America's Got Talent: Why Don't We Just Split the Money In Two?
Epsiode 11 Recap and Commentary by Donna Emery
August 16, 2007
Why Don't We Just Split the Money In Two?
America's Got Talent Recap & commentary by Donna Emery
This week on America's Got Talent, I was glad to see I'd picked the Final Four right. But I never dreamed that it would remain so hard to pick an overall winner.
The week's performances began with the usual showy fanfare and more fluff than most quilts. The performers were touted as if they were already celebrities; the judges were dressed up and looking stiff and formal, while Jerry Springer sounded excited even to introduce the commercials.
When Springer finally got around to announcing the victors, he told us that each performer would do two numbers this week: one that was chosen by the judges, and one that was chosen by the performer.
The first performer to be proclaimed one of the Final Four was my ongoing favorite, Cass Haley.
David said they had decided to pick a song that would showcase his strength at singing reggae. They also wanted to hear something contemporary. So, they chose the reggae version of "I Can't Help Falling In Love With You"
Cass was born to sing this type of song. His clear, strong voice had us all bopping along to the beat. He used to be shy and nervous; now he is relaxed and looks professional. He doesn't dress flashy or put on any airs. He is who he is, and I absolutely love him.
David asked him how it felt to sing a song that had been made famous by Elvis. Cass said it felt great. David told Cass that he'd brought his own style to the song, and that he is here in the finals for a reason.
Sharon said that Cass has found his comfort zone. She also said that the song had an appropriate title because "America's falling in love with you!"
Piers said it was amazing to think that just a short while ago, he'd been a guy just jamming on the beach, and now he was giving the King a run for his money.
Cass admitted that when he had first heard the judges' choice, he'd been scared, but he knew it was a beautiful song and he was glad to sing it.
The next performer to make the cut was - again - no surprise: Butterscotch.
Sharon said that they'd chosen a song that would showcase her beautiful voice.
She sang "What's Going On?". She started out sultry, and I thought she was a bit too breathless here. But she got better. I love the way she's evolved past the grunge look and into a glamorous babe. She did a good job, and though she is not my favorite I think she has a good chance to win.
David said that some Americans don't understand beatboxing and just wanted her to sing. He said she'd done a good job for those fans.
Sharon said that Butterscotch has so many sides, and that she did well.
Piers said he kind of missed her beatboxing, since that's what her strength is.
Butterscotch called her song a "classic" and said she'd been happy to sing it.
I was very glad to hear the name of the next act: Terry Fator.
Piers said that the judges knew that Terry and his puppets could master the standards, but wanted him to do something more contemporary.
Terry brought out a cowboy puppet and sang "I've Got Friends In Low Places". It was absolutely hilarious. Not only did the puppet sound like Garth, the incongruity of the rowdy lyrics and Terry's dapper style - and amazingly closed mouth - was just delightful! The judges, the audience and I were rolling in the aisles.
David said if the competition is a horse race, then Terry is the "dark horse", but he's leading the race. He said it was terrific.
Sharon wondered if there is any celebrity he couldn't do? Terry said they hadn't found one yet.
Piers said the judges had thought they'd given him a real challenge: to do the number in a way that would make country music seem entertaining to Piers. He told him that he had met the challenge, and that the act was hilarious.
As the last five acts stood on stage awaiting the verdict, the tension was high. The crowd was vocal; supporting their various favorites. But the suspense was soon over, and the last finalist was named as Julienne Irwin.
Yes, I was right about the acts that would be chosen. Again.
Are You Buzz Worthy? We Want To Know What You Think
Have you got something interesting to say. We'd like to hear it. This is your chance to sound off about your favorite Reality TV show. Or the show you hate. Did somebody do something really stupid? Really smart? Is there a strategy being over looked? Is a performer for real? Or not getting the buzz they should? Here's your chance - take it.
All articles are the intellectual property of and copyrighted by the individual authors. By submitting an article to Reality TV Calendar you are granting Reality TV Calendar permission to display the article in perpetuity.
Free Counter
