Claymates, Where Are You?

My hero Denise keeps asking me what the Claymates are saying about the report that Clay is going to be a father.

And I keep telling her the same thing—They’re not saying anything.

The Clay bashers, however, are saying plenty, including jokes about his sexuality and comparing him to Michael Jackson.

Which is my problem with this whole thing to start with. If this is true—which “People” says it has confirmed—why tell anyone? Maybe Clay doesn’t care what people say about him, but what about the child? What kind of ridicule will he or she have to endure?

It’s just sad that at a time when people should be talking about Clay’s fantastic CD, all anyone can talk about is this.

So since we have to talk about it, tell me what you think.

Is this totally sick or is it just a wonderful gesture of friendship?

And Claymates, where are you? Speak up!

Elliott Feels the Love From Disney

Elliott Yamin has apparently made a Disney connection…

Elliott recorded a version of “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” for “Disneymania 6,” which is available now.

The “Disneymania” series features Disney-related stars singing covers of Disney songs. “Disneymania 6” also features Billy Ray Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers, and Jordan Pruitt.

Elliott’s “Wait For You” was featured on “Radio Disney Jams, Vol. 10.”

You can hear Elliott’s excellent version of “Love” here.

The Davids Sing the Phonebook

Several times during the competition, Randy Jackson trotted out the phrase “You could sing the phonebook.”

So, MTV’s “TRL” decided to put that to the test when the Davids came on the show. You can see it here.



I’m still amazed how gamely Cook plays along with everything…

Cook Imitates Nigel

David Cook appeared on “The Early Show” Friday morning (The appearance was taped Thursday after his “Today” appearance.).

When answering the question about who he thought was going to win for the millionth time, David broke out an impersonation of “Idol” EP Nigel Lythgoe. And it’s pretty good.

You can see it and his performance of “The Time of My Life”—complete with a totally awkward moment with a female fan—here.

Is Another Idol Coming to the Paramount?

Hot on the heels of the announcement that Kellie Pickler is coming to Ashland, I’m hearing rumors that another Idol may be taking the Paramount stage.

And this one was a winner…

I should know more in the next few weeks…

The Davids on "Today"

The Davids appeared on “Today” this morning…

Here’s Matt and Meredith interviewing the two of them, who both defend Jeff…



Here’s Matt’s interview with Archie followed by his performance of “Think of Me”…



And here’s Meredith asking Cook about “Cougars for Cook” and his performance of “The Time of My Life”…

Cook on "The Early Show"

David Cook will continue his post-“Idol” promotional tour tomorrow (Friday) morning on “The Early Show.”

David Archuleta appeared on “Early” this morning.

“The Early Show” airs from 7-9 a.m. on CBS…

Will Josiah Have the Last Laugh?

Remember Josiah Leming, the contestant who did not make the top 24 after he dismissed the band for his frightening rendition of “Stand By Me”?

He has now been signed to Warner Bros. Records…

Josiah is currently working on his album which he hopes to have completed by the end of the year because his mother has terminal cancer.

According to USAToday.com, Josiah has also signed a publishing deal with Warner Bros. which means other artists could record his songs as well.

During a recent visit to MTV, Josiah performed a song that’s so new it didn’t make it to the CD tracklist. You can hear it here.

I’m really not sure what to say about this one, so I’ll leave the commentary up to you…

Has Lyric Street's Luck Run Out?

I was afraid of this one…

An article on CMT.com reports that Phil Stacey has sold just over 25,000 copies of his album in its first month.

Josh Gracin has sold only 45,000 in two months.

And Bucky Covington, who started out like gangbusters, has only sold 345,000.

You know that I think all three albums are solid, but I was concerned that Phil might be received as more of the same. Plus, I have to wonder if Phil’s image just doesn’t work. That somewhat ghoulish album cover doesn’t really help that much…

And clearly the problem with Josh Gracin is that there was just too much of a break between CDs. He had lots of momentum after “Nothing to Lose” hit #1, but the break gave people time to forget about him…

As for Bucky, I think he could just be a victim of more of the same as well. Plus, I don’t think he’s really had the best single selection.

Now all of this could be turned around—especially if they would release Josh’s “Found,” but I fear that Lyric Street has signed its last male “Idol” contestant…

Photo provided by Lyric Street Records

Melinda Gives Back

Melinda Doolittle will be part of a high-profile delegation to the Leon H. Sullivan Summit VIII June 2nd-6th.

The summit, which is meant to “focus attention and resources on Africa’s economic and social development,” will take place in Arusha, Tanzania.

Melinda was chosen for the honor by President Bush.

A week later, Melinda will be the MC for the 4th annual “Ellie’s Run for Africans” in Nashville.

The run is a family day that raises money for education and health-related assistance in Kenya and South Africa…

Info courtesy of MJ’s Big Blog and the Sullivan Foundation...

Nigel Talks About Kellie's "Growth"

“Idol” EP Nigel Lythgoe got himself into a little trouble last week when he spoke about Kellie Pickler’s “growth”…

He told reporters, “She’s acquired two accoutrements that photographers and men love. I’m not sure what it cost her, but obviously it was well worth it.”

The comment was in response to a question about the attention Kellie attracted at the Academy of Country Music Awards.

Kellie has never confirmed having any work done, but last week she did hint a little to FOX News. “It’s been two years since my first record came out…but I’ve been growing a lot—in many more ways than one,” she said while motioning to her chest. “Let’s just say I feel much more mature now.”

You can judge for yourself when Kellie comes to the Paramount Arts Center July 11th at 8 p.m…

Get Ready to Cook This Fall

It’s official. David Cook has been signed to 19 Recordings/RCA Records and will record his debut album while on the road with the Idols tour.

“Variety” reports the CD will be released in the fall. October had been the traditional month for “Idol” winners to release an album, but Taylor and Jordin released theirs in November and December (and we know how that worked out). A return to fall makes more sense because it will come on the heels of the tour.

By the way, you may recall that Jordin had an all-time low for an “Idol” winner when her CD sold only 119,000 in its first week. But her total now is 778,000 copies, passing Taylor Hicks’ sales total…

Sanjaya's Commercial: A First Look

Thanks to the fine folks at Nationwide, here's our first look at Sanjaya's commercial...







Here's another shot of Sanjaya on the set...

UPDATE: A Nationwide rep tells me the commercial will debut in mid-Summer.

Photos provided by Nationwide

Is Clay Going to Be a Father?

This is one of the craziest stories I have ever heard related to “Idol” and BOY do I hope it’s not true…

TMZ is reporting that Clay Aiken is going to be a father.

The website says that “multiple sources” tell them the mother is Jaymes Foster, who they say is Clay’s best friend who he lives with when he’s in L.A. But according to TMZ, Foster, who is David Foster’s sister, was artificially inseminated. However, their sources tell them that Clay “will have an active role in raising the child.”

Foster, by the way, is 50 and Clay is 29. She is divorced and has no children.

None of this has been confirmed by Clay’s people.

So this probably wouldn’t be the first time that a single woman reached out to a friend to give her a child, but there’s just something so creepy about the whole thing. And you know this is only going to fuel those stories about Clay’s sexuality.

I was really hoping that this new album would get Clay’s career back on track, but now…

What's Blake's Problem?

If you read Jim’s comments on my post about Sanjaya’s Nationwide ad, then you know he’s pretty angry at Blake Lewis for dissing Sanjaya and Taylor Hicks.

So, I decided to go in search of the interview that Jim alludes to, and I found it.

You can hear this snippet of Blake’s interview with Mark Kaye back in March here.



Now, let me start by saying I completely understand why Jim would be upset. I would be too if someone had just dissed my favorite contestants. However, I think we should also look at the big picture…

What I hear in this interview is a frustrated young man who’s just trying to promote his CD—since his record company won’t—and all any of these DJs want to talk about is Sanjaya. Does that excuse what he said? No. But the frustration is understandable—especially if what Blake says about Nigel putting Sanjaya on the show after he was eliminated is true.

And how do we know that Blake’s not just saying this stuff to get attention?...

In an interview with another radio station (that was not identified on the blog with the interview), Blake said that Sanjaya was “a nice kid” but he did get into it with him once during the tour because he was trying to sleep and Sanjaya kept waking him up. Blake told the DJ that Sanjaya had trouble respecting peoples’ boundaries and that he was a “disrespectful kid.”

However, at the end of the tour, Sanjaya thanked Blake for the way he treated him. Blake said Sanjaya had never had a father figure and so he just needed someone to set him straight.

As for Taylor Hicks, Mark Kaye says on his website that Blake said about Taylor, “America voted …for a d-bag!”

That one I can’t really defend, except for the fact that since there is no audio, we have no idea what the context of the conversation was. And we know that Taylor was considered difficult by his label, so maybe that’s where that comes from.

Either way, I just wish that someone would keep Blake from digging these big holes for himself. He’s an extremely talented guy who should be above this stuff.

And maybe that’s the problem. Maybe he has always felt like he is above “American Idol.”

Now I don’t feel so guilty for moving him aside for David Cook on my top five Idols list…

Cook Sets Chart Records and Hits #1

David Cook sets a record for debut entries on this week’s Billboard Hot 100 chart with 11 songs.

Cook has 14 songs on the Hot Digital Songs chart, including the #1 track, “The Time of My Life,” which sold a whopping 236,000 downloads.

‘Time” debuts at a strong #3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The previous record for most debut entries on the Hot 100 was six set by Miley Cyrus as Hannah Montana. He also breaks Miley’s record of eight on the Digital Songs Chart.

It’s also the most tracks on the Hot 100 chart since the Beatles had 14 songs in one week.

David Archuleta has three songs on both charts, including “Imagine,” which sold 71,000 downloads.

This is the first week that “Idol” downloads have counted toward the charts since the producers and iTunes agreed not to share the numbers over concern it would affect the voting.

“Billboard” reports that Cook’s album will be on 19/RCA…

Sanjaya Goes Nationwide

Jim, this one’s for you…

Nationwide announced yesterday that Sanjaya Malakar will be the newest star of its “Life Comes At You Fast” ad campaign.

According to Nationwide’s press release, in the spot, Sanjaya visits a monastery in India to seek advice and he is told that he needs a retirement plan, and some work on his hair.

The Sanjaya ad is one of six new spots that will specifically target the South Asian market, according to the release.

Sanjaya was quoted in the release, saying, “I’m thrilled to star in one of Nationwide’s ‘Life Comes at You Fast’ ads, because I really love the campaign. My experience on ‘American Idol’ is a great example of how life really does come at you fast. The ad is a funny take on the serious subject of planning for retirement.”

You may remember that Kevin Federline was the most recent star of the campaign in a great ad that didn’t really receive the kudos it deserved until people learned that K-Fed was actually a good guy…

You can see it here as a reminder…

A "Today" Reminder...

Don’t forget that the two Davids are scheduled to appear on “Today” tomorrow (Thursday) morning.

“Today” airs 7-9 a.m. on NBC. Be sure to check your local listings for when the fourth hour airs in your area (It airs at 2 p.m. on WSAZ.)…

Cook on Ellen

David Cook also appeared on “Ellen” yesterday and there was thankfully no mention of Kimberly Caldwell, who was the subject of most of the “Idol” Internet buzz yesterday…

And by the way, most people agree with me on that whole subject. I really hope that David didn’t just torpedo his career by alienating his female fan base. I still love him. I’m just kind of sad…

You can see Ellen’s interview with David and his performance of “The World I Know” here…

Cook and Caldwell?!

What could possibly make me lose a little love for David Cook?

Finding out he’s dating Kimberly Caldwell…

You guys know that I can’t even watch the listings on TV Guide Channel half the time because she annoys me SO much, so to find out David went out with her makes me want to cry a little.

Now granted, they’ve only gone out once (last week), but David told Regis and Kelly that they’ll “probably hang out again.” They, of course, met through the show (Kimberly is the co-host of “Idol Tonight.”)

I guess the big question is why David admitted that on national TV. Doesn’t he know how much buzz that’s going to get? And doesn’t he know that will upset some fans that want him to be eternally single—especially the cougars?

Wait, I think I just answered my own question…

You can see David’s entire interview on “Live with Regis and Kelly,” as well as his performance of “The Time of My Life” here…

Happy Memorial Day!

Now, ladies and gentlemen, I am going to take what I consider a much-deserved break…

But I will leave you with another look at the crowning of our new American Idol, and his winning performance, which is now available as a single on iTunes...



Have a safe and happy Memorial Day!

David's Journey Through My Eyes...

Yesterday, sites all over the Internet were tracing Cook’s “Idol” journey…

I thought it would be fun to trace his journey through my eyes, by looking at how I judged him each week.

And after looking back, I’m a little surprised at how hard I was on him in the beginning…

January 29th…

I thought Omaha seemed like a possibly boring choice, but I didn’t want
to pre-judge.But after watching, I think I was right.There were some interesting
moments, and some strange moments, but nothing terribly entertaining…Anyone else
sensing a pattern here?Here are my thoughts…

I thought David (“Livin’ On a Prayer”) said he was a rocker. That was
really pretty and that sweater looked more like Blake than Chris
Daughtry…

February 19th…

Are we ready?

Scoring sheet…check!

Red clipboard…check!

Blank tape in the VCR…check!

Computer on…check!

Hot guy I’m hoping can actually sing…okay, I’m still working on that
one.

But other than that, we’re good to go!

I think I found my hot guy…

David Cook, “So Happy Together”: 17
I like David, but for me this was a bit of a bad Constantine Maroulis
impersonation. And what was up with that weird ending?

February 26th…

David Cook, “Alright Now”: 18
It’s clear that David uses his guitar as a little bit of a crutch because
he really has no charisma. But the vocal was solid, even if the guitar was a
little loud. But his swipe at Simon was completely uncalled for

.

No charisma? Now, I feel like I should apologize to David…

March 4th…

David Cook, “Hello”: 19
I really liked that arrangement (Could someone tell me whether he really
came up with that or if he was just copying someone else?). I took one point off
for that little bit of a scream that didn’t quite work. And apparently Simon has
no hard feelings about David’s attitude last week.

19? See what I mean about being harsh? In my defense, this was the first night we really got to see the real David…

But I wasn’t done being mean…

March 5th…

David Cook is getting a lot of praise this morning for his cover of Lionel
Richie's "Hello," but as I suspected, it was not an original
arrangement...Thanks to Wikipedia and YouTube, I have discovered that David was
actually doing the Incubus version of the song.That's not to say the performance
wasn't good or that he shouldn't make the top 12. He just shouldn't get credit
for being completely original...

March 11th…

David Cook, “Eleanor Rigby”: 18
I liked the arrangement, but his vocals weren’t completely on throughout.
And I hate his screaming. I liked how Simon said if the show remained a “talent”
contest and not a “popularity” one that David could win. Is Simon losing faith
in David Archuleta because of the slight backlash he’s been getting?…

UPDATE: A quick check of YouTube shows that David's arrangement comes from
Panic! at the Disco. That doesn't mean I like it any less, I just want to be
factual.

I've become such a skeptic, haven't I? I never checked YouTube for Blake's
arrangements last year...

March 18th…

David Cook, “Daytripper”: 19
First of all, let me thank David for telling me whose version he was doing
so I didn’t have to search it out (Whitesnake, if you missed it.). The only
thing I didn’t like about the song was the backup singers. I would’ve nixed
them. And notice that he didn’t take issue with Simon. He’s learned his lesson
there. And believe it or not, I liked the vocoder...

Now we’re getting somewhere…

March 25th…

David Cook, “Billie Jean”: 20+
I told you that David would rock out some obscure cover for us and boy, did
he ever (Chris Cornell, by the way. Thanks, Ryan, for telling me so I didn’t
have to look it up.). That was awesome. Since I already gave Michael a 20, I had
to add the plus since this performance was worlds better. However, I have to
disagree with Randy saying that David is the most original contestant ever. That
would still be Blake. Remember he came up with his own arrangements. David is
copying others—which is brave and creative, but not original.

You can see my opinion turning this particular week, when I defended Cook against Doxology who were upset that David didn’t credit their version of “Eleanor Rigby”…

April 1st…

As I said last week, David is not the most original “Idol” contestant of
all time, but David never claimed to be. That was Randy’s doing and if Randy
isn’t smart enough to figure out that David is not coming up with the
arrangements himself—even with Ryan telling him—that’s his problem, not David’s.

As for the argument that David should have credited Chris Cornell again
after Randy’s little speech, what was he supposed to do? Interrupt Randy and
tell him he was wrong? The kid’s trying to win this thing!

Which also explains why he didn’t credit Doxology after his performance.
Admitting it then, in front of the judges, would have been a disaster (A quick
listen on YouTube will tell you that David was definitely doing their version
and not Panic! At the Disco’s as I originally thought.).

Remember that David was chastised in the beginning for his go-around with
Simon so he knows that keeping his mouth shut is the best move. And in his
defense, with all of that screaming going on, he probably only hears half of
what the judges are saying anyway.

In all honesty, it shouldn’t be David’s responsibility to set up the songs.
That should be the responsibility of the show. And yes, the show should have
done so for Doxology either through David’s video package or through Ryan’s
introduction.

I am not bothered that David is doing other people’s arrangements and I
actually applaud his knack for finding the right ones. Though he may not be
original, he is still brave for attempting little known versions of well-known
songs. What I am bothered by is that Randy and his big mouth could end up
hurting David’s chances of being the next “American Idol.” To combat Randy, the
show needs to continue on its current path and give credit where credit is
due—even if it means doing it after the fact.

I believe that Ryan needs to forgo the umpteenth “Idol Gives Back” promo
(even though Kiefer is participating) and give David time to defend himself
tonight.

Wow! Was that an about face or what?...

April 1st…

Yea! Yea! Yea! David Cook got to defend himself (I’d like to think I had
something to do with that.) and mention Doxology. Kudos to the show for that and
I hope Doxology is now happy…

David Cook, “Little Sparrow”: 19
How gorgeous is that guy’s voice? And kudos for doing his own arrangement
this time. It was gorgeous—but I would’ve ditched the backup singers a little.
And I’m with Paula. His hair looked great.

Remember this?

April 2nd…

Before we get into tonight’s show, let’s talk about the drama that happened
behind the scenes last night…

David Cook was rushed to the hospital following his performance last night,
after experiencing heart palpitations. Paramedics were called to check his blood
pressure during the commercial break prior to his performance, but David would
only get proper treatment after his song.At the hospital, a doctor gave him
medication to bring his blood pressure down and discharged him. He is expected
to be on tonight’s show.

The palpitations were most likely created by the stress of the show. But
David has also been dealing with family issues as his brother is battling
cancer.

Speaking of the stress of the show, Doxology told EW.com today that they
feel totally vindicated by David’s shout-out last night. They admitted that it
had been in the works with the producers for a few weeks (Interestingly, they
also said they could not confirm the rumor that David did mention them in his
taped interview before his performance but the producers cut it out.).

April 8th…

David Cook, “Innocent”: 19
The song had a weird beginning, but once David hit the chorus it was
awesome. I thought it was gutsy for him to move right in front of the judges and
I loved his move with “give back” written on his hand. That was genius and it
looked great on camera.

Finally, the night I fell in love…

April 15th…

David Cook, “Always Be My Baby”: 20+++MAN, DO I LOVE THIS GUY!!! That was
so
awesome I can’t even say. I almost jumped off the couch. And tomorrow, I
will be downloading that bad boy from iTunes. And the tears in David’s eyes as
the director cut to his brother in the audience just spoke volumes, didn’t it?
I’m actually glad they didn’t have time to tell us what was going on.

I’m still mad that the studio track on iTunes doesn’t include the string arrangement…

April 22nd…

David Cook, “Music of the Night” (from "Phantom of the Opera"): 20
Just when I thought David couldn’t surprise me any more, he does by singing
this song straight without any rearrangement. Yes, there were some lower
register problems in that first verse, but it was so beautiful overall, I’m
willing to look over it (as usual). Here is what I just texted my hero Denise:
“I am so in love with him.” I said I thought he could nail this one, and boy,
did he ever.

April 29th…

David Cook: “I’m Alive”: 18
Again, it was good; but there was just something missing.

David Cook, “All I Really Need Is You”: 20
Now there’s the man I love! He could release that now. And that, Brooke, is
how you use a guitar.

May 6th…

David Cook, “Hungry Like the Wolf”: 18
So what exactly are the rules of this thing? Duran Duran is not in the Rock
and Roll Hall of Fame! I thought it was a good performance, but it just lacked
something for me. Maybe it was because I was too busy trying to figure out how
he could pick this one.

David Cook, “Baba O’Riley”: 20
That was more like it. However, I think that David psyched himself out a
little this week since everyone was saying this should be his big week.

May 13th…

David Cook, “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face”: 15+
I LOVE HIM SO MUCH!!! Could we just send the confetti down now? That,
Randy, is how to pick a song. Did you see Simon clap in the middle of
it?

David Cook, “Dare You to Move”: 18
So this isn’t the song that all the sites were reporting he had chosen, but
when I heard he was doing this, I got excited--until I heard it. Was it just me
or did it seem really short? He should’ve got off the verse quicker because his
lower register was wavering all over the place. I think he might’ve killed his
voice with the first one.

David Cook, “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing”: 15
How is it that David always makes me love songs I’ve always hated? When
Ryan said what the song was, I actually said, “Oh, come on!” But as usual he
made it work. I don’t know what Randy was listening to because that was awesome.
How was that predictable? He totally changed the song around! And Diane Warren
(who wrote the song) loved it, so who cares what Randy thinks anyway?

May 20th…

David Cook, “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For”: 15
Let’s see Archuleta march through the audience and take that mini-stage
like that. I LOVE HIM! I just hope he can hold it together for the entire
show.

David Cook, “Dream Big”: 18
David did manage to change this one from a country song to a rock song, but
still, it just didn’t quite work and man, do I hope they don’t release this as a
single. Plus, the band was so loud that we couldn’t hear the words.

I was SO wrong about that one…

David Cook, “The World I Know”: 19
And he just barely made it. I almost gave that point back after his
breakdown, but if I’m being honest I have to take away a point for song choice,
because as beautiful as it was, it just wasn’t the dramatic ending he needed.
I’m with Simon. I really wanted to hear “Billie Jean” or “Hello”--which I told
you last night.

I was wrong about that one too. I think it was better that David did a new song. And if Archie had been able to clear what he wanted to do, this point would have been moot anyway…

And there you have it. Cook’s “Idol” journey through my eyes. Cook told reporters that his “Idol” experience was a progression.

It looks like mine was too. I guess we progressed together...

Cougars for Cook?

So, how did the favorite end up getting upset? Speculation is that cougars my have swayed the vote…

For those of you unfamiliar with the term, cougar refers to (according to Wiktionary) “a woman of middle age who actively seeks the casual companionship of younger (typically under 30 years old) males.”

Tuesday in the “Idol” audience, a woman held up a sign reading, “Cougars for Cook.” And today, the Associated Press ran a story detailing how middle-aged women may have swayed the vote.

Linda Sharp, a 42-year-old mom, told the AP, “The biggest thing: He’s legal, and that goes a long way. He’s 25. That’s old enough that we can openly ogle him, and we can drool over him, and it doesn’t make us feel like we could be his mother.”

Alrighty then…

Sharp writes “Idol” recaps on her blog “Don’t Get Me Started,” which is popular with soccer moms. When she posted Cook’s “Guitar Hero” commercial, commenters said, “Mmmmmmmmmmmmm. Need I say more?” and “Have I died? Is this heaven? I’ll take it!”

Even I don’t love him that much…

So, what evidence do we have that these women affected the vote? The ratings. According to the AP, the biggest drop in “Idol” viewers was among women ages 18-34 and teenagers 12-17--Archie’s demos. Also, “Idol” viewership has risen among people ages 50 and over and the median age of “Idol” viewers is now 42--apparently Cook’s demos…

As Sharp told the AP, “I’m exposed to the Jonas Brothers and the ‘High School Musical’ crowd and all of that, but as cute as I might think they are, they do make me feel maternal — not hot,” Sharp said. “So watching David Cook, I think that’s been a huge appeal for thirty/forty/fiftysomethings that ’We’re not dead.’ We might drive the soccer minivan, (but) we’re just picky about what perks us up.”

Okay, I’m going to stop creeping you out now…

Simon: "I was almost horrified..."

Was Simon really just wrong Tuesday night and not using reverse psychology on us Cook fans?
That’s sure what it sounded like on Ryan’s radio show Thursday…

“Reality TV World” reports Simon told Ryan, “I was almost horrified when I went back home and watched [Tuesday night’s performance show]. It was literally like watching and listening to a whole new show. What you thought was good wasn’t very good and what you thought was bad actually was a lot better.”

Simon told Ryan he was only thinking of “one word” when Cook won--“justice.”

“I thought it was the right thing. You always think in a situation like this where someone who’s cute like David Archuleta, that it’s going to be carried by young girls or grandmothers or [whoever] vote for people like David Archuleta. But actually the person who I thought did the best performances over the 11 or 12 weeks actually deserved to win and he did win. It was good.”

I’m sorry, Simon. I will never believe you weren’t trying to manipulate me. I just refuse to believe you could be so dead wrong…

Cook Gets Some Heavy Hitters for His Album

It looks like Cook is going to work with some heavy hitters…

Jesse McCartney told “Rolling Stone” at his album release party that he and Ryan Tedder of OneRepublic are planning to write some songs with Cook for his album.

Why is that a big deal? Because those two co-wrote a certain song you may have heard of--the #1 smash, “Bleeding Love”…

That's great news, except for the fact that probably means Clive is involved somehow...

“Hits Daily Double” is reporting that J/RCA is already involved in promoting Cook’s single, “Time of My Life” to radio. Archie will reportedly join Jive and won’t release a single until closer to his album release date…

Some Other Cook Tidbits...

Here are a few other tidbits from Cook’s satellite interview…

Cook said he “put up a wall, kind of a protective barrier between me and the audience. It was a little bit of a defense mechanism to try to protect myself.” Cook said that in the third or fourth week, Ken Leverne, one of the vocal coaches, “had to force [him] to break that down”…

About those controversial teleprompters, Cook said, “Yes, some of [the songs] were on the teleprompter for us. But at the end of the day, you can get the words, but it’s about the performance”…

Cook is still in disbelief about the 12 million vote margin. “I think that number is actually really misleading. Obviously, within the bubble of ‘Idol,’ it’s hard to get a vibe on what’s going on. I thought Archie was probably a little bit ahead of me, if I’m being honest. … I attribute the finale vote discrepancy to my fans just being awesome. I don’t really know how else to explain it”…

Yes, David, we are awesome. And so are you…

Cook on "Analog Heart": "I was kind of a pawn in that whole game"

During a satellite interview with reporters today, Cook revealed the truth behind the Amazon release of “Analog Heart,” his independent solo CD (as reported on MJ’s Big Blog)…

“'Analog Heart' got released independently in May 2006. I spent a good year
playing and promoting that record as much as I could. A lot of people, thank
God, bought the record. About midway through the season, I had to have the
record pulled, obviously, for fairness issues on the show. And I got it pulled
offline. But somebody, I have no idea who, reposted it on Amazon, so while that
was going on, I was kind of at a loss. I talked to Amazon about getting it
pulled, and there was a bunch of mass confusion about it. I’m extremely
appreciative at how well it did. But
I was kind of a pawn in that whole game.”

I think that FOX News reporter owes Cook an apology…

As I’ve mentioned in the comments, I did manage to get my hands on a copy of “Heart” (Thanks Ryan and Jean!) and I will review it in a future post…

Tidbits from "Larry King Live"

The Top 10 Idols appeared on “Larry King Live” tonight and in between Larry’s stupid questions and his mispronunciations of their names, we got a few interesting tidbits…

Cook’s brother, Adam, has had his brain tumor for 10 years. Cook said, “He’s my American Idol”…

Archie told Larry that he sometimes went against his dad’s advice…

Archie said there has been some talk of him signing with Jive Records--the label that signed Jordin…

When Larry asked Carly what happened to her since she was an early favorite, Carly said the media releasing the information about her MCA deal hurt her. Cook then jumped in to defend her saying, “I’m gonna get on this platform…You got a bum rap. Just because you had a record…it shouldn’t disqualify you in the public’s eye.” Carly said the dollar figure the “Wall Street Journal” reported that the label spent on her was not true.

And she would know that how? Cook, I love you, but…

Larry asked them what song each of them will definitely do on the tour this year:

Cook: “The Time of My Life
Archie: “Angels”
Syesha: “If I Ain’t Got You”
Jason: He said he will definitely break out the ukulele, so I’m thinking “Over the Rainbow”
Carly: “Bring Me to Life”
Kristy Lee: “God Bless the USA”
Brooke: “Let It Be”
Ramiele: Something by the Jackson 5 that I didn’t catch the title of
Chikezie: “I Believe to My Soul”

Cook gave a shout out to Luke Menard, who was just diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma…

At the end of the show, Larry asked the Idols to sing something and after some hesitation, Cook finally started “Freedom” by George Michael. The others joined in, and it sounded good. Interestingly, Archie never found his way in, prompting Larry to say, “Archie, jump in there”…

Of course, that was consistent with Archie’s entire appearance on the show tonight as he struggled to put words together. I’m sure that someone will work with him over the next several months to get him more comfortable…

Don’t forget that the top 10 will be on “Larry King Live” again on Monday at 9 p.m. on CNN…

Cook Changes His Shirt for Leno

Last night, Cook appeared on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.”

And yes, it appears that he changed his shirt, but I think the jacket was still the same…

You can see the appearance here.

And don’t be too hard on Jay for not knowing that Archie also did a “Guitar Hero” commercial. That was a recurring theme on the Internet today. It’s like Archie’s commercial never existed.

Maybe because it’s hard to get excited over a 17-year-old dancing in his underwear…

Pickler Picks Paramount

I interrupt my deluge of post-finale news to pass along this piece of news...

Kellie Pickler is coming to the Paramount Arts Center in July.

"WTCR Presents Kellie Pickler" is scheduled for July 11th.

I'll pass along more details when I get them...

Did "Idol" Cheat Tuesday Night?

Were any of you Archuleta fans out there concerned that Archie would forget the words to one of his songs Tuesday night?

You needn’t have worried…

USAToday.com reported today that the show used teleprompters.

GASP!

Some people are saying the move turned “Idol” into “a glitzy round of karaoke” and that remembering lyrics is all a part of the performance. But considering all of the stuff they ask the final two to go through in that last week--Guitar Hero commercials, Disneyworld commercials and song recordings, movie watching, interviews, rehearsals for two shows--I’m not really opposed.

Of course, you know at this point I could really care less…

What do you guys think? Are teleprompters cheating?

The Idol Numbers: A Political Perspective

Some political pundits are having fun with the “Idol” voting today.

Why? Because more people voted for our next American Idol than for our next Presidential candidate…

According to “USA Today,” 35,216,531 votes have been cast in all of the 2008 Democratic presidential primaries thus far.

Compare that to the 97.5 million votes Ryan reported that “Idol” received.

Maybe Hilary and Barack should learn to sing…

Cook: "It's pretty absurd..."

Yesterday, I made a comment about whether or not Cook wanted to win. So did he?
He told EW.com’s Shirley Halperin that yes, he did…

“I think to be in this competition and not want to win is just a slap in the face to everybody that auditioned. Did I fall into it? Yes, but I never went into this thinking, I wanna take fifth or tenth place. I think that’s very disrespectful.”

Cook told Halperin that if you look at his song choices and put them in order “it’s like a set list.”

So did David ever vote himself? He said he voted three times during the season and each vote was for…Archuleta.

But the most interesting thing that David told Halperin was this comment about television:

“Television is a weird thing. One of the things that was really tough for me to grasp was how people can really invest themselves in you as a person, based off what they see in an hour or two. Why do they cry when somebody gets sent home? Because these are relationships that were created long ago. It’s interesting…”

Cook also shared that last night was “a trip. I got to play with ZZ Top and introduce Bryan Adams and George Michael. And to have it all topped off by me winning ‘American Idol’? It’s pretty absurd”…

David told USAToday.com, "You kind of hold that air in for four months, throughout the whole process. To be able to exhale was kind of the ultimate release. Ten-plus years of work I put into wanting to play music has been vindicated all of a sudden."

Archuleta: "How can you be disappointed?"

So, what did David Archuleta have to say after he finished second last night?

Adam Vary of EW.com talked to Archie, who was extremely upbeat…

“How can you be disappointed? I mean, making it to the top two, and then, just, I feel so good about my performances yesterday. How can you be upset about it?”

Archie said Cook had been like his “big brother” through the whole show, but as for his real family, Archie told Vary that a lot of the stuff going around about his dad “didn’t make sense."Archie said he wouldn’t be who he is without his family and that they’ve kept him “grounded”…

Several of the reports I read on the Internet mentioned that Archuleta seemed almost relieved. Maybe after seeing all the stuff Cook had to go through today he decided he didn’t want any part of it…

The Davids on "Today"

Here’s another date to mark on your calendar…

The two Davids will both perform on “Today” Thursday, May 29th.

“Today” airs from 7-9 a.m. on NBC. Check your local listings for when the fourth hour airs in your area…

The "Guitar Hero"s

During his appearance on “Access Hollywood,” Nancy O’Dell asked Cook about his Guitar Hero commercial in which he channeled Tom Cruise in “Risky Business”…

When Nancy complimented his legs, Cook told her, “It’s amazing what a spray-on tan will do.”

Cook said the commercial shoot was a “welcome break” from all the rehearsals. “That was a couple hours of fun short of having to jump off a coffee table on my knees forty times.”

David also told Nancy that the choreography was “actually really tough to learn, so my hats off to [Tom Cruise]!”

If you missed it, here’s David’s commercial, followed by Archie’s…



Notice that Archie didn’t try as hard to stick to the original moves…

David Cook: All "Access"

“Access Hollywood” followed Cook around today to witness his first day as our new American Idol--a blur of interviews and appearances.

He even stopped by their studio to perform a gorgeous rendition of “The World I Know,” which you can see here.

And if you think it looks like he’s wearing the same clothes he was when he won, that’s because he is…

I really hope someone gets him some new clothes before his “Tonight Show” appearance…

And I hope Cook gets some well-deserved sleep very soon…

Cook Dominates iTunes

No surprise, David Cook is dominating the iTunes charts…

“The Time of My Life” is currently #1. David also comes in at spots #2-#4 with his performances of “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For,” “The World I Know” and “Dream Big.”

“Time” is also the #1 ringtone.

Cook is also at spots #2-#4 on the videos chart with “Dream,” “Found” and “World.” Cook would be at #1 if not for the “Midnight Train to Georgia” charity video…

Cook and Archuleta on Kimmel

Both of the Davids appeared on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” last night in a taped bit with Guillermo.

You can see it here.

Archuleta is SO cute, so he gets most of the camera time here…

"The Time of My Life"

Is it just my unabiding love for all things David Cook, or is this song actually not that bad?

You can hear the produced version of “The Time of My Life” here.

I agree that it’s a tad overproduced, but I can hear it playing over a TV montage, can’t you?

The single has already been released to radio, and it should be available on iTunes soon, if it isn’t already…

Cook Speaks!

While we wait for his appearance on "The Tonight Show" and while you wait for me to compile all of his comments from various interviews, you can see Cook talking to Jodi Applegate of the FOX affiliate in New York here.

After watching this, I'm starting to realize why I love him (besides for his singing). His modesty and kindness to the media reminds me SO much of Kiefer Sutherland it's not even funny.

I really hope David never loses those qualities...

Cook Goes to Disneyworld

So, yes, ladies and gentleman. Disney, which owns ABC, is getting into business with a FOX show. What has this world come to?

Honestly, I don’t care if it means we got to see this—Cook going to Disneyworld (I mistakenly said Disneyland last night.).

I’ll have much more on this later, but for now, just enjoy this awesome commercial. And how great is his rendition of “When You Wish Upon a Star”? Can I download that somewhere please?

You can see it here. If for some reason it doesn’t pop up automatically, go to Media Gallery and click on it.

Cook on Leno

Don’t forget that our new American Idol David Cook (Man, do I love the sound of that.) will be on “The Tonight Show” tonight (Thursday).

“Tonight” airs at 11:35 p.m. on NBC.

Since Laura and Jenna Bush are also guests, don’t be surprised if Cook gets a little shorted on time. He won’t be singing, as Tristan Prettyman is Jay’s musical guest.

We’ll get to hear more from David Friday night when he, Archie and the rest of the top 10 guest on “Larry King Live,” which airs at 9 p.m. on CNN…

A Few Thank Yous

So, as we wrap up another “Idol” journey, I just wanted to take a few minutes and thank some people…

My editor, Andrea, for making this thing possible…

My hero, Denise, who saved the day when technical glitches threatened…

Tom Becnel in Sarasota for making me feel really smart and for making me root for a contestant I never would have without him…

And finally, to all of you. I have no idea who most of you are, but I thank you for allowing me onto your computer screens these past five months. “Idol” and this blog have been a great distraction during an otherwise difficult time, so I truly appreciate all of you being here…

But don’t worry. I’m not going anywhere. There are still TV appearances and release dates and all kinds of stuff I still have to tell you about. And I’ll be here for all of it.

I hope you will be too. And please, keep leaving your comments about the finale in the meantime.

Until tomorrow…

Henderson, out!

Proud to Be an "Idol" Fan

Okay, let me just catch my breath for a minute…

My neighbors aren’t knocking on my door yet, so I must have not scared them too badly…

I have to say that this is the happiest I have ever been after a finale. For the first time, my
favorite contestant actually won this thing. I want to scream and cry all at the same time.

Who would’ve thought that Cook would beat Archuleta by 12 million votes? So what did the favorite in? His dad, or did Simon’s comments rally the Cook troops? After seeing that Cheshire cat grin on Simon’s face, I’m more convinced than ever that he said those things on purpose…

After all of the anger I unleashed at the show after the “Hit Me Up” debacle of last week, I couldn’t be prouder of the show than I am at this moment. And I couldn’t be prouder of America for getting it right…

I know the Archuleta fans will cry foul because their guy had a better show, but Cook proved again tonight that he is the better performer. He’s more marketable, and more sellable--or at least, I hope.

And the winning song? I have a feeling we’ll see it at the top of the iTunes chart as soon as it comes out. I’m going to look for it right now…

So what do you guys think? Are you happy with the outcome? Are you surprised by Cook’s margin of victory? And how do you think Jeff will react?

I’ll be back with some final thank yous…

And our new American Idol is...

Back to the “Guitar Hero” ads for a second. Denise just pointed out to me that Archie was wearing shorts instead of underwear. As she said, he is only 17. Cook’s was better…
Now I’m REALLY nervous…

9:56 We’re back…I can barely type I’m so nervous…The Davids are on stage with Ryan…You know that Ryan is going to do a dramatic pause after he says David…Randy says they “brought it down to the wire” and “they’re both winners”…Paula says she’s honored to be there and it’s the beginning of their careers…Simon says he wants to congratulate them both because it was a terrific show and he admitted it wasn’t as clear cut as he said. Simon apologizes for being “disrespectful” to Cook. YEAH! I actually applauded that…Simon says for the first time he doesn’t care who wins because they’re both great…

9:58 Vote certifier brings out the envelope…LET’S DO THIS…

9:59 And the winner by 12 million votes is David…COOK! YES! YES! YES! YES! I think I just scared my neighbors…Jeff stands for Cook…Archie leaves the stage but Cook asks the audience to clap for him…Cook is stunned and he breaks down…Now, I’m breaking down…Camryn Manheim loves it…He says thank you…Simon has a BIG smile on his face. I still say he planned this thing…Cook says he’s at a loss for words. His mother joins him on stage for a big hug. His younger brother is there too…How is he going to sing?…David says it’s all his brother’s fault…The rest of the Idols come back on the corner of the stage…I think it was a little unfair that Archie didn’t even get a goodbye…

10:02 David sings “Time of My Life,” the winning song…I told you this one would be good for him…Cook’s younger brother is crying…Where’s Adam?…Cook hugs Archie, who has a big smile on his face…Yea! He goes to the mini-stage. I love it when he does that…What are those back-up singers singing?…He motions the Idols to join him and he hugs Archie again…The confetti falls…NICE!!! I love it when he hits those big notes…David shakes his head and cries again…Andrew tells the camera, “That’s my brother”…

10:05 And we’re out…

"Praying for Time"

9:41 You’re probably wondering why I didn’t comment on the Cook Guitar Hero commercial earlier? I didn’t see it because I was on a bathroom break, but Denise texted me about it and I was just getting ready to watch it when Archie’s came on. Nice…

9:42 You just know that “Fringe” is going to be a whacked show since it’s coming from J.J. Abrams…

9:42 We’re back…The top 12 return to the stage…Kristy Lee starts out “Faith”…So it is George Michael who’s here…Carly takes over…Ramiele…Am I the only one who thinks this is a little inappropriate…Amanda. Wonder what George is thinking backstage. Do you think he‘s wondering what she just sang?…The guys emerge from behind the girls to sing “Father Figure”…Michael…David H. Am I the only one who finds it ironic that he sang “naked”?…Chikezie…Jason…All of them together…David Cook. Lots of screams…“Freedom”…Where is he?…Archie…David H. and Chikezie…Cook…Jason and Michael…Hernandez. Should’ve voted more for him…Now they’re coming too fast for me to type. But trust me that each of them got their own phrase…Ryan is dancing aga