Oakland teens make it to “American Idol’s” top 13
American Idol’s result night was a mix of absolute celebration and deep disappointment for the 30 contestants vying for a place in competition’s Top 13. Weeks of long days, intense pressure, hard work and hopes were placed in the hands of fans who voted for their favorites after live performances earlier this week. The judges held three wild-cards to play. When the results settled- Jena Irene, Farmington Hills and Malaya Watson, Southfield stood among the Top Thirteen survivors. They move forward in the competition.
Malaya was the first to be called forward to take her spot in the Top Ten. With her long bouncy hair flailing behind her, she blew kisses and ran in circles, touching the hands of the audience, bubbling with joy. One by one contestants were called to the stage to fill the ten chairs. Jena Irene was not included. She had not received enough votes.
The judges, Harry Connick Jr., Keith Urban and Jennifer Lopez, held three wild-cards, which means they could save three of the remaining contestants. Only five would be allowed to perform, and Jena was second to be called to sing for her “American Idol” life. Accompanying herself on the piano, she didn’t disappoint.
“This was a good use of this moment,” said Keith Urban. “You can sing and play.” You have a really good artistic sign right there.”
Host Ryan Seacrest asked Jena what she thought of her performance. With a deep sign of relief, Jena smiled and said, “It felt good. I’m not going to lie about it.”
As they have all season, the judges dragged out the drama as long as possible before naming Jena as one of the three wild-card survivors. Jena Irene and Malaya Watson join the “American Idol” Big 13.
The Top Thirteen
Surviving to the Top Ten, or in this case the Top 13 in the “American Idol” competition is a monumental milestone for contestants. Not only will millions of Americans know their names, but their music careers will be launched. They will be asked to join the American Idol tour, when it is announced, and the pressure will be cranked up to impossible levels.
The rules change for the finalists. They will be taken on a shopping trip, and given a budget to buy new outfits, and their hair and make up will be in the hands of expert beauty consultants.
At this point, the challenge for contenders will be to hang on to the natural qualities that the judges spotted early-on. The Top Ten is ultimate goal- the only thing better could be becoming the next “American Idol.”
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