June 13, 2008
And then there were three. A trio of singers remain for next week's Pride Idol -- semifinals, is it?
Zea, the inconsistent charmer.
David, the steadily improving belter.
Shelia, the emotive gospel diva.
Lance and his lack of ability to listen to the judges -- or was it lack of care? -- got the boot. I think he forgot that our scores count for a whopping 75-percent of the outcome. And, truthfully, his fan club didn't offer much help in the texting department. All bark, no ballots.
I wish Lance well, and I hope he really, truly works hard at finding out who he is a singer. He has to do it if he plans on purusing this seriously.
The contest right now, it seems, is between David and Shelia. Both are unique in their approaches to music. And either would make a fine winner.
David has really paid attention to the judges' comments and learned how to control his voice. He's gone from shouting and showboating to really singing. His challenge now is to work on his presentation and, perhaps, surprising us a bit. Take a few chances. And don't be afraid to show up in a T-shirt and jeans. Be you.
Shelia's performance this week -- Shirley Ceasar's stirring I Remember Mama -- was the best of the competition so far. I think it put a bit of a lump in everyone's throat (at least those who were listening). It did mine.
Shelia can't be anyone but herself -- and that's her ultimate strength. Her performances aren't technically perfect or full of power notes or big, sing-along moments. But they are quintessentially her. I see her struggle sometimes with confidence, but it's endearing, really. She's one of the few performers who makes me want to see more.
Her way to win? Keep picking songs you feel in your soul. We'll feel it, too.
And what can I say about dear Zea, our electric youth?
I think the lights were out, actually, during her Debbie Gibson(?!) tune. Hey, I love Debbie, truth be told. But Electric Youth? I'm still trying to figure that performance out. I think Zea may feel a bit overwhelmed because she's made it this far. Maybe she entered on a whim, but she's here now. And there is some magic there. I just wish she'd trust herself and her voice.
A few other things, since we're talking Pride Idol:
-- Toddicus is a great host. Funny and fiery.
-- Ernie Manouse and Alan Lett make great co-judges. It's a blast.
-- More people should come out. More!
-- But please: SHUT UP!
The crowd on Thursdays is completely disrespectful of what's happening onstage. If you're not there for the show, how about you go somewhere else? Some of us are trying to listen.
And if you are there, why not at least TRY and give it a chance? These contestants are working their butts off. Give them some respect. Listen, listen, listen.
You can pick up that trick, talk about Britney Spears or gossip anytime.
I really hate that I wasn''t there last night to see my partner sing her heart out. I know how she sings Shirley, nd it touches me every time. Lance, sorry to see you go. Follow your dream of singing and you will go far. I still believe it will be between Shelia and David. I'll see everyone next week.
