American Idol: Finale Part 1

Well this is it, kids. Tonight Candice and Kree compete one final time hoping to become the winner of American Idol 2013. They will both take on three songs this evening: Simon Fuller’s choice, their would be singles, and a repeat of their “best” performance. Should be a jam packed hour!

 

ROUND 1

Contestant: Kree Harrison
Song: “Angel” by Sarah McLachlan

When the song starts the lights behind Kree make her look like she has wings. I appreciate that. She sounds lovely, looks lovely, and regardless of what happens during the results show, she should be very proud.

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Contestant: Candice Glover
Song: “Chasing Pavements” by Adele

I'm typically not a huge fan of Adele covers on reality TV shows. I mean, it's Adele. Candice could have gone crazy with this song, but she chooses a subtle approach instead, and I really enjoy it.

Judges Say: We are only hearing from two judges this round and Mimi and The Dawg weigh in... Mariah says she is proud to have been a part of this season and the talent is refreshing. Randy thinks both songs were too sleepy for the Final 2 but he gives Round 1 to Candice.

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ROUND 2

Contestant: Kree Harrison
Song: “All Cried Out”

This is one of those "tug at your heart strings" songs, but it's one of the better Idol original songs we've seen. Not too sappy, but Kree is 100% invested in it. She sings the hell out of it and I will download this on iTunes as soon as I can.

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Contestant: Candice Glover
Song: “I Am Beautiful”

I enjoy that the screens behind Candice shoot fireworks that look a lot like a rain shower of confetti. Can we at least wait until tomorrow, Idol producers? I could see this song coming on the radio all the time as well. My personal preference is Kree's song in this round, but I will never have a bad thing to say about Candice.

Judges Say: Nicki loves Kree's composure and thinks the song made her reach down in her gut more. Keith believes the competition is "soul vs. soul" and the two original songs were tailor made for the contestants.

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ROUND 3

Contestant: Kree Harrison
Song: “Up to the Mountain” by Patty Griffin

This is the song I was hoping Kree would pick for this round. The fog and the choir are a nice touch, but really neither of these elements matter. Kree's performance would be flawless regardless. I'm SO glad she is part of the finale, and I just love her.  

Judges Say: Keith says the performance was beautiful. Nicki says "Kreedom" for hopefully the last time ever, and calls her performance uplifting. Randy thinks Kree just gave a winning performance. Mariah agrees with Randy and says she "felt" Kree during her performances tonight.

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Contestant: Candice Glover
Song: “I (Who Have Nothing)” by Shirley Bassey

So, yeah. Candice steals the night with this one. There was never a doubt in my mind that if she closed with this Shirley Bassey classic or "Somewhere" she would bring the house down...and she does.  Chills.  

Judges Say: Standing ovation. Keith had been waving his arms all over the place during the performance. He says it was like a planet exploding. Nicki notes that we are seeing Candice's legs for the first time...because that's important. Randy says Candice flat out sing. Yup. Mariah thinks Candice has an undeniable talent.

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Though Kree was a fierce competitor tonight, I think Candice is going to be crowned the winner tomorrow and rightly so. Will I buy Kree's album when it comes out? Absolutely. But I'm really hoping Candice wins it all. We'll find out during the second part of the finale tomorrow. Til then!