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« American Idol
Episode Recap: The Battle of the Davids Is Here!
Hey everyone! It's Erin Fox, and I can't believe we're down to two contestants. Can you believe it? It's the final "performance" episode of this year's American Idol contest! Time sure does fly when you're watching Seacrest and Cowell spar week after week. The shows actually kind of blur together after a while when you keep hearing Randy say repeatedly, "That was molten hot, Dawg," or "You can sing anything; you can sing the phonebook!"
For those of you who are curious to see what my prediction/wish for who should win Idol is, check out the slideshow on Yahoo! You can see Matt Mitovich on slide No. 1, and yours truly on slide No. 8. How fun is that!?
On to the show! Some announcer guy ("Let's get ready to rumble!") announces David Cook clad in a satin boxer robe and boxing gloves. And if that wasn't ridiculous enough, they put Archie in the same getup, only in blue. If anyone looks out of place in a boxing outfit, it's that kid. I'm talking, like, it's not even cool as a Halloween costume.
Seacrest comes out and asks for the Cook fans (nice screams), and Archie fans (louder screams), but oddly enough, Simon got the most applause. Interesting. Ryan introduces a taped piece that looks like an Olympics montage instead of a singing contest. The boxing metaphor continues ad nauseum. Seriously, are they for real? So now, Archie and Cook finally come out on stage wearing very muted colors. Ryan asks how they feel.... Gee Ry, let's think: I'm guessing relaxed and kinda sleepy. I really want to reach through my TV and noogie that faux-hawk right off of Ryan's head right now... it's been a long season. Ryan asks the judges what it will take to win it all. Randy says, "You gotta bring it all out on the floor!" Paula says, "You're at the Nokia Theater, and everyone is here for you, so soak it up and let the best man win!" Simon says, "You really have to hate your opponent." What a sap. Of course, David A. can only say, "This guy's awesome! (Gee whiz, shucks, golly, gosh!)" David Cook is much more eloquent and says that the competition is over and it's all about fun now.
The video piece is back with Clive Davis and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber providing commentary. Clive has picked the first song for both Davids.
David C., "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Look For:" What can I say? He's
The man! He sounds relaxed, passionate and like he's really enjoying the song. There's definitely a few flat notes, but they are eclipsed by his charisma. He's rockin', and the crowd loves him. Randy says he thinks the performance was a great way to start out 2007. HAHAHAHAHA. 2007??? I think Randy has finally eclipsed Paula in the acting drunk/out-of-it department. Paula says Cook's in "great voice tonight!" And Simon says that he could tell that David was emotional and tense earlier, but that given that, it was fantastic. Yay!
David A., "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me:" OK, I have to admit that I love this song. I always get goose bumps when I hear it on the radio, and Archie's version was no exception. It wasn't quite George Michael caliber, and he was definitely showing some nerves in the early part of the song. But, he really picked it up and rocked the end. Nice work, Archie. Randy says it was flawless and molten hot, Paula says the sun will never go down on him (That's what she said!) and that she got chills, and Simon says that it was his best all season and round one goes to Archie. I'm not sure I agree with that, but it was a great performance. Archie is in tears from all the praise.
Who won Round 1? Vote here.
The second songs were chosen from the songwriters' competition. ALW says he's worried about Cook's raspy voice, and seems to think the lyrics for Archie's song were written by Simon. Heh.
David C., "Dream Big:" He busts out the electric guitar for this one. I think the judges will think it's too shouty, but the tune is really catchy... possibly for more of a Hilary Duff-type. But I love him, and I don't care. He's awesome. Randy says he sang his face off (huh?), Paula says the audience was mesmerized with him, and Simon says it was a lightweight performance and that he's glad there's a third song. Bah humbug.
David A., "In This Moment:" Surprise, surprise, Archie chose a ballad. But, he's a smart little cookie because he's playing to his tween mafia fan base who will swoon. He sounds great in this song, but his right hand movements bug the crap out of me. The judges will dig this one, I can tell. What can I say, Archie's doing very well tonight. I think, better than the rest of the season. Although he does look like he's in pain as he grabs his side. Don't hurt yourself, Archie! Randy wasn't crazy about the song, but "He can sing the phonebook; that was another hot one." Wow, how original. Paula thinks he was fabulous again, it doesn't matter what he sings, and Simon says he chose the better song and that round two also goes to Archie. OK, that one I agree with, begrudgingly.
Who won Round 2? Vote here.
David C. "The World I Know:" Please be good! Please blow us away! Please pick a song that we know! OK, enough begging. He sounds really great, but I'm surprised at how mellow the choice is... I don't think this will be enough for him to "win" the round against Archie's "Imagine." However, I will still say, I would much rather go to a Cook concert than an Archie love-fest. Awwwwwwwwww!!! David C. is crying! I love him! Randy says it was a great song because David showed his sensitive side, and he thinks this would be the perfect kind of record for him to record. Paula gives him a standing ovation because he's singing his truth and brings originality and soul to his performances. Simon says that David is one of the nicest and most sincere contestants that Idol's ever had (he must have forgotten calling his performances arrogant), but it was the wrong song choice. David says this was about progression, so why would he do something he's already done? Well played, Cook.
David A. "Imagine:" Well, no surprises here since we've already heard it. It's a fantastic version of the song, but I think Cook was right. Why do something you've already done? It's kinda the easy way out. Just saying. Randy says he's so good tonight and he's what the show is all about. Paula says he was stunning tonight and left her speechless. Simon thinks he came out to win and we witnessed a knockout. Well, I guess we know who the judges think is the real American Idol. Randy actually flat out says Archie was the best singer in the competition.
Who won Round 3? Vote here.
Oh yes, and how can I forget sweaty Ruben singing us out. Poor guy.
So I'm dying to know, what did you guys think? Do you think Archie gained new leagues of fans, or do you think Cook will win out in the end?
Who deserves to be named the new American Idol? Vote here.
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May 20, 2008 9:57 PM
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Go David Cook!!!! I love him, he is my favorite. The U2 song was great!
David A. has been driving me nuts the past few weeks...I will admit I cried a bit the first time he sang "Imagine"...but tonight, I did nothing but rolled my eyes. I feel terrible, but he is getting annoying and old.
Would it be better if David Cook did not win...then he could do as he pleases with the label that picks him up? Is he thinking the same thing?
All I know is David A's CD is going to be awful. He would do a great Christmas album though...
Go David Cook!
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May 20, 2008 10:08 PM
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I've got to tell you I'm nervous. I'm a big David C. fan, but Randy's enormous man crush aside, David A. out sang him tonight. I hope the whole competition is taken into account and David C. can pull it out, but after tonight, I don't know.
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May 20, 2008 10:11 PM
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Archuletta won the night and should win the competition. I like both David's and going into the night I really didn't care which one won. But Archie sang his butt off tonight and deserves to win. He is by far the best singer, which is what the competition is all about. I'm afraid Cook's popularity may win out over Archie's performances tonight though. If that happens it's a real shame.
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May 20, 2008 10:13 PM
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Why is it that when David A. sings I feel like he IS singing the phone book! BORING! I just knew that he would sing a song that he had previously done.
While I would have loved for David C. to have sang "Hello" or "Billie Jean" again, I have to respect him for not wanting to take the easy way out and sing something that we already know sounds fantastic. But I sure would have liked for him to sing something that would have blown us away (I'm still wishing for "Simple Man")
I am dialing my fingers off for David Cook even though I'm past 40 and it's past my bedtime. I don't think David A. will be able to handle it if he wins..he'll probably faint and cry his eyes out!
I can't type and dial at the same time!
Go David C...you're the Idol to me!
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May 20, 2008 10:21 PM
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Well....
I won't be surprised if the judges get to pat themselves on the back tomorrow night for calling it.
BUT
I'm still sitting here dialing my phone for Cook. 
Truth is, when it comes down to it, I have to ask myself based on tonight, as well as on a full season of work, who would convince me to part with my money in order to take home a CD. Archie is a singer I'd be happy to listen to on the radio as I sit at my desk and try hard not to dance in my chair. Cook is a singer that reside regularly in my CD changer so the kids and I could bop around the living room like crazy people. (Yeah, they like Daughtry too. And Sam Cooke. And the Beatles. What can I say, for almost 6 and 3 years old they have good taste. LOL!)
Truth is while I think Lil' David sang his face off (what the heck is Randy talking about?!), Cook is still the one I prefer. Big-David wasn't the powerhouse ballader that AI finals usually go to though so my personal preference aside, well, I won't be surprised to discover I spent my evening voting for the runner up.
Sigh.
At least they'll both get contracts.
by the way, why does the nice man keep thanking me for voting for contestant #1 when I keep dialing the #3 number. Sometimes one guy says "thanks for voting for contestant #3!" and sometimes I get mr. #1 voice. Yeah, I know, both of them are for Cookie. Oh, and should I read into the fact that I get through more than I don't? Argh! I must confess, I'm more of a watcher without a phone than a watcher that votes. This is all new to me!
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May 20, 2008 10:21 PM
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Are you flippin kidding me!?! I can't believe the love fest the "judges" gave Archie! I smell a rat! I believe the American Idol machine (Clive 'n company) have decided Archie is their choice and told them to heap the praise on him...even though clearly David Cook is the better showman! I've been voting for an hour and a half straight and have not gotten in once! I hope that is a good sign...that America will see thru the crap and vote the real winner thru....DAVID COOK!!!
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May 20, 2008 10:29 PM
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. My. God. Could everyone please crawl out of Archuleta's ass please??? I swear, watching tonight's final was painful. Could they praise Archuleta more and dis Cook more? I'm sorry, but in my opinion, Cook is more entertaining and marketable than Archuleta. Archuleta can sing, yeah, but he's no Cook. Cook is a total performer. He puts new spins on old songs ("Hello" anyone?), can play his own instruments and sing. He totally deserves to win. And if he doesn't, then you absolutely know the fix is in.
And I may be in the minority, and it could be just because I don't like his style of singing, but I think Cook outsung Archuleta. I don't know what the judges are listening to, but the second song (Submitted Songs) I think Cook blew Archuleta away. Of course Archuleta was going to do something slow and BORING. Ugh.
I'm sorry. I've had this horrible hate for Archuleta all season and I don't see why everyone loves him. Him and his corny "hee hee, look at me I'm so innocent!" laugh every time he speaks. His daddy rules his life. It's sad.
Hell, I think Chikeezee should have lasted longer and maybe even wound up in the final.
Go David Cook!
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May 20, 2008 10:38 PM
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I couldn't believe Simon said Cook should have done Billy Jean again. I think he should've gotten props for not resting on previous accomplishments and for trying something new. Archie totally took the easy way out. But of course the judges didn't call him on it, since they seem to think the sun shines out of his...ahem. Well, you know. 
What stinks is I deleted the episode on accident, and didn't take note of the phone numbers, so I can't vote for David C.! I just keep telling myself that even if he doesn't win, he'll still be successful.
I wonder how long it'll take for him to release an album? Not long, I hope!!
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May 20, 2008 10:39 PM
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Could the opening of the show have been any cornier? If that whole wrestling announcer/boxing nonsense had lasted about 30 seconds, that would have been more than enough time wasted. Why couldn't they give the Davids time enough to actually sing complete songs for their final performances instead? Both Davids have done well throughout the competition, but, tonight, the overpraising of David A was a bit much. He's given better performances than these. The dismissive comments from Simon toward David C's performances left our family scratching our heads. His first song had some strained vocal moments, but so did David A's. Overall we thought David C's first song was the stronger. When it came to the second song, David C's song was a better piece of music, and he gave a solid performance. David A's song was nothing special, but he certainly sang his heart out. Still, we thought David C's came off better, and was a song we'd actually want to download. As David C sang his last song, we expected exactly the reaction he got; it wasn't exciting enough for Simon. But it was still a nicely rendered performance, and we already know he can rock; he sang something he enjoyed. Unfortunately, to get the judges' love, he needed to rock the house hard at that point. We've already heard David A sing Imagine, and it was fine, but didn't sound any more special to us than the previous time, despite the judges' salivating. Simon chastized David C for not singing something from an earlier show, but I think if he had done a song he'd already performed, Simon would have said he was being lazy and not living up to being an Idol. But I guess it doesn't really matter what the judges say. It'll be the votes that count.
Good luck, Davids.
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May 20, 2008 10:42 PM
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I'm sorry, but David Cook is just better than Archie & D.C. should be the next American Idol. 60 votes & counting...
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May 20, 2008 10:43 PM
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I thought the finale was good - really good. There have only been two finales, imo, where the talent level has been totally disproportionate. Kelli and Justin and Fantasia and Diana. (ok, after last week I am ready to change my mind on that one but at the time...) Every other year the talent has been comparable and it came down to personal taste. I think this year will be the same. David A was fantastic. He hit every song - I don't care that he's done Imagine before, it remains my favorite song of the season. Even the horrible sappy Idol song was ok. David C was wonderful - I cried during "The World I Know"...his brother was in the audience and for all of us who have lost someone can't you just totally relate to the emotion he must have been feeling about the world he knows falling apart yet changing for the better at the same time? Amazing, IMO. I LOVE his first song & I loved his arrangement but I do think it wasn't as technically difficult as David A's. Do I care? No - just sayin'. His horrible sappy middle song wasn't bad - I'd listen on the radio although I wouldn't buy it. (and not that this is David A's fault but does every Idol winner song HAVE to say "in this moment"?)
Anyway, I voted for David C but I honestly wish them both the best - they both deserve to be in this round and it was a good competition tonight.
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May 20, 2008 11:09 PM
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Vote for me StarMesa! I've been dialing for 2 hours and can't get thru!!!
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May 20, 2008 11:10 PM
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David Cook
"I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For"-It was ok...
"Dream Big"- It was better than the first...
"The World I Know"-His best tonight by far; I liked it a lot...
David Archuleta
"Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me"-Loved it.
"In This Moment"- Loved it.
"Imagine"-Loved it.
I really like both Cook and Archuleta. Cook was a little off tonight; none except the last were A-game material. While Archuleta, IMO, stepped it up tonight.
I don't know...there's just something about Archuleta's voice that makes you listen intently to every word. When Cook sings, I can't understand half of what he's singing.
As for the judges, I don't know whether they're staged or not. So I don't care too much about what they say. They could be declaring Archuleta the winner because they don't want any Cook fans to neglect voting. They could be declaring him winner because they really want him to win; Cook would have a better career without the AI contract. They could be declaring him winner because they believe he sang the best tonight.
They are both really nice guys and both have a lot of talent...as Paula said, "may the best man win!"
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May 20, 2008 11:15 PM
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I just don't get these judges. David A is the same week after week but they always praise him as if he was the second coming. I thought DC was awesome tonight and he always sings with such passion!
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May 20, 2008 11:18 PM
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