Video - Miley Cyrus Rushed on Stage by Crazy Fan During Australian Concert

Pop singer Miley Cyrus was rushed by a crazed fan during her “Gypsy Heart” tour in Melbourne Australia last night.

She had just finished her popular song “The Climb” when a crazed fan jumped on the stage and attempted to grab Miley.

Fortunately, security guards ran to her aid and pulled the female fan away from Cyrus and threw her off the stage. Ouch!

Miley was visibly shaken and can be heard saying “Oh my God…” when the fan was grabbed by security.

The attack is at the end of the video…

Watch Crazed Fan Rush Miley Cyrus during Concert


Miley’s troubles come just a day after another young pop star, Justin Bieber, was attacked at an event on Harold Square in New York City while doing press for his new perfume “Someday.”

Related: Video – Bieber attacked at Macys Someday Event

Some reports say it was a miscommunication among off-duty security guards but some eyewitnesses say a man charged Bieber and attacked him before being subdued by security.

No if we could just get somebody to attack Lady Gaga and knock her down a peg or two – where’s Chris Brown when you need him?

See Also:
> Video – Miley Cyrus Does Justin Bieber on SNL
> Video – Miley Cyrus covers “Smells Like Teen Spirit”


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A Nine Year Old's Rap Sheet

The summer movie season continues eating away at our budget intently, as two movies came up on the docket this weekend... the first came as a result of our nephew Benjamin coming to visit.  The 9 year old and his family live in Jasper, but they spend time here in B'ham with the in-laws (mine, not theirs) frequently.

One of the activities including him playing hours and hours of LEGO Harry Potter on the Wii, and another was a movie... "Kung Fu Panda 2".  Originally subtitled "The Kaboom of Doom", I'm kinda glad they dropped that and just went with the "2" part.

Anyway, I liked the movie as much as the first one.  Its premise basically surrounds a panda named Po (voiced by Jack Black) who, in the first film, learned he was a "dragon warrior" and was taught Kung Fu, and joined up with other members of the Furious Five, including Tigress (Angelina Jolie) and Mantis (Seth Rogan) and others.  For whatever reason, Grandmaster Flash wasn't included in this.

The bad guy this time around is an evil peacock named Shen, deliciously vocalized by Gary Oldman, and you'll hear other familiar voices like Jean Claude Van Damme, Dennis Haysbert and Danny McBride. 

The animation is wonderful, the story is solid and flows well and its perfect for just about anyone of any age.  You kinda wonder if there is an attraction between Po and Tigress, but the real relationship moments are between Po and his adoptive father, Mr. Ping.  You can tell its adoption when you see Mr. Ping is a goose. 

Po wonders who he is, knowing that a goose cannot be his real dad, and begins to question his family... and in a touching moment, Mr. Ping is forced to watch his beloved son Po walk away to battle. 

As far as Po's real family, they kinda do that movie thing where one of the main issues in the second movie is an issue they don't even address in the first one... sorta like, when you realize Riggs wife is dead in the first Lethel Weapon, its only a minor plotpoint they use to establish the character, but when Lethel Weapon 2 rolls around, it becomes a major point in the story.

Same with Po's real family--only used to establish Po's character in KFP 1, but in KFP 2, it becomes a plot point.  Guess you can do that with sequels... 

And man that 9 year old kid loves him some Panda.  And Bakugon.  And Bey Blades.  After the movie, then dinner at Chick Fila, we dropped the quickly tiring The Lovely Steph Leann off at The Cabana, then Benjamin and I spent some time first at The LEGO Store, then Toys R Us.

I do love The LEGO Store.  Of course, every time I go there, I look over at ABC Toys, where The Happiest Place in the Mall used to be, and I throw up a little in my own mouth.  Like I did last night.  Ended up walking out with three LEGO guys he built himself, and a couple of Harry Potter keychains I bought for myself.

At Toys R Us, he spent about 30 minutes in front of the Bakugon and Bey Blade aisle, touching just about every toy and telling me which ones he had and which ones he needed.   I listened intently, though I can't say I learned anything.

Should be noted that for whatever reason, he likes rap music.  I dont think he fully understands the concept of "rap music", other than its style, so I was forced to fumble through my car for something that he could listen to.  Luckily, I had a copy of "The Greatest" by LL Cool J, and was able to pop in "Mama Said Knock You Out", which he rather enjoyed.  My other other CDs in the car at that moment included Norah Jones, Sara Bareilles, Sarah McLachlan, Darius Rucker and, of course, Dwight Yoakam's Greatest Hits--$5.99 at Wal-Mart, I considered it a steal. 

Songs that I did manage to find on radio that made the cut were the edited version of "California Love" by Tupac and Dr. Dre... "Rocket 2 U" by The Jets... "Head Over Heels" by Tears for Fears... "Big Time" by Peter Gabriel... and "The Come Back Song" by Darius Rucker.  "You Give Good Love" by Pre-crack Whitney also came on, but he informed me, "I don't like slow songs.  I like rocker songs.  And rap music."

We got about 34 seconds into "Dre Day", but I was able to flip the channel just as I heard the syllable "Muth..." and saved the day.  Sometimes SiriusXM will censor, sometimes not.  And since I listen to 90s on 9 a heckuva lot, I was bewildered that because I hear "Hip Hop Hooray", "Gangsta's Paradise" and "Baby Got Back" repeatedly, I just knew I would catch one of them for Benjamin's listening pleasure... but when I needed them to come on, I got nothing.  Thats how I knew my life was outta luck, foo.

He did ask me if I had ever heard an Eminem song... I told him I had.  He asked me if I liked any Eminem songs.  I told him not many, though there were a few that I kinda liked.  He asked me if Eminem was bad.  I told him that yes, Eminem songs are pretty bad.  He asked me how.  I told him there was a lot of language, and that Eminem really liked to use lots of F-words.  He asked me, "What's an F-word?"  I changed the subject.

I finally popped in a CD that I had gotten from The Happiest Place in the Mall, one that included Hilary Duff, Aly & AJ and some High School Musical stuff.  Figured that was safe as anything. 

The line of night came when "Hoedown Throwdown" by Miley Cyrus came on... sadly, and I'll admit this to you--I know just about every word to it (and to "G.N.O." that came on later... which I'm guessing that besides me, only Hurricane Rhett would even know that stood for "Girls Night Out", much less know it by heart)... anyway, the song came on and Benjamin said, "Really?  Is this Hannah Montana?"

I replied, "Its Miley Cyrus, yes."

Pause.

"So... why are two guys listening to Hannah Montana?"

Touche.

Summer of Blogging Day Thirteen

Miley Cyrus Does Nirvana’s ‘Smells like Teen Spirit’ During Ecuador Concert – Video

Miley Cyrus sure is growing up.

Once the darling of Disney with her cute smile and famous father, the singer was the classic all American Girl.

Her show “Hannah Montana” portrayed her as a pure and wholesome teen struggling through the life of fame, and her movies are all family orientated and kid friendly.

Well, we all know how that worked out.

She has been seen sliding down a stripper pole, grinding the crotch of her manager, smoking a bong and tripping on salvia, and who can forget the Vanity Fair photos of her and her dad in some unusual family poses.

But Cyrus is a big girl now and is currently on the road with her “Can’t Be Tamed” tour, and last week in Ecuador she paid homage to Curt Kobain and the grunge era by singing “Smells Like Teen Spirit”.

Watch Miles Cyrus Cover Nirvana in Ecuador


Miley said she has a lot of fans ask her who inspired her to become an actress and singer, so she decided to perform songs from people who had inspired her to follow her dreams.

Did you hear that Courtney Love? It’s not too late.

Related: Miley Cyrus Does Justin Bieber on SNL – Video

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Miley Cyrus Does Justin Bieber on SNL – Video

Saturday Night Live scored big last night with guest host Miley Cyrus, in what may go down as one of best shows of the year.

After a good opening monologue where Cyrus belted out a song about how she hit the bong and wasn’t perfect, she partnered with SNL cast member Vanessa Bayer for the “Miley Cyrus Show”.

Bayer did a spot-on impression of Miley, and welcomed her first guest – Justin Bieber, played by Cyrus. It was great.

Miley, as Justin Bieber, parodied Bieber’s hair flip, wink, swag, dress, and finger pointing routines. Cyrus also tells Bieber that she had smoked salvia and he (she) says there isn’t anything wrong with it because it’s legal.

Watch Miley Cyrus Ply Justin Bieber on SNL

Miley Cyrus and Justin Timberlake moving on the same road in one car

Rumors:

Miley Cyrus has been in the state of Florida with Justin Timberlake. Its said that they both are in love and have a strong relationship. Soon they both will break out the news to the world about their relationship. Both of them had previous mishaps with relationships but i guess this time both want to forget the past and live in the present and the future.

Miley Cyrus and Justin Timberlake not only are getting together in real but also they are set to perform a duet which have recorded recently. The duet is a love song and will be aired on radios soon. And its said that its going to hit billboards of usa and UK top 20 with a bang.

Lets see if Miley Cyrus and Justin really come out with flying colors and make strong bond with each other.

Read this as well:

Scarlett Johansson Offered to work in bollywood movie as a Villan

Teen fashion icon Miley Cyrus kicks off Habbo Runway

Habbo Hotel, the world's largest virtual community, has turned into a fashion house, as the Habbo Runway campaign launched with a search for the best Habbo Fashion Designer. The competition will be judged by multi-platinum Hollywood Records' recording artist and teen fashion icon Miley Cyrus, who kicked off the campaign.

Habbo Runway is a global fashion campaign, taking place in all 31 Habbo Hotel communities around the world. A celebration of teen creativity during the four weeks of fashion campaign, millions of Habbo users will be able to participate in various beauty and fashion-related activities. The campaign's highlight is the fashion designer competition, as all Habbo users around the world will have the chance to compete for the title of the Best Habbo Fashion Designer.

After local competition rounds and user voting, Habbo's fabulous celebrity judge, Miley Cyrus, will select and announce the global winner. In addition to fame and fortune in the virtual community, the winner will get his/her winning clothing designs produced and released as Habbo Hotel virtual clothing, available to millions of users around the world. 

More About  Miley Cyrus

The 100 Coolest Things of 2009... 50 to 41

First of all, thank you to everyone who has been visiting here either daily or at least every few days... I know for those of you who could care less about Idol--and let's face it, there hasn't been a lot to care about this season--its rather boring when all you see is idle Idol chatter when you come here looking for Happy Times stories, maybe a movie review, or even a mention or two of He Who Must Not Be Re-Elected's last week or so...  so, thank you.

Secondly... why aren't you a fan on Facebook, eh?  If you are reading this on Facebook, you need to go to Clouds to see any video that might be on the site, then search "Clouds in My Coffee" on Facebook and become a fan.  Its the right thing, nay, the cool thing to do. 

Third, we still aren't done with 2009 yet!  In case you missed it (and since I haven't done one of these in a month, you might have!), here's where we've been thusfar:

The 100th to 91st Coolest Things of 2009
The 90th to 81st Coolest Things of 2009
The 80th to 71st Coolest Things of 2009
The 70th to 61st Coolest Things of 2009
The 60th to 51st Coolest Things of 2009

And here we go with the next ten...

The 50th Coolest Thing of 2009... "Right Round" by Flo Rida
Yes, yes, I know the song is a few years old, and yes, I'd heard it before... but I'd never really taken to it until this year.  This year?  It's kinda catchy.  Silly, a little corny, somewhat stupid, partly annoying and all from a guy who's name is taken from a state with a space in between (I'm guessing "Ken Tucky" and "Oak LaHoma" were on the list.  What about Gior Juh?  Ha!  I got at least 46 more of these), but its use of the term "Benja-min Frank-ah-lins" alone makes me laugh.  Its a good work out song.  Not that I work out, but if I did...

The 49th Coolest Thing of 2009... "Mother Lover"
Well, this is a family show.  I keep it Rated PG, every now and again delving into a PG-13 territory, but for the most part, I keep it clean.  So, for this spot, I won't bother linking to it, I won't put up pictures, I won't do anything but give a nod to K-Dub and then say four words:

1) Mother
2) Lover
3) Timberlake
4) Hysterical

The 48th Coolest Thing of 2009... "The Rise and Fall of the WCW"

When I found out this video was coming out, I almost peed myself.  I was so friggin' excited, as I remember vividly the fabled "Monday Night Wars"--that being the battle between WWE on USA Network and World Championship Wrestling on Turner owned TBS.  I was a huge, huge WCW an, having watched it since 1986 or 87 as a kid, when it was called NWA (National Wrestling Alliance", a few years before WCW).

Anyway, I've always been fascinated by the downfall of the WCW in the late 90s, not just as a wrestling fan, but just from a business prospective.  You know how when someone gets straight zeroes in college (knew a guy) and you say, "Man, he had to work to fail that badly..."?  Well the guys running the WCW seriously had to work to fail this miserably.  This was chronicled in my pick for the 18th Coolest Thing of 2006, the book called "The Death of the WCW", and the DVD here is along the same lines.

Its a 3 Disc collection, with two discs devoted to classic WCW matches including stuff like Ric Flair vs. Magnum T.A. from 1985, the classic Flair vs Steamboat Chi-Town Rumble match from 1989, one of Sting's first matches, that being against Big Van Vader from 1992's Great American Bash, the unintentionally funny Bash at the Beach from 1998 with Diamond Dallas Page and Karl Malone against Hollywood Hogan and Dennis Rodman, a huge War Games match in 1996 with Sting, Lex Luger, Flair, Arn Anderson, Hollywood Hogan, Kevin Nash, Scott Hall and nWo fake Sting.  Yeah, exactly.

Oh, and its got a match from 1998's Halloween Havoc between Diamond Dallas Page and one of my favorite wrestlers ever, Goldberg.  Goldberg absolutely ruled.  Page lost the match after getting hit with a spear AND a jackhammer. 


How 'bout that's Michael Buffer ("leeet's get reeeeeeady to ruuuuuuumbuuuuulllll") in the ring, and Tony Schivione on announcing duties.  Awesome.  By the way, I wanted to do that entrance at my wedding, the one where Goldberg comes out to pyro, and the smoke, and I yell, breath out the smoke, throw the punches and slap myself in the head.  The Lovely Steph Leann said no.  Party pooper.

But the real gem on this disc is the documentary that follows the origins of the WCW, from the beginning with Jim Crockett Promotions to the infamous "Black Saturday".  It took off when Hulk Hogan joined, turning heel (bad guy) for the first time in his career, and the fact that one of the chapters on the DVD menu is titled 'Mistakes Begin', followed by "Vince Russo" says it all.  If there is to be any criticism, it would be on the matches themselves... there should have been a little more surrounding each match, perhaps teh lead up to, and the aftermath, not just from bell-ring to pinfall.  And really, did we need to see a match between Lance Storm and Booker T?  To emphasize how badly things were going for the WCW, they took Booker T, a great wrestler and renamed him "GI Bro".  No kidding.

Great DVD. 

The 47th Coolest Thing of 2009... Lunch With...
It was a good year for reunions.  Lunch with Stan McDuffie in the spring of 2009 was great.  We graduated together, and hadn't seen the guy since the Samson High reunion of 2002.  We met at a BBQ joint in Homewood, and just shared life stories, our pain of what had then-recently happened in Samson and more.  It was awesome.

Not to long after that, I met up with Drew Roe, a fraternity brother of mine who also lives here in town.  That's the crazy thing about Birmingham... I share a city with so many people that I would love to see more of, but never do.  Anyway, we had some lunch, caught up, laughed, did some reminiscing, and had a good time.  Promised each other we'd do it again, and hopefully we will.

Met The Official Clouds In My Coffee High School Crush Julie Wise for dinner last April, and that was an absolute hoot.   Met up with Barrow, one of the coolest guys I've ever met, and the perfect name for one of my characters in the book I might eventually write.  Saw The Official Clouds In My Coffee Troy State Crush Tiffany Abbott at a Chick-fila.  Met with both Dayla Ellison and Rebecca Jourdan Samuelson (we'll get to her later) over lunch, two dear, dear friends that I was so excited to see again. 

This Spring's goal?  To have lunch or dinner with Chris McCall.  I'm planning on heading home for a day or two at the end of April, when The Happiest Place in the Mall is finally The Emptiest Place in the Mall, and I'm going to make it a point to find this guy. 

The 46th Coolest Thing of 2009... "The Princess & the Frog"
There's not much more I could add to what I felt about this movie when I wrote about it in December 2009, so here's some thoughts from that post...

Plot in a nutshell, its a Disney twist on the story of The Frog Prince, the story that has a girl kissing a frog who turns into a handsome prince. In this tale, however, Naveen, the handsome prince, has been turned into a frog by the voo-doo man, Dr. Facilier, and when he convinced our heroine Tiana to kiss him, she turns into a frog herself. Hijinx, hilarity and romance ensue as they, along with Ray the Cajun Firefly and Louis the jazz playing crocodile, try to find Mama Odie to help them turn back into humans again.



The animation is stunning. The film is beautifully drawn, and to its credit, its done so much so that there's no way this film could have been a computer animated feature--it would have lost most, if not all, of its charm. Tiana is a heroine who is working hard for her dreams to happen, not waiting around for someday, her prince will come, and that is to be admired. Much has been made about Tiana being the "first black princess", and yes, that's true, but this film definately takes liberties with history--she's best friends with a rich debutante named Charlotte, which alone is an impractical thought in the time period this film is set in. I didn't get caught up in that, though, and you shouldn't either.


One thing to be aware of when watching this film... you are witnessing the birth of a classic. This is a movie that, no matter how successful it will end up--and it will end up successful--that Campbell Isaiah and Lorelei Addison will watch, and their children will watch as well in 2040 on whatever home video format we're up to then. This is a movie that will be released in Blu-Ray and DVD in April of 2010, and will disappear into The Vault in June of 2011 or so, not to be available for 7 to 10 years.


This is the birth of a true Disney Princess, one that we'll be seeing with the likes of Cinderella, Belle, Ariel and Aurora for a long, long time. The last time we saw a true Disney Princess emerge? Mulan. The last time we saw a true Disney classic not-named-Pixar unfold before our eyes? Yep. "The Lion King". That was the last movie heralded and beloved enough to go into The Vault (well, "Fantasia 2000" also is in The Vault, coupled with "Fantasia", but that's kinda another story)... For me, and perhaps I'm the odd case, this is exciting. I'm thrilled that Disney has finally broken through the ceiling they put on themselves with "Dinosaur" and "Brother Bear".

The 45th Coolest Thing of 2009... JT Wins Survivor

Someone sent me a message last year and said, "Hey, so there's a guy from Samson on Survivor.  Do you know him?"  Up until then, the only notoriety Samson had recieved was the terrible massacre from... well, I'm not going to say his name, he doesn't deserve a mention.  So I did some checking up on Survivor, and what do you know, James Thomas was going to be on the show... James, the little brother of Tammy Thomas, who was a friend of mine in high school and who graduated with me, the same Tammy who scolded me for not snatching up this pretty girl named Stephanie, my friend, who I had brought with me to the 10 year reunion. 

And with the country accent, the sly look and the aww-shucks personality, what the heck--JT won the whole shebang.  Seriously.  Like, holy crap, the kid in whatever elementary school grade when I was a senior won a million bucks on Survivor.  I have his picture in my yearbooks! 

Anyway, it was a fantastic season of Survivor, and I'm excited that JT is on the equally as stellar current season, the Heroes vs Villians Survivor.  And if he wins, or comes close to winning, I'm already planning on going to Samson for the Survivor party this year. 

The 44th Coolest Thing of 2009... "Party in the USA"
Oh shut up. 

The 43th Coolest Thing of 2009... "The Blind Side"
Just like "The Proposal", this is a movie that the more I thought about it, the more I liked it.  I thought "The Blind Side" was great when I walked out of the theater, and somewhere down deep, I knew iI was going to like it more and more as time when on.

Here's what I said in December of 2009 when I reviewed it for the first time:

Its full of laughs and heartwarming moments, but its never preachy or manipulative. The movie's intent it never to make you feel like you have to cry, and it doesn't seem like its showing you the "Hallmark" moments just for the awwwww factor... its part of the story. In movies with this "helping each other out" theme, there's always an uncomfortable moment when the kids hate the new person, only to have this togetherness scene that brings them together--"The Blind Side" never has that. SJ and Collins are nothing but loving and supportive of Michael, and it even enhances Michael's rebuilding of his life.

The movie is excellent... its feel good, its warm, its funny, its everything a family movie should be, one that pokes at you to say "awwww" without demanding you tear up or feel sympathy and guilt. After the movie was over, I leaned over to The Lovely Steph Leann, and in my most politically incorrect tone said, "We should go to Ensley and adopt a black child." She frowned at me, then rolled her eyes and got up to leave. She's good at that.

The 42st Coolest Thing of 2009... Walt Disney World with Ty & The McLeods

Talk about a whirlwind trip... I had a few days on my own, as The Lovely Steph Leann was out of town.  I thought, hey, why not go to Disney World?  The Lovely Steph Leann wasn't too keen on my going all alone, so I recruited The Honorable Rev'rn Ty Sharpton and Tommy Mc and Amy McL to come with (that's us, there, after being soaked in the Backlot Tour)

We left midday, got there at something like 1am, checked in, slept for just a little while, spent the full day at Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios and Epcot, then the next day, walked around Downtown Disney before coming back.  Wow it was fast.  And tons of fun, because Disney is always better with friends.

The 41nd Coolest Thing of 2009... New Shoes
Shoes are those things that you use, but don't realize how good they can be until you find a pair that fits you exactly right.  Thus, this:

During our trip to The Most Magical Place on Earth in June, my feet were getting blistered. The Lovely Steph Leann chalked it up to my Lugz that, while comfortable, were just not made for the walking, standing, running and walking more that we were doing for 14 hours per day, four days in a row--the Skecher tennis shoes weren't doing any better. After watching her to go New Balance and spend over a $110 on a pair of shoes (which, all these years in marriage later is almost still unfathomable), I decided it was finally time to get myself a good pair of sneakers. We discussed it, and, still coming to grips about the fact that I might have to spend that much to fit my wide feet into some comfy shoes, I went to a local shop called The Trak Shak.


The guy there wasn't old... but he knew how to size a foot. I told him what I was looking for--a pair of tennis shoes that could be used for three things--running, walking and if needed, playing tennis, if I ever decided to get my chunky tail up and do something. I told him that my problem was my feet were wide, and it was hard to find a good pair of shoes that I liked. He listened, he asked me to walk around and he told me that he could tell from my walk that I tended to walk inward, probably due to lack of good footwear. Long story short (too late?) I came out with a pair of Nikes that fit... perfectly. What size? 9 1/2. I call them my Trailer Shoes. Why? Cause they are "Double wide".


The whole story can be found here.

Up next... A "Sweet Thing"... Going where no man, save for over a dozen movies and at least three TV shows, have gone before... and later, more Disney... and even more Disney...

Late Night Miley... The Full Idol Coverage

Me, just returning from The Happiest Place in the Mall:  So, The Lovely Steph Leann, how was Idol?
The Lovely Steph Leann:  Eh, it was alright
Me:  So no superstars yet?
The Lovely Steph Leann:  No, not really.

It's been quite a weekend... The Happiest Place in the Mall has been rockin' for weeks now, and this weekend was no different.  Starbucks kept me busy on Friday, and early on Monday and Tuesday (today).  And in all that work, in all that scurrying around, we won't discuss "The Bill".  Yet, anyway.

I've been wanting to blog about my recent trip to The Most Magical Place on Earth, and some of the fun little stories that taking, among others, two special needs children can give you.  But no time.  Of course, there's always Happy Times stories to relate... and still, no chance to share 'em.  And lest anyone forgets, I'm looking for a job in the next few months... so there's that.

And here we are, almost into April, and yet, I'm still 50 spots away from listing the Coolest Things of 2009.  No, I haven't forgotten.  And I"m just warming up for "The Summer of 35", and Clouds in My Coffee's 5th Anniversary.  And still, so little time.

So I've got to discuss all that, and at some point, I need to really spill the guts on this travesty of legislation, that being the Health Care Bill that He Who Must and Will Not Be Re-Elected signed into law earlier today.

My intentions were to come home tonight, say goodnight to The Lovely Steph Leann, who already watched Idol, then come downstairs and watch that same show, and do my little report on it.  That was at 11pm.  Well, here it is at 12:21 in the morning, and what am I watching?  The end of WWE: Raw, where Batista and John Cena have one final face off before WrestleManie XXVI this Sunday! 

Alrighty, Batista talked trash, Cena finally called him on it, they scuffled, "security" came out, Cena and Batista got a few blows in, then while Cena stood in the ring, Batista stormed off to the locker room.   So its 12:27am. 

Let's see how far we can get in thirty minutes, shall we?

THIS


IS AMERICAN IDOL

Tonight, they take on Billboard #1 songs... and guest "mentor" tonight, none other than Hannah Montana herself, Miley Cyrus.  Okay, let's get this admission out of the way first and foremost.   I like Miley Cyrus.  I used to not.  I used to think she was kind of annoying, and yeah, I kinda still do.  Her show is amusing at best, only in certain parts, and straight up, I'm more of a Emily Osment (Haley Joel's sister) fan--downloaded her EP off of iTunes, and its great.  Back to Miley.

The Hannah Montana movie was atrocious.  But the soundtrack?  Not so bad.  "Dream" and "Butterfly Fly Away" stand out on the soundtrack, as does "Hoedown Throwdown".  I also kinda dig on "G.N.O." and "Seven Things." 

You want to have a real theme night challenge?  How about the music of Billy Ray Cyrus?  One person gets "Achy Breaky Heart", and the rest get stuck with "Some Gave All", "Could've Been Me" and "Where'm I Gonna Live".  That would rule.

"Party in the USA"?  I'm addicted to that song.  I think that song is an absolute hoot, hitting every guilty pleasure nerve unlike anything since "Fergalicious".   Personally, and I don't say this because Miley is 17, I just don't think she's all that good looking.  Well, unless you count the "Party in the USA" video, something that conflicts me, because I kinda think that there, and only there, she's kinda hot, but at the same time I almost can't help but think ahead to Lorelei Addison's teenage years, and how if I ever saw her with shorts that short and a top cut that like that--or writhing around a stripper pole atop an ice cream truck (and hopefully, she'll be raised to never actually be in any situation involving a stripper pole AND an ice cream truck, even if it is on a kid's award show), I'd wring her neck--and I'd expect all of you to do the same. 

I will now go call Chris Hansen, admit my guilt, and then smash my face on the nearby halogen lamp.

LEE DEWYZE
Lee D is pulling out "The Letter" by the Box Tops, an old, old classic... "give me a ticket for an aero-plane...".  Its that song.  Miley says its a great song, and I'm guessing the first time she's ever heard this song was when Lee D practiced it for the first time.

As I'm listening to this song, I can't help but think that this song is not a doo-wop song, and not really a jazzy kind of number, but that's what Lee D is doing to it.  The Lovely Steph Leann told me earlier she enjoyed it.

Randy the Dawg loved it.  America's Favorite Lesbian Ellen DeGeneres... well, she kinda rambles a little like Paula.  Kara the New Hotness, a "of-age" Hotness thank you, raves about Lee D.  Simon the Cowell is like the other judges, surprised by the choice of the song.  He enjoyed the sound, but said the song wasn't a good choice.

Its almost 1am.. I'm exhausted... let's continue this tomorrow.  Who did you like, by the way?

Aaaaaaaaaaand we're back.  Its now Wednesday night, its almost 8p, we fired up the DVR and is now ready to watch....

PAIGE MILES
She's going to try to take on "Against All Odds" by Phil Collins, but I'm guessing she's shooting for the Mariah Carey version from a few years back.  Did you know that "Against All Odds" was nominated for an Oscar for the 1984 movie of the same name?  Its notable, not just because its a great song, but its a terrible movie (so sayeth The Lovely Steph Leann"), and also because the Academy didn't ask Phil Collins to perform the song at the show.  Therefore, he sat in the audience as someone else sang it, and gave a frowny face.  Wouldn't you?

Another great... and I use that term loosely... song from a bad movie is "I Just Called To Say I Love You" by Stevie Wonder, from the Gene Wilder film "Woman in Red", also starring a soon-to-be Kelly LeBrock.  Its notable because not only is it Rated PG, but as a PG movie, it features not a topless scene, but an actual bottomless scene.  Not good times if you are 9 watching HBO at 4 in the afternoon and this comes on.

I'm talking about these things to avoid discussing Paige Miles, because she was absolutely terrible.  TERR-IH-BULL.  So bad that America's Favorite Lesbian Ellen DeGeneres told her that she looked great, and then said, "And I'll let Kara the New Hotness and Simon the Cowell critique the music..."

The Lovely Steph Leann warned me this was terrible, and Hurricane Rhett earlier tonight told me to watch out for her.  They were right.

TIM "NOT NEARLY AS TALENTED AS KEITH" URBAN
Tim-may is being coached by Miley Cyrus, who tells him that he rocks. 

He's doing "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" by Queen, another Idol standard.  They should do a theme night called "Songs That Ain't Never Been Done On American Idol", which would eliminate the entire Aretha, Whitney (pre-crack), Mariah (pre- and post-skank) and Kelly Clarkson catalogs.

This song has been done to death alot as well... but I gotta say, Tim-may isn't doing too badly.  I mean, I'm not downloading his song on iTunes tonight, but its survivable.  After Paige Miles, the bar is set pretty low.

Randy the Dawg called it boring.  Ellen DeG said it was an audition for "High School Musical 6" and corny.   Kara the New Hotness called it Zac Efron & "Hairsprayey".  Let me tell ya, that's not a bad thing, because Zac Efron is not only loaded, he gets lots of dates.  Simon the Cowell didn't like it either.   I dug it a little.  Not a lot, but a little.

LIL' AARON KELLY
The Kid has is crushin' on Miley... its kinda funny.  Of course, he is younger than Miley, which makes me feel really old.  And you know what else makes me old?  That most kids now know Billy Ray Cyrus as Miley's Dad, not Achy Breaky Billy Ray.  Go figure.

Seriously?  Is he doing "I Don't Wanna Miss a Thing"?  Sigh.  My stomach, which is already a little quakey from this weekend's almost-illness, just turned a little when he tried for that high note.  Sad to say, but I like Tim-may better.

Randy the Dawg said "Thank God you started singing tonight!".  Ellen DeG said the song choice was perfect.  Its to be known that Aaron Kelly is sick, with tonsilitis, and Kara the New Hotness just raves about how brave he is to sing with his sickness.  Simon the Cowell says the same.

They cut to Miley in the audience, who is sitting by... her mom?  Is that her mom?  Wow, that woman has some choppers.  Reminds me of when Ross got his teeth whitened, combined as when Matt Dillion had the teeth added to impress Mary. 

C'BOSOX
She's doing "Me & Bobby McGee" tonight.  Miley says she loves that song, and I'd be willing to be the only time she's ever heard that song is when Billy Ray plays it on an old record on a random Sunday afternoon at home.

C'Bosox stands, guitar in hand, and if I may interject my own opinion here, Janis Joplin is perfect for her.  Randy the Dawg yells about her being a star.  Ellen DeG shows lots of love.  Kara the New Hotness tells her to let go, and how awesome she is.  Simon the Cowell gushes, making fun of other people as he does. 

BIG MIKE
As the big man comes in, he gives Big Mike a big bear hug, and Miley just fell in love.  He's singing Percy Sledge's "When a Man Loves a Woman"... or maybe he's doing Michael Bolton's version?  We shall see. 

Channeling his inner Ruben Studdard, Big Mike comes out and pours velvet all over the microphone.  Its not a huge risk, really, but Big Mike is singing his kind of song.  Soul.  Smooth.  And I can dig it.

Randy the Dawg said it wasn't perfect, but he liked it lots.  Ellen DeG said it was a safe choice, but she loved it.  Kara the New Hotness said technically it was good, but kinda boring.  Simon the Cowell said the same thing. 

ANDREW "I'M GETTING TOO MUCH MILEAGE FROM A PAULA SONG" GARCIA
Here comes Andy Garcia, trying to work on "Heard It Through the Grapevine" by Marvin Gaye.  Miley is suggesting that he put the guitar down, and sing straight up.  No, not that "Straight Up", he already did that.  And that goose has just about laid its final egg.

He sings it, it sounds 'eh', and Randy, Ellen and Kara the New Hotness didn't like it, and Simon the Cowell actually says "Maybe we overrated that Paula version you did, in hindsight..."  Wow. 

KATIE STEVENS
So, one 17 year old mentors another, and the 17 year old in question, Miley Cyrus, is helping the other, Katie Stevens, with "Big Girls Don't Cry" by Fergie.  Thats the song that says, "I'm gonna miss you like a child misses his blanket...", one of the silliest lines in musical history.

Katie asks Miley how she deals with the negativity out there, and Miley says, "Well first, make sure you don't pole dance on the Kids Choice Awards show, secondly, don't get naked for a 'tasteful' Vanity Fair shoot when you are like, 15, and third, make sure all risque photos of you don't end up on MySpace."  She didn't say that, but she could have.  Should have.

Fergie is at home with her hubby, and yes, after hearing this, big girls do cry.  Fergie is doing it now because of what Katie did to her song.   And yes, Cindy Jo is weeping.  Not that she's a big girl, I meant "big girl" as in "grown up" and... what I meant was... oh, never mind.

Randy the Dawg liked it, while Ellen DeG called her the "dakota fanning" of Americal Idol.  Really?  Kara the New Hotness tells her pop with R&B leanings is her home.  Simon the Cowell, the voice of reason, then speaks unreasonably.  

Seacrest is calling numbers faster, so it must be a time constraint.

CASEY JAMES

CJ has the line of the night, telling Miley, "I'm a big fan... of your dad's."  HA!  That was awesome.  CJ is doing "Power of Love", from Huey Lewis & the News, right outta "Back to the Future."  Great, great song.  Huey Lewis & the News were awesome back in the day... "Jacob's Ladder"... "Hip to Be Square"... "Stuck With You"... "Do You Believe In Love"... rock on, man, rock on.

And rockin' on is what CJ just did.  Awesome.  For me, I think this might be the best, for me, performance from CJ so far, I mean, for me.

Randy the Dawg liked it, Ellen DeG loved it, Kara the New Hotness loved it and Simon the Cowell hated it.  Somewhere, Cindy Jo is drooling. 

DIDI BENAMI
Miley talks to Didi, who is singing "You're No Good" by Linda Rodstant... Ronstant... Ronstadt?  Who cares.  Have'nt liked her in 20 years.  Seacrest just called Didi Banimi... which is a great name.  Go with it, Didi!

Personally, I thought she was great.  I can dig me some Didi. 

Randy the Dawg called it pitchy.  Ellen DeG didn't like the song choice.  Kara the New Hotness said it was over dramatic.  Simon the Cowell said "you singing 'you're no good' was ironic..."  Boo! 

So, what is the problem with the judges?  If the names don't include "Magnus" or "Bowersox", its almost as if they are pre-inclined to not like it. 

SIOBHAN MAGNUS
The Quirky One is singing "Superstitious" by Stevie.  Add him to the list of artists that the catalog has practically been wiped out, for better or for worse.

In the pimp spot, closing out the show, here comes Siobhan Magnus.  I will admit, however, I do like her... she's very likable, very fun, and very, very talented.  Whether I'd buy a CD from her, or download a song she's done remains to be seen. 

She does screech a lot, though.

Randy the Dawg says she's fearless.  Ellen DeG wants more.  Kara the New Hotness loves the expression by her.  Simon the Cowell says the audience might be split, and cautions her about the screeching. 

Here's where I rank 'em... CJ... Big Mike... Didi Benami... Siobhan Magnus... C'Bosox... Lee Dewyze... Tim-may Urban... Katie Stevens...Andy Garcia... Lil Aaron Kelly... Paige Miles 

And now to the results show...

The Top Eleven will get cut to The Top Ten, and this is a big deal, because the Top Eleven do not go on tour.  The Top Ten do.  The Top Eleven do not get paid for endorsement deals and touring and such.  The Top Ten do.  The Top Ten will make a heckuva lot more jack than the Top Eleven.

Seacrest reminds us of The Siobhan Bowersox Memorial Save card, which they may play to save and overturn any elimination as voted on by the American people.

And the group song tonight?  "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" by Wham! is what we get.  The Lovely Steph Leann says, "I thought they were giving up group songs.  Dang."

Fast forward through commercials

Fast forward through the Ford Music Video

Siobhan's followers are in the audience, dressed up with fake blood on their faces, and calls themselves "Siozombies". 

Because Miley is the only one performing tonight, Seacrest is killing time like crazy by talking to the Idols on the couch. 

The Silver Stools of Shame are presented, and now we are up the results.  Siobhan stands up.  She really is like the Chick Adam Lambert (repetitive statement?).  Well, after the vote, she is staying on the show, heading on tour.

Lee Dewyze and CJ stand together.  This usually is bad, though it also usually comes at the end of the row, after four other people are told to sit.  After the nationwide vote?   Not yet.

Tim Urban and Paige Miles stand up together now, before we find out what happened with Lee and CJ... I like this change up on revealing results.   Paige is in the bottom three.  Tim is also in the bottom three.  CJ and Lee are still standing. 

Fast forward through commercials

Next week?  Usher comes to Idol, during the R&B Soul Theme Week. 

Fast forward through Miley singing

Fast forward through Miley talking

Fast forward through Miley still talking

Fast forward through commercials

Seacrest pimping Idol's charity site

Back to the business at hand.  CJ and Lee are safe... apparently, after we went to an earlier commercial, they were told to sit.  Botch.  Epic fail.

Aaron Kelly stands.  The Lovely Steph Leann kinda likes him, I find him kind of annoying.  He's safe. 

Didi Benami stands up.  This is good, which means she probably will be staying.  Seacrest points out that some contestants take a risk and gets praise, and others take a risk and get killed, and Didi agrees, saying, "I don't know what the judges want..."   Seacrest tells her to sit.

Big Mike stands up.  Next to him is C'Bosox, and on the end is Katie Stevens and Andy Garcia.  My guess is that Katie and Andy will stand together, and Katie goes to the Silver Stools of Shame.  Big Mike is safe.  C'Bosox is safe.   And now, Katie and Andy Garcia stand together.  And to the Bottom Three goes Katie Stevens... ha!   The Lovely Steph Leann says, "Oh, he's safe and can go on the tour.  I'm glad we don't go to those concerts."

And going back to the Couch of Comfort is Katie Stevens... The Lovely Steph Leann deadpans, "Yay."

Fast forward through commercials

Did you know that Joe Jonas and Demi Lovato are dating?  They are here to sing a song from the Disney Green movement album, "Friends for Change."  This was called "Make a Wave."   Joe has cut his hair, Demi is wearing a chandelier on her finger.

Fast forward through Joe and Demi singing

Seacrest:  So, Joe, you were in Dallas, and you saw Tim Urban audition!  How do you think things are going?
Joe Jonas:  Well, I guess not so good

Fast forward through commercials

We're back.  Who's going home?  Paige Miles.  That was a foregone conclusion.  The audience is groaning, but probably not because she's been eliminated, or because she is about to sing.   Simon the Cowell just flat out tells her she is going home, even before she performs, as they won't be using the save at all. 

Creed On Idol? And Other Strange Idol Notes...

It's late game, the results are actually going on right now, and as I type this, its 724p on Thursday, and I would imagine that at least one Idol has been kicked off the show.  But I don't know who.  I won't know who... until later tonight... because, by virtue of DVR...

THIS IS AMERICAN

IDOL

Last night, the dudes were onstage, tonight its the chicks... they were supposed to be on last night, but for some unknown reason, Crystal Bowersox was taken to the hospital and told by her doctors to not perform for a night... so, with Idol being the kind, generous folks they are, plus the fact that C'Bosox is one of their early-on favorites, they switched nights (c'mon... do you really think if it had been Ashley Rodriguez who got sick that they would have flipped things around?  Exactly)

So, for tonight, we are going to squeeze in Idol, plus the results show, plus Survivor, and, oh yeah, I have to pack, because while its 7:33p right now (The Lovely Steph Leann, who has already seen both performance shows, had just come in for something... want to mention that in case you think "wow, 9 minutes to type a single paragraph?"), in about 8 hours, I'll be starting up the car to head to Lake Buena Vista, Florida. 

Right off the top, they bring out C'Bosox, without explanation of why she was sick or what happened.  Obviously, she's better.  Here's a question... why am I so drawn to Kara the New Hotness?  I mean, really... perhaps its her sitting next to America's Favorite Lesbian Ellen, sort of like how a blind person has all their other senses more aware, perhaps a lack of Hotness on the judges panel raises Kara the New Hotness' beauty scale.  Sort of like the saying, wanna look skinny, hang out with fat people.  Anyway...

C'Bosox is up first, and her video tells us all about having a twin brother.  I'm assuming he's not identical.  And am I the only one who thinks she has weird teeth?  I mean, we jumped all over Elliott Yah-mean a few seasons ago for this jacked up grill, but are we afraid to admit that C'Bosox has got some funky dental issues?  Just sayin'.

She's doing some CCR, and while last week, she sounded like a good cover artist on Alanis, this week she sounds like a good cover artist on CCR.  I thought it was kinda bluesy, I thought it was cool... Crystal Bowersox did a cool, cool performance.  Rock on.  Randy the Dawg, Ellen DeG, Kara the New Hotness and Simon the Cowell all loved it.

Haeley Vaughn... she's going to be singing Miley Cyrus.  One can only hope she doesn't take on "Party in the USA".  No, no, its "The Climb".  Okay, so is it racist to make fun of the way she looks, just because she's black?  I made fun of C'Bosox, so screw it... I'm not entirely convinced her lips actually come together.  Like, they flashed to her and her mouth was closed, but that may have been digitally enhanced, or she just worked really hard to get it done.  And a few seconds later, they snapped back open.

Didn't like the song when it came out, didn't like it when I heard it every hour, 8 hours a day, five to six days per week, for six months.  Didn't like it when the movie came out and Miley sang it (though Billy Ray Cyrus doing that finger-point thing was the highlight and almost worth a viewing... almost).  And I don't like the song now, especially when Haeley Vaughn is singing it.  The Lovely Steph Leann walked in, heard part of it, and said, "Wow, its worse than it was last night..."

Randy the Dawg didn't like it.  Ellen DeG didn't like it.   Kara the New Hotness tells her that people are rooting for her (who?  I don't know anyone who likes her!).  Then she tells Haeley that she needs another year of voice training... which is crappy, because Angela Martin could be sitting/singing here tonight, while Haeley awaits her turn next year.

By the way, you know you are old when Billy Ray Cyrus is no longer Billy "Achy Breaky" Ray Cyrus, he's just Miley's dad. 

I think that I view Lacey Brown kinda like Democrats view He Who Must Not Be Re-Elected... so young, so brilliant, so full of promise, so much potential.  And epic, epic fail.  I mean big fail.  Falling on your face fail.   At least Lacey is kinda cute. 

Tonight, after Kara the New Hotness' recommendation, she's taking on "Kiss Me" by Sixpence None the Richer.  Man, I loved me some Sixpence back in the day.  And right from the first note, I can tell you that Lacey is NOT Leigh Nash.  By the way, Leigh Nash's first album ranked as the 30th cool thing of 2006... and its even better years later. 

And the song is over, which is what I was stalling for.  It wasn't very good.  It just wasn't.  I wanted it to be, I wanted to be all about some Lacey Brown... Randy the Dawg agreed with me, Ellen DeG liked the song, Kara the New Hotness liked the first half of the song, and Simon the Cowell says it was better than last week, marginally.

Unlike He Who Must Not Be Re-Elected, I want to give Lacey Brown one more chance.  Lacey, I'm in your corner.  And if not, we can vote you out.  Just like He Who Must Not Re-Elected.  Yes we can!

Here comes Katie Stevens, perhaps the most boring Idol name since John Stevens.  And her video shows that... well, she's annoying, but it also shows that she's 17 years old.  She's doing Corinne Bailey Rae, "Put Your Records On".  She might be kind of annoying, but she's a fun annoying.

The song is not bad.  I mean, its not Corinne Bailey Rae, who is pretty darn good, but for a white girl, its a decent version.  Randy the Dawg says, "Yo, so yo, man, dawg, yo, so yo, work it out, yo, man you worked it out, yo dawg" or something to that effect.  Re: he liked it.  Ellen DeG says she has a great voice but wanted more.  Kara the New Hotness tells her she's frustrated, wanting even more from Katie.  Simon the Cowell is also frustrated.

Now, its Didi Benami, who kinda has a My Former Next American Idol Brooke White look about her.  That's a good thing, because I thought My Former Next American Idol Brooke White was a cutie-patootie. (Did I just say "cutie-patootie"?  I'm channeling my inner America's Former Favorite Lesbian Rosie O'Donnell...). 

"Lean on Me" by Bill Withers, and I have a feeling this isn't going to go well.  It never does with this song unless your name is actually Bill Withers, or maybe dcTalk, from the "Free at Last" album, which rocks. 

She's hitting the high, loud notes, and sounds okay, but really, I liked Ingrid Michaelsen's "The Way I Am" much better last week.   Randy the Dawg didn't like the song choice either.  Ellen DeG loves her voice, and her smile and her energy, but didn't like the song.  Kara the New Hotness just flat out says, "Didi... it wasn't good.  It just wasn't good."  Slap up by KTNH... wow.  Simon the Cowell says it was all over the place, screechy and a bad song...

Seacrest comes up to tell her numbers, and Didi keeps smiling... though she's holding her tears back through force, you can tell.  The Lovely Steph Leann actually just went on a rant... "What did you think?  I thought it was pretty good!  I mean, they trashed her!  Like, she was in key, she knew the words, she made it good... I don't get it.  I mean, she wasn't brilliant or anything, but she was a whole lot better than Haeley Vaughn!"  She throws her arms in disgust, "What do they want?!" and goes into the kitchen.  That was kind of fun.

Michelle My Belle is doing... Creed?  CREED?   Holy crap!  Creed?  Creed?  Like, Scott Stapp?  "With Arms Wide Open"?  This is either going to be awesome or a total piece of crap... seldom has The McGriddle Effect had potential on an Idol's performance.  This is historic.

Creed.  Has there ever been a band that was so beloved and popular for a time only to be such a punchline now?  No, besides boy bands, I mean.  Even then, at least Joey McIntyre, Jordan Knight and Timberlake had careers beyond their bands...

Personally, I thought the original was atrocious, and the video was even worse, with Stapp standing on this Irish bluff, singing with... well, arms wide open.  That means that a crying bucket of puppies would sound better than the original, and luckily for me, Michelle My Belle is making the song good.   Great.  That was just great.  The best looking Idol of the season has done the best job of the night...

Randy the Dawg didn't like it, saying "I thought you'd do more with it", making The Wrong Jermaine want to poke sticks in his eyes thinking of what he could have done with it.  Ellen DeG liked the song.  Kara the New Hotness loved it.  Yeah, Kara the New Hotness!  She even says "You almost made the song unrecognizable, which was so cool..." Poor Jermaine Sellers.  Simon the Cowell agrees with Kara the New Hotness, even saying "We do give a lot of contradictory advice..."

Lillyscott comes up next, doing Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come", another very, very risky tune.  She's wearing a shirt that reminds me of a purse that Lil Sister Ashley would use.   As she sings, she almost does the John Mayer "I'm gonna french the mic" singing style, and though the song is extremely hard to do, she's doing it proper justice. 

Despite my own proclivities, I like Lillyscott.  Can't help it.  Randy the Dawg loved it.  Ellen DeG says she has "it".  Kara the New Hotness says she had a "moment".  Simon the Cowell says it was good. 

Katelyn Epperly heard me discussing last week my fondness for Michelle My Belle, and it looks like she's dressed up to compete.  K-Ep looks... well, let's be honest, hot.  That dot in her forehead is kinda weird, but still.  She's singing Coldplay.  Coldplay? 

Okay, fine, Coldplay.  Its "The Scientist" on... piano.  Piano? 

Well, here she is... and she is awesome.  Like, seriously awesome.  And finally, finally, we have our first nomination for My Next American Idol.  Listen, looks have nothing to do with it... last year, My Former Next American Idol was Allison Iraheta, so looks really, really have nothing to do with it... but K-Ep just did a fantastic performance.  She was awesome... sounded great.

Randy liked it.  Ellen DeG says she kinda got sleepy.  Kara the New Hotness says she kinda loves her.  And even winks.  Simon the Cowell says it was a smart choice of song, but must be cautious to not be corny.  Personally, my favorite song of the night.

Paige Miles is kinda like John Park... I have no problem with them.  But they haven't won me over at all.  But I'm willing to give her a chance.  So, Paige, impress me.

Tonight she's singing "Walk Away" by Kelly Clarkson.  Okay, Paige, impress me.

And you know what?  She did.  That was great.  Oh, don't get me wrong, Paige is going to have to go a long way to even think about being d$'s Next American Idol, but its a start.

Randy the Dawg didn't love it, but liked it alot.  Ellen the Lesbian loved it.  Kara the New Hotness, who actually wrote the song, says that the song was written angry, so she should have played into that.  Simon the Cowell liked it, but is afraid she didn't choose the right song. 

And finally, Siobhan Magnus.  Amarylis by Morning (up from San Antone) loved this chick last week, even borderline chiding me for not loving her as much.  This week, she--that being Siobhan, though I'm sure Amarylis by Morning (up from San Antone) could do it just as well--is doing Aretha's "Think". 

The song is such a black diva song that its just weird when I see a skinny white girl do it.  It almost loses something.  And here, it feels like it loses something.  Well, it did until she hit that note at the end and the rafters almost came down... that was a heckuva note, in a good way.

Randy the Dawg says she picked the "dopest, coolest song" and then says, "it was dope!".  Ellen DeG just made a Snuggie joke, which made me laugh at her jokes for the first time this year.  Kara the New Hotness says she can't get over that note.  Simon the Cowell says there were parts of the note that were terrible, but that last note was incredible. 

Here's how it breaks down for me tonight... Katelyn Epperly... Michelle My Belle... C'Bosox... Siobhan Magnus... Paige Miles... Lillyscott... Didi Benami... Katie Stevens... Lacey Brown... Haeley Vaughn

So, if I'm picking the Chick Six right now, I'm easily taking K-Ep, Michelle My Bell, C'Bosox and Lillyscott.  I'm probably taking Didi Benami, and though its a toss up between Siobhan and Paige, I'm going Siobhan tonight, if only to not get chided by Amarylis by Morning (up from San Antone).

Missed Idol Part II (Golden Ticket Parade)

On the road to catching up... for the final show of the audition episodes, its a recap of all stops along the way, including Dallas, Los Angeles, Atlanta and Orlando and more.   So, even though I know we'll have a few crappy ones along the way, hopefully when Ryan says "We're saving the best for last", that means we'll see several faces that will pop up during Hollywood Week.

THIS IS

AMERICAN

IDOL

Once again, recapping the episode from February 3rd, here's the summary...

**Its a recap of "Pants on the Ground", and how viral its become.  Heard the guy that wrote it finally lawyered up so he could get actually get paid--the song has been sung by everyone from Brett Favre to college kids doing a YouTube video.
**Posh Spice is back?  What the crap? 
**Jessica Furney, who auditioned last year in Denver, is back to make it--she didn't make it last time around.  She sounds really good this time around.  Don't know that I'll remember her, but she sounded good.  She makes it.
**"This is my dream!"  "This is my life!"  "I want to inspire people!"  Just thought you'd want to hear the statements that I'd never heard.  You heard it here first.

Commercial break

**Here's a chick who does voices, including this weird "talk with my mouth closed" thing.  Amanda Shectman has a pretty simple voice, and sounds pretty good.  With much tears, she comes out holding a golden ticket.
**Lee Dewyze is busting out one of my Top 25 favorite songs of all time, "Ain't No Sunshine", and doin' awesome.  He's through.  Crystal Bowerman does some Faith Hill and makes it.

Commercial break

**Here's a bunch of people who have auditioned multiple times... last year, four years running, five years running, one chick who has done it 7 times.
**Lacy Brown is just as cute as a button... made the Top 50 last year, lost out to Megan Joy, but is now back to audition again.  I vaguely remember her... she's doing "Over the Rainbow"... she makes it!

"Over the Rainbow" is one of those songs that you and I have always known, or at least known about, but never really listened to much once you got older... but once you finally do, you realize... this is a beautiful, beautfiul song.  Like, I'm totally not gay, but I'm totally into Judy Garland singing this song in "The Wizard of Oz" (as well as her version of "The Trolley Song" from "Meet Me in St. Louis"--both movies on The Dave100).  Here's "Over the Rainbow", and you can watch "The Trolley Song" below.  By the way, this was done in one single take.



Oh, and if you've never heard the late, big and great Israel Kamakawiwo'Ole do "Over the Rainbow", you owe yourself a listen to it... here's that video...



**Stephanie Fisher is doing "Fever", admitting that she has a crush on Posh Spice, and is rubbing her own legs while singing.  Weird.  She wasn't absolutely terrible, but she wasn't that great.  Simon says "Horrible", and then she tries to sing "Baby Love", and yeah, its horrible.  It comes out "Babah lah, my babah lah..."  Diana Ross is sticking a pencil in her eye at this very moment.
**Rachel Hubbard sings for the judges, including Joe Jonas, while Thaddeaus Johnson does the auditions with Doogie Howser.  Genesis Moore sings while Mary J looks on... all three make it through. 

Commercial break

**The 6'8 Adrian "The Big Kahuna" Chandtchi is about to audition.  We know from the teaser before the break that this won't be pretty.  He describes himself as a blossoming "man-flower", and we further know this will end badly.  I want The Lovely Steph Leann to be here to enjoy this with me.  He's going to sing disgrace "Can't Help Falling In Love".
**Big Mike Lynche, who is a personal trainer and is the size of Toni Rocki Honda, is sitting with his woman, and they are going to have themself a baby daughter soon.  Good for them.  He's busting up some "Unchained Melody", which is making Kristen Chenoweth giggle.
**Didi Benami is auditioning in memory of her best friend Rebecca, who passed away a few years back.  Cindy Jo is crying into her hashbrown casserole.  While the bizarre Avril Lavigne looks on, Didi does a jazzy version of "Hey Jude"... that's a song that I didn't care for much, but Didi's version is... well, this is the first time I have said this during any audition episode, but its good enough that I'd consider an iTunes purchase.  Loved that.

Commercial Break

**Oh, after these next few auditioners, stock in Kleenex went up about 45 cents per share due to the amount that Cindy Jo will be using.  Its the backstory montage.
**You got Aaron Kelly, who had family troubles when he was a child.  He sings "The Climb", and actually improves it and makes it bearable. Like Miley's version, I'm sure after a few spins, I'd be tired of that version too, but it was really good. 
**A very big heart and being really into recycling and helping kids in Africa.  That's what Kimberly Bishop says are good reasons to send her through.  She didn't make it.
**Shaddaii Harris has a cute little backstory that makes you think that you'll like her... she looks cute, her mom is supportive, she's got spunk... and as Doogie Howser finds out, she has a terrible, terrible voice. 

Commercial break

**And here's Hope Johnson, a Texas native, who grew up in poverty.  She was so poor, she didn't know she was poor.  She's take food home from her lunch tray at school to give to her brother for dinner.  So what does she sing?  "I Hope You Dance", a song that makes The Lovely Steph Leann just flutter and cry. 

I say that in jest--The Lovely Steph Leann abhorrs that song.  She cannot stand it.  I love me some Lee Ann Womack, especially "I May Hate Myself in the Morning", but I can handle "I Hope You Dance", whereas The Lovely Steph Leann throws up in her mouth a little when it comes on.

This year, 100,000 people showed up to audition, but only 181 have gotten The Golden Ticket to head to Hollywood.

Okay, from this episode I'll remember Didi Benami and Lacey Brown.  This adds to the list of names from previous posts that I remember, which are Seth Rollins... Jermaine Purifoy... Shelby Dressel... Matt Lawrence... Tasha Layton... Andrew Garcia... Todrick Hall... Lloyd Thomas... Maegan Wright... Erica Rhodes... Katie Stevens, That 16 Year Old Maddy chick, Ashley Rodriguez... Luke Sheffer... Mallorie Haley... Vanessa Wolfe... Jermaine Sellers...  Paige Dechausse... Angela Martin and Charity Vance. 

The 100 Coolest Things of 2009... 80 to 71

We continue our countdown of the Coolest Things of 2009... and looking at the next ten, this might be the "Guilty Pleasurest" block of ten in the five year history of The Coolest List.  Not all of them, but some.  Several.  And if you are on Facebook, flip on over to The Clouds and see the blog in its better glory. 

80... Kate Winslet Gets an Oscar
Beyond The Goddess, beyond Amy Adams, whom I'm in love with, a founding member of my own Colin Firth Club that The Lovely Steph Leann keeps tucked away is none other than British actress Kate Winslet.  She'd been nominated six times for an Academy Award, but on Sunday, February 22nd, she finally got hers... in my running diary, I posted this:

1032p... KATE!!! KATE!!! KATE!!! KATE!!! KATE!!! KATE!!! KATE!!! KATE!!! KATE!!! KATE HAS AN OSCAR!!! KATE HAS AN OSCAR!!! KATE HAS AN OSCAR!!!!!! KATE WINSLET WINS AN OSCAR!!!! KATE!!! KATE!!! KATE!!!

1035p... We knew Kate Winslet would win this, but that doesn't make it any less freakin' awesome. KATE KATE KATE!!!

Needless to say, I was excited.  Still am.

79... Pickler's New Album
For anyone who has read this blog longer than a few days, you'll realize a few things.  First, Mama Gilmore is much more attractive than Daughter Gilmore.  Secondly, Hootie & the Blowfish rocks.  Third, I love stupid movies.  Fourth, I eat lots of food.  Fifth, I believe the Dixie Chicks only deserved a small part of what they got.  Sixth, He Who Must Not Be Re-Elected is a one-term president.  Seventh, if back massages were on Facebook, I'd hit the "dislike" button.  Eighth, I will only watch "A Christmas Story" on Christmas Eve, and refuse to buy it.  Ninth, Erin the Marine Wife is to be commended.  Finally, I think Pickles is awesome. 
 
Her first CD, "Small Town Girl", was pretty good for a post-Idol debut, better than even Kat McPhee's decently good CD.  So, when Pickles second album came rollin' out, I went to Best Buy and I bought it.  Yeah, I might be the only person you know that owns a Pickles CD, but hey, I dig it.  Favorite track?  The great, soarin' vocals of "Didn't You Know How Much I Loved You".   I would post a pic of Pickles here, but 1) I'm running out of good pictures to post for Idol blog references, and 2) not enough room for the above picture of Kate and the below picture of...
 
78.. Jon Thompson

One of the four guys I took with me to Walt Disney World (that trip to be ranked later), this dude cracked me up the entire time.  Example... with five guys in a single room with two beds, I had to sleep next to someone.  One of the guys slept on the floor.  And Jon had to sleep with one of them.  The one that Jon had to sleep with decided he would just sleep naked.  Naturally, Jon had a real problem with this... so much so that he leapt out of bed, and started yelling things like, " Why would you do this?  Why!  Why can't you keep your shorts on?  What the crap, dude?"
 
And, being guys, we all turned it around on him--telling him things like, "Settle down, go to bed" and "Seriously, its not a big deal."  Personally, I totally agreed with Jon--who wants to sleep next to a naked guy?  The Lovely Steph Leann doesn't even want that, and I'm her hubby! 
 
He ended up sleeping next to his "bed-mate" who agreed to wear shorts.  Later, I discovered that said bed-mate actually de-shorted during the night and re-shorted before Jon woke up.  I think I laughed for quite a while as all this was going on.
 
He kept the riot going on the way back, marveling at the luck and blessed life of one Tyler Campbell, the bro-in-law, who won a randomly won a car and gave swimming lessons for like, $70 an hour.  Jon?  He worked at a screen printing shop that, after three years, "I'm somehow making less money than when I started!  While I'm on the other side of the tracks, Tyler is over there living in the bourgeois!'.  Course, bourgeois actually means "social middle class".  Who knew.  Jon rocks.
 
77... Hank Azaria in "Night at the Museum:  Battle of the Smithsonian"

Out of all the movies I saw in 2009, I would rank this one somewhere in the middle.  It was good, but it wasn't great.  It had its moments, but like my original review, "...with this movie, you know what you are going to get... lots of historical figures making pop culture references, lots of funny action and Ben Stiller doing what he does best."
 
This movie itself doesn't make our list, but one of the two standout performances does--first, Amy Adams, whom I'm in love with.  Secondly, and more importantly (for this movie, anyway), its Hank Azaria's absolutely hysterical performances.  He "not only plays Kahmunrah to the hilt, leaving you convinced that he had a blast playing this part, but he also does the voice of the Brooklyn-accented Thinker sculpture and of Abe Lincoln, fresh out of the Lincoln Memorial."   His Kahmunrah voice is especially great, slightly feminine and non-threatening, and he makes for the best part of the movie that doesn't include a redhead. 
 
76... The Muppets Do Queen
Kermit, Miss Piggy, Beaker, Dr. Bunson Honeydew and the gang are making a comeback...
 
\
 
...and its awesome
 
75... "Hey" by Mitchell Musso
Uh... a fun song.. makes me kinda bouncy and... uh... its... um...
 
74... "High School Musical"
Um... I saw the movie off and on... we, uh, at The Happiest Place in the Mall we played... and... I really like the them song and... well... uh...
 
73... "The Hoedown Throwdown" by Miley Cyrus
Uh... its... the movie was terrible but this... I like this song and uh...
 
Boom clap, boom de clap de clap, boom boom clap, boom de clap de clap, come on y'all, boom clap boom...
 
Everybody!  Boom de clap de clap...
 
Boom boom clap?  
 
Anyone?
 
(silence)
 
(crickets)
 
Let's move on, shall we?
 
72... ESPN's "30 for 30"
The concept is brilliant, really.  To celebrate ESPN's 30th Anniversary, they brought in 30 different directors and/or directing teams from all walks of life, all lifestyles, all film styles, to direct 30 different sports documentaries on subjects near and dear to their own hearts.
 
The results thus far have been golden.  First up was "King's Ransom", a mildly entertaining film about Gretsky's trade from the Oilers to the Kings, which I never knew was such a monumental, watershed moment for both Gretsky and the NHL... Peter Berg directed.
 
What followed was "Muhammed and Larry", chronicling the fourth bout between Ali and Homes, directed by Albert Maysles... "The Legend of Jimmy the Greek", about the slow rise and quick fall of a commentator legend, directed by Fritz Mitchell... "The Band That Wouldn't Die", an awesome look at the Baltimore Colts marching band that kept playing for over a dozen years after the Colts fled for Indy, directed by famed director Barry Levinson ("Diner", "Good Morning Vietnam", "Rain Man"). 
 
The only one I really didn't like as much was "The U", directed by Billy Corben, scanning the Miami Hurricanes teams of the 80s... it showed the teams, the successes, but didn't really spend too much time into the real issues of the team's problems.  Personally, I wished it would have talked about the crash of the program, not just the rise, but alas, I didn't direct it.
 

 
The two I loved, though?  "Without Bias", directed by Kirk Fraser, about the incredible impact that the death of Len Bias had on the Boston Celtics.  Two days after the NBA Draft, Bias dropped dead of a cocaine overdose, he not only altered our perception of casual drug use and became the tipping point of America's drug crisis in the mid-80s, but he practically ruined an already floundering franchise right as it was about to find a guy who they could build around. 
 
Secondly, "Small Potatoes: Who Really Killed the USFL?", directed by Mike Tollin which showed the success of the USFL, attempting spring football, leaving the NFL in the fall--and they were doing pretty good with it... but it took a dive, due to over-expansion, bad management, and one Donald Trump who bought into the league, and wanted to immediately move it to the fall, taking on the NFL head-to-head.  After a monoply & anti-trust lawsuit against the NFL, the verdict came back in favor of the USFL... in the form of a check for $3.76.  The USFL went belly up.  The documentary is made even better by the interview with Donald Trump, who ends up walking out on Mike Tollin.
 

 
Ahead are films on the legend of Steve Bartman... speedskater Johan Olav Koss... NASCAR driver Tim Richmond and the little disease that killed his career... and even one featuring Michael Jordan's suspension from the NBA for gambl... um, I mean, his retirement for two years to try out baseball.  Oh, and Ice Cube puts his touch on a film about the Raiders.  Good times.
 
71... Read the Rules, Shankapotomus
The Lovely Steph Leann prefers the one where the buddy "flexes the golden pipes", but personally, this is my favorite commercial of the year... 
 

 
Coming up... An Idol goes Kanye... The Best Greek Film of the Year... and later, noddin' my head like yeah, movin' my hips like yeah...