girls rock !!

New York City & San Juan were the last two stops on the American Idol auditions tour. As usual, there was plenty of talent on display - even if a King Kong moment had the judges somewhat alarmed.

To prove her commitment, Adeola Adegoke gave up her job. The judges were honest when saying her voice was not good enough, and took pity on her situation. To such an extent that Simon Cowell even spoke with her boss to get Adeola’s job back.

In contrast, Jessika Baier (photo 1) already pays her way from taking part in 700 singing contests so far, and has been successful enough to pay for travel, her car, her guitar and to follow her dream. Singing I Surrender by Celine Dion was a big risk and failed to impress.The constructive criticism from the judges seemed to be ignored, and by quite a few others as well. This season of Idol again proves how tough the music business can be.

The Age of Aquarius seems to have returned with the positivity and huge smile of Melinda Camille (photo 2), and her version of Feelin’ Good was enough to give all the judges a “4 Yes” vibe.

Singing I’m Yours by Jason Mraz was not quite enough to convince the judges that 27-year-old Jackie Tohn (photo 3) should progress, so then this “unpredictable and surprising” (Paula) contestant sang country style to gain the votes. “I liked the husky tone” (Randy) and “I want to hear what else you can do” (Kara) led to the sun screen crashing down behind the judges. Suddenly there were 4 votes for Jackie. What next?

Bringing along her little brother proved an advantage for 16-year-old Monique Garcia Torres (photo 4) and singing You Can’t Hurry Love showed a strong and sweet voice. But the attempt at I Turn To You by Christina Aguilera gave some judges a concern. Randy and Kara thought Monique should wait another year. Paula said yes, however, and Simon was so impressed by the confidence of the 10-year-old brother he used his casting vote for a Hollywood ticket.

When Patricia Lewis Roman (photo 5) sang I Wanna Dance With Somebody, the judges were unsure. Their advice was not to sing such a huge song as you are always going to come off second best. Then she sang something sweeter and got the votes.

Overall, then, a curious round of auditions which should make Hollywood interesting - at the very least. One large question is what the judges will decide during the elimination rounds in Hollywood. There appear to be a large percentage of very talented singers this year, so the decisions will not be easy.

And we expect big contests between the judges as well - what are the bets on battle lines being drawn between girls v boys ?!?!?

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