Canadian Idol: Kelly Clarkson Mentors The Top Five
Recap by Jon Dos
August 22, 2007
Last week on Canadian Idol, Maroon 5 mentored the Idols for the "Pop/Rock" theme. I lost out on some Maroon 5 tickets to the Air Canada Centre to a couple of Hamiltonians on my local radio station, which was a sign that they actually know how to use their phones. Brian was safe and my losing streak finally came to an end. Unfortunately, it was Tara who left us, who happened to be growing on me these past couple of weeks.
Ben welcomes us to our Top 5 show. Kelly Clarkson gave guidance to our Idols as they sing songs from artists who most influence them as artists. Kelly Clarkson is joining us in the theatre tonight. And with that said, let's say hello to our judges!
Jake hopes that it will tell us about the kind of records the Idols will make and the kind of artists they want to be. Most importantly, he wants to see if they're not imitative and can be their own Idol.
Farley is asked about the pitfalls and dangers of tonight's theme. Farley mentions that the Idols should have been through this journey long enough to understand what they're capable of. You've got to take risks but they have to be effective.
Ben asks Sass about our guest, Kelly Clarkson, and what can the Top 5 learn from her. Kelly has a lot to share because she is the first person to achieve huge success through Idol. She adds, "she has massive acclaim from critics and fans."
Finally, Zack is asked if this competition is still wide open. Zack says that we are finally in the playoffs. Tonight, we are going to figure out who the top 2 are going to be. And it's time for someone to step up and want to win and be the next Idol.
Our videos this week is of the Idols joined by Kelly Clarkson in rehearsals. Kelly's introductory package includes her thoughts of her own Idol experience. She was one of the guinea pigs and she had no idea it was going to make her famous. She is asked often why she is "the one." She doesn't think she's special in any way, she just knows what she wants to do. Kelly doesn't want a 5 year career. She wants a 20 or 30 year career. She wants to be able to make CD's she loves. It is key to stay true to whatever you want to do.
The first performer of the night is Matt Rapley. One of Matt's Idol's is Stevie Wonder because he had struggles here and there but continued to push on through. Matt is performing "Higher Ground" and is doing this for Stevie. Kelly points out that Matt's voice sounds more into it than he looks. Matt needs to get into it more and get people clapping. That way, the audience will "eat it up."
The growl is back which I'm not a fan of, coming from Matt. Vocally, his performance isn't that bad but his approach just isn't my taste. At times, the backup vocalists overpower Matt, and actually sound better than him. I'm not sure this will leave much of a mark to Canada by the end of the show. Matt could be in danger for the first time.
Jake: Jake loves the fact that Matt did the Red Hot Chili Pepper's cover because it's more contemporary. Kelly's advice was correct and Matt did a really fine job.
Farley: There is no question that when Matt means business, business will get done. Matt took Kelly's recommendations to heart. If Matt steps up to what he has, it will be rough for everyone else.
Sass: It doesn't matter if you're perfectly in tune. What matters is that Matt has heart and soul and it shined through.
Zack: When you step up and love the song, people can love someone for their intensity and drive. This is what it's all about and what Matt belongs doing.
Since there are only 5 performers, this is the perfect opportunity for some filler. Next!
Up next is Dwight d'Eon. Dwight picked "Bed of Roses" by Bon Jovi this week because it is one of those songs that makes you love the thought of being able to write and sing a song with so much depth. Kelly thinks Dwight's biggest strength is his experience. You'd think Dwight wrong the songs he sings.
Dwight starts off at the piano and shows more of his mellow side and I really like it. He quickly leaves the piano and continues the performance standing up and kicking it in the higher register. The transition isn't as seamless like Brian's, but for Dwight, this is a strong performance and my favourite performance by him.
Farley: This is also Farley's favourite performance by Dwight. "You just made your bed, enjoy lying in it."
Sass: "The best thing you've ever done, in my opinion, and you were in tune!"
Zack: Zack thinks this was about as good as Dwight can sing at this point and it's good enough to sell records. However, Zack doesn't think Dwight sings well enough to win.
Jake: Jake felt that the beginning was shaky and to be careful with the mic technique on the piano. The performance was strong and wishes the people at home can feel the power.
Our next performance comes courtesy of Jaydee Bixby. Unsurprisingly, Jaydee's Idol is Elvis and will be performing "I Can't Stop Loving You." Jaydee's goal is that he wants to leave tonight with people going, "Wow! This kid really deserves and wants to be here." Kelly doesn't think Jaydee is 17, and is really 80 but trapped in his body!
Jaydee has a new hair cut, which takes away from his boyish charm. His low, unbuttoned shirts are back but this time there's a reason behind it. He's hiding a scarf which he later gives to fan in the audience. Physical appearance aside, I thought this was imitative and I'm thinking he's going to be torn to shreds after Jake mentioned being your own Idol earlier in the show.
Sass: "You just sang for your supper in a major way." Jaydee did a kick ass job and Sass is impressed.
Zack: If Zack was Jaydee, he would be happy to be eliminated tomorrow night because it would mean he would get on with his career.
Jake: Jake thinks Jaydee needs to work on his rhythm and dancing. Jaydee sings like Elvis but needs sideburns and a jumpsuit before moving the Vegas.
Farley: Jaydee gave a fantastic performance because he has not swayed from who he wants to be. Farley has never seen Jaydee apply so much intensity. Jaydee cared about the song and performance, and did a great job.
Next to hit the stage is Carly Rae Jepsen. Carly's Idol is Rickie Lee Jones who has been her Idol since childhood. Carly asks Kelly how she puts things into perspective. Kelly advises Carly to surround herself with good people. As long as music is your first passion, it should be your main goal. Kelly points out that Carly has a cute, distinct voice. She is the most comfortable because she knows what she wants to do and where to go.
Carly is performing "Chuck E's in Love" which I am not familiar with. It's another decent vocal and cutesy performance from her but I don't think she's in it to win. The judges pointed out that Carly may not appeal to everyone and I don't think most people will recognize this song. I'm not sure being the only girl is enough of a reason to vote for her, but we could have an all male Top 4.
Zack: Zack quotes Jake: "If you want to be loved, be loveable. If you wanted to be remembered, be memorable." Carly is memorable and if she isn't loveable, Zack doesn't know what is.
Jake: Jake is surprised Zack pays attention to what he says. Jake was a nervous when he saw Carly's song choice because he believes her strength is sad songs which have emotion and vulnerability. With all that aside, he was impressed.
Farley: Farley was actually pleased with the song choice. Carly has an adorable thing to her. She uses the stage like a pro and understands how to entertain.
Sass: Carly has a "Carly Rae charm" and it's like a "ray of sunshine."
Closing the show is Brian Melo. Brian will be performing "Karma Police" by Radiohead. He really respects their artistic approach and how they always stay true to their roots. He has been following his gut and choosing songs that mean a lot to him. Kelly loves his raspy voice and loves that he chose Radiohead. Kelly concludes by saying Brian doesn't need any advice because he's really good.
It's another home run from Brian. I do have some bad news though. I do not like his hat this week. I don't know how Brian does it but he has a quality about him that makes you feel like he's actually performing in your living room. I think Brian could pull a Melissa O'Neil and actually win this thing!
Jake: (standing O) Jake hopes people at home understand what they just saw. This is one of the most magical moments on this show!
Farley: Brian just made his family, town, and all four of the judges proud!
Sass: For a minute, Sass almost thought Brian wrote the song. It was like being at a Brian Melo concert.
Zack: "Mr. and Mrs. Melo, your son may be the next Canadian Idol!"
Tonight was actually a good night. On Mary Murphy's hot tamale train tonight are Brian, Dwight, and Carly (in that order). As harsh as I've been on Dwight, I actually want to see him do well in this competition and wouldn't mind seeing him make it further. However, I think our bottom 2 will consist of Dwight and Jaydee because of the prophecies Farley and Zack made. Farley mentioned to Dwight that he made his bed and to lay in it, while Zack encouraged fans not to vote for Jaydee. The results have been unpredictable so I'll say Jaydee will be going home.
Kelly was a great mentor and tomorrow she will be performance twice. Canada, don't ruin a great week by voting off my remaining favourite! Tomorrow we will unveil our Top 4 and I'll see you then!
Jon Dos is a reality TV junkie living in Toronto, ON. He would love to hear from you and will do his best to get back to you. He can be reached at jon.dos@hotmail.com.
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