But, Icecold, thank you for sending this beautiful version of “Yesterday” by Donny Hathaway. It is a deeply moving rendition of this song and it really encourages the listener to hear the words of this gorgeous lyric.

This man knows how to communicate and move his audience to greater heights, more so than the original artists – and that’s saying a lot.

And his voice is such a wonderful instrument – so free and, like you said, so pure.

Thanks again. It soothed my frazzled nerves while waiting at the airport.

I am not sure if you are familiar with his work. but Donny Hathaway has been cited several times by many idol hopefuls and many professional singers as inspiration. I know you are on vacation (hope you have a great time) but Donny recorded a live version of the Beatles Yesterday.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15z3yh_Ggq8

I would love to hear your critique on this version. IMO it is by far one of the most moving vocals I have ever heard. I think he has the most pure voice in music history(across all genres). But I would like to get a professional opinion? What say you?

I hope that David is receiving a plentiful supply of love and positive reinforcement to counter-balance the venom coming from his “father’s” selfish attitude.

This is child abuse everyone. And I am a HUGE child abuse advocate.

http://www.tmz.com/2008/03/19/jeff-archuleta-stage-dad-from-hell/

http://guanabee.com/2008/03/portrait-of-a-stage-dad-jeff-a.php Be sure to read the comments in order … by the end I’m ready to apologize to David’s Dad, then I read the last one (March 22 by ArtGrrl) and that one rings true. Poor kid.

Wadahoot – you are a hoot! Thanks for adding your creative comments. I agree with so many of them and they made me laugh.

Except David A. – It upsets me that he is under so much pressure. I feel for the kid. I wish he could be loved just for being David, you know? Maybe these are all rumours.

David Cook – I think he’s prematurely balding and his hair is a young person’s combover … I doubt it’s gonna change!

David A. – from what I’ve read, his Dad is a “Stage Mom” x 100. He yells at the poor kid right before the show at the last rehersal … no wonder David messed up last week and why he looks like he’s gonna’ cry when he gets his reviews.

Michael & Carly have a few of the same strikes against them (no matter if I think they are stupid!). 1) they are not Americans … this IS American Idol; 2) they are both older, so the teeny-bops don’t connect; 3) they are both married, so it’s hard to count them as you Reality TV Boy/Girlfriend!

Ramielle – there’s just something about her that seems ‘off’ … like I’m expecting some big internet blowup with porn or an arrest! Weird, I know, but she just seems kinda slimy to me (sorry!).

Chikezie – is adorable, fun and trying SO very hard. I wish people would be patient and let him find himself … I think we’d really like who he finds!

Amanda – What was America thinking?! Thinking … ? Oh, they weren’t! WHO on God’s Green Earth wants to see Kristy Lee on tour instead of Amanda?! Is Amanda great? Nope, but I bet she’d be FUN! Is Krisy Lee … ummm … anything? Nope. Arrrgh!

Kristy Lee – (pages purposefully left blank, because she is)

Syesha – Introduce yourself, Girlfriend! Let us know who YOU are! I want to like her, a lot, but she’s still a bit of an empty canvas to me.

Brooke – I adore Brooke! I would have loved to have been able to afford a nanny like her for my son when he was growing up! I think her biggest problem is that she’s only 24. She comes across so much older and mature, but then glimpses of her lack of maturity smack one in the face and people don’t realize she’s so young!

Uh-oh … I TOTALLY forgot Jason! That CAN’T be good for him! He needs to take the whole thing more seriously. It’s like Novoicenow said about Carly/Michael … they seem to drip desperation … but Jason doesn’t seem to connect to the reality of the show … he just tootles around and sings and throws in thoughts and motion if he happens to think about it. Jason my boy, you have an amazing, unique opportunity right now, and I feel you’re squandering it completely.

Thanks for letting me spill my thoughts!
Anita ~ Indianapolis

I’m happy that I will be back when the mentors start working with the Idols -unless Mariah is there next week? Not sure. But I did not want to miss Andreww lLoyd Webber.

Katherine – I love that your comment about David A. and I should have added this into my critique. He has performed some upbeat songs, but you are correct. He needs to have fun on stage and connect in a way that highlights his youthfulness. Good call!

That being said, David A., David C., Michael, Carly, and Chikezie gave good performances. Ramiele lacked an emotional connection, as did Kristy Lee and perhaps, Amanda. MCL, I just don’t get Syesha as much as you do!

If both Davids can show us a flip side of their performing personalities, the audience will be blown away. David A. needs to bring a youthful energy and joy to an uptune. David C. needs to bring the raw passion to a ballad that makes us see a vulnerable side to his persona.

What?! You’re going on VACATION? You’re not going to do a Top 10 Masterclass article? The nerve…just kidding! Have a great time in Florida- don’t forget the sunscreen!