“American Idol” dream continues as Oakland teens raise the bar
The big nine remaining “American Idol” hopefuls raised the competitive bar this week with strong, polished performances.
The theme, “I’m with the band,” put contestants in the role of lead singer for their live performances Wednesday night, March 26. Southfield’s Malaya Watson and Jena Irene of Farmington Hills pushed that bar higher with amazing performances, and were rewarded with votes that carried them forward in the competition. At the end of the Thursday Night results show, Majesty Rose of North Carolina was sent home. The judges did not use their one “save” for the season to keep her in the competition.
A video look back at Malaya Watson’s tuba playing and cheerful life at Southfield High School was in sharp contrast with the poised 16-year-old singing live before the American audience. She mesmerized the crowd and judges with a strong yet sweet rendition of the Beatles’ romantic “The Long and Winding Road.” In a rare “Idol” moment, all three judges praised her voice.
“That was beautiful, baby, “ beamed Keith Urban, while Harry Connick Jr. called Watson “most consistently improved of the remaining contestants.”
A brief look at Jena Irene’s life before the “Idol” experience hit the highlights of her normal life as a senior at North Farmington High School and her job as a waitress at Hercules Coney Island in Farmington Hills. Irene was feeling the pressure of being the last singer of the night, following a powerful performance by rocker Caleb Johnson. Irene didn’t disappoint. Closing the show with “Bring Me To Life,” by Evanescence, Irene brought life to the song, working the stage, singing to the band members and impressing the judges. Acknowledging the intense pressure Irene faced, Harry Connick Jr. complemented her, saying, “You were really strong and I hope you are happy.”
Urban kept the compliments flowing, saying Irene always delivers.
“You look great, and you have your own lane,” he said, referring to her distinct style.
Next week the final eight will take the stage in the battle to become the next “American Idol.”
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