s country performance, praising his voice and potential. Other contestants, such as Ajii, Kennedy Reid, Jack Blocker, Roman Collins, and KBlocks, received positive feedback from the judges and the audience for their performances, with some even receiving compliments on their stage presence and vocal delivery.
The episode also featured a special appearance by Vanna White from Wheel of Fortune, who helped introduce the next singer, Ajii, in a playful manner. This moment added a unique and memorable touch to the episode, showcasing the show’s ability to incorporate unexpected elements into its format.
In response to the criticism, Jelly Roll expressed his desire to help the contestants find their voice and connect with their performances more authentically. He emphasized the importance of trusting one’s voice and finding a song that resonates with the contestant’s personal story. This sentiment was echoed by the judges, who provided constructive feedback to the contestants, encouraging them to bring their unique style and story to the stage.
Overall, while the episode faced criticism for the song choices made by the contestants, it also showcased moments of genuine talent and connection between the contestants and the audience. The episode served as a reminder of the importance of choosing the right song and delivering a performance that is both authentic and engaging.
What Are Some Common Themes Or Trends In American Idol Song Choices?
American Idol contestants often face scrutiny for their song choices, which can significantly impact their performance’s reception and their overall chances of success on the show. Based on the insights provided in the sources, several common themes and trends emerge regarding the song choices made by contestants:
Avoid Overdone Classics: Contestants are advised not to sing songs that have become overly familiar or “overdone” on the show. This includes iconic hits like “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston or “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor. Singing these classics can lead to unfavorable comparisons to the original artists and may be perceived as a lack of creativity.
Steer Clear of Popular Radio Hits: Choosing the most popular songs on the radio can be risky. While contestants might be able to pull off a unique rendition of a chart-topper, such as Kenzie Hall’s acoustic version of Macklemore’s “Can’t Hold Us,” generally, it’s better to avoid these songs to avoid being compared to the original artists. This advice suggests that contestants should aim for songs that are less mainstream to stand out.
Avoid Songs Previously Sung by Winners: Contestants are cautioned against singing songs that have already been performed by previous winners of the show. This includes songs like “Lovesong” and “I (Who Have Nothing),” which have been sung by many finalists. Singing these songs can make contestants appear as copycats, which is not ideal for distinguishing themselves.
Choose Songs That Reflect the Contestant’s Identity: It’s crucial for contestants to select songs that resonate with their personal story and identity. This involves understanding the lyrics and the message behind the song, ensuring that the performance is not just about singing but also about connecting with the audience on a deeper emotional level. This approach helps contestants to stand out and make a memorable impression.
These themes and trends highlight the importance of strategic song choice in American Idol. Contestants must carefully consider their song selections to avoid pitfalls that could hinder their performance and their chances of success on the show. By avoiding overdone classics, popular radio hits, and songs previously sung by winners, and by choosing songs that reflect their identity and story, contestants can increase their chances of making a strong impression and advancing in the competition.
ALSO READ: Downey Open to Returning as Iron Man
