Help Jerry's Kids

Was it just me or was American Idol’s telecast last night a horrendous rendition of a Jerry Lewis telethon? Remember the ghastly yet entertaining marathons of zany comedians, boozy host, juggling acrobats and polyester clad singing groups. Update the clothes and add some John Mayer music and you have Idol Gives Back, awkward pandering segments that placed Simon and Ryan in Africa, Randy in Louisiana and Paula in Atlanta. The most sincere person was Simon. He was truly appalled by the living conditions in Africa and inspired by the LA food bank. I couldn’t help but wish he’d break a piece off his fat cat paycheck for these causes.

To add salt to the wound, the contestants were asked to sing inspirational songs. Puleeze! Not only was the hour-long show padded with tear-inducing images of poor hungry children, we had to hear Kiki shriek through her “inspirational” song.

Here’s the run down:

Chris- Change the World

Not quite sure how this is an inspirational song and not a love song but Justin Timberfake belted it like he was changing the world. He still didn’t connect with me but the judges praised his weak attempt.

Melinda-There Will Come a Day

Not familiar with the song but she sang the hell out of it. Gave it a gospel quality. It wasn’t my favorite performance of hers but still leagues above the rest.

Blake-Imagine

This was the most hollow, uninspired version of Imagine I’ve ever heard. He was concentrating so hard on hitting the notes that he didn’t beat box or moon walk.

LaKisha-I Believe

Honey, never take on a Fantasia song. She performs from the top of her head to the bottomof her toes. She’s a young Patti LaBelle. Kiki’s lack of range is weighing on all of us. She will be leaving us soon.

Phil-The Change

Another week and he hasn’t sucked that bad. Still not showing much emotion but his vocals have greatly improved. He may have bought himself another week.

Jordin-You’ll Never Walk Alone

It started off very hokey but she brought it home with great emotion and power. She brought herself to tears and had me a bit weepy. Best performance of the night.

The bottom three will be Kiki, Blake and Chris.

Who do you think will go home?