Showing posts with label 2012. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2012. Show all posts
There are some yearly features
that I like to try and keep up with for the blog. One of them is highlighting
my favourite songs and artists that have impacted my playlist. A few years ago during my retail days, a friend of mine and I discussed who deserved to be in
our Top 10 list of artists. Though, it was more an argument to change each
other’s thoughts and opinions. Since then I’ve felt inspired to always look
back and think about those songs I couldn’t stop singing, the videos I played
on loop or the artists that popped up back on my iPod.
Note: Just like last year, some of the artists could get an explanation behind their rankings. Artists will be listed from most-to-least and if certain artists below collaborated on the same song then I may only reference it once.
Songs: Anything Could Happen, Lights,
Starry Eyed, Human, Little Dreams
LYR (Last Year's Rank): NEW
Before 2012, I had never heard of Ellie Goulding or really listened to any of her songs. ‘Lights’ and ‘Starry Eyed’ were downloaded on my iPod after it was a random song I heard over the radio one time. At first I wasn’t a big fan and even contemplated removing them; however, after some time listening to the tracks and hearing more of her music, I absolutely fell in love. Ellie Goulding is possibly one of my current favourite artists and I can’t wait to hear more from her.
LYR: #4
Ke$ha has vastly improved her place on my playlist. Her dance tracks are incredibly catchy and most days I really do need an upbeat dance song on the way home. Her new album dropped in 2012 and most of the songs made their way on the list already. I’m not sure if all the ones above will become videos, but it would be great to see if it actually happens.
3. Dragonette
Songs: Let It Go, Live In This City
LYR: #16
Another group that has climbed up the ranks from year-to-year. Pop-rock isn’t a genre that I’m used to but I have really developed an appreciation for Dragonette. Their last album was great and even though I have listened to their new tracks yet, their last two singles were amazing. Let’s see how 2013 turns out for Dragonette.
4. Owl City
Agree or Disagree with the list? Share your thoughts and comments below about which artists or songs influenced you for 2012!
Note: Just like last year, some of the artists could get an explanation behind their rankings. Artists will be listed from most-to-least and if certain artists below collaborated on the same song then I may only reference it once.
1. Ellie Goulding
Songs: Anything Could Happen, Lights,
Starry Eyed, Human, Little DreamsLYR (Last Year's Rank): NEW
Before 2012, I had never heard of Ellie Goulding or really listened to any of her songs. ‘Lights’ and ‘Starry Eyed’ were downloaded on my iPod after it was a random song I heard over the radio one time. At first I wasn’t a big fan and even contemplated removing them; however, after some time listening to the tracks and hearing more of her music, I absolutely fell in love. Ellie Goulding is possibly one of my current favourite artists and I can’t wait to hear more from her.
2. Ke$ha
Songs: Die Young, C’Mon, Warrior,
All That Matters (The Beautiful Life)LYR: #4
Ke$ha has vastly improved her place on my playlist. Her dance tracks are incredibly catchy and most days I really do need an upbeat dance song on the way home. Her new album dropped in 2012 and most of the songs made their way on the list already. I’m not sure if all the ones above will become videos, but it would be great to see if it actually happens.
Songs: Let It Go, Live In This City
LYR: #16
Another group that has climbed up the ranks from year-to-year. Pop-rock isn’t a genre that I’m used to but I have really developed an appreciation for Dragonette. Their last album was great and even though I have listened to their new tracks yet, their last two singles were amazing. Let’s see how 2013 turns out for Dragonette.
Songs: When Can I See You Again?,
Metropolis, Good Time, Speed Of Love, Bombshell Blonde
LYR: NEW
Owl City’s sound may be a little tween for me. A few of the tracks are catchy pop tunes and I really do like the tone. It all started with his collaboration with one of the artists on the list and I decided to check out a few of his other songs. Suffice it say, I’m somewhat hooked and I really wanted to see if he’s good as a live performer.
5. The Black Keys
Songs: Lonely Boy, Dead And Gone, Run Right Back
LYR: NEW
Rock music is definitely not my main genre. It’s something I don’t really listen to on repeat and I’m not really sure how I was introduced to The Black Keys. It may have something to do with work and someone sharing with me their album to listen. Apparently I really liked the songs because a few weeks later, the entire album is now on my playlist and ‘Lonely Boy’ was on repeat for a while. Maybe I will give new genres a chance in 2013.
6. Carly Rae Jepsen
Songs: Call Me Maybe, This Kiss
LYR: NEW
The song that defined the summer. ‘Call Me Maybe’ inspired parodies, online videos and practically everyone knows the lyrics. I had to put her on the list regardless and the tracks deserved to be in the Top 10. Her follow-up songs were good and hopefully she becomes known for more than one song.
7. FUN.
Songs: We Are Young, Some Nights
LYR: NEW
Well... FUN. has officially won the Grammy for their debut song. The group is slowly growing on me and last year definitely showcased two of their current top hits. FUN. definitely has something and they could become even bigger this year. I should check out more of their album tracks to see if there are other songs I can add to my playlist. Any suggestions I should know about?
8. Nicki Minaj
Songs: Starships, Pound The Alarm, Va Va Voom
LYR: NEW
Her music is a hit-or-miss sometimes. I really love her more dance and pop songs compared to some of the harder tracks. Her recent appearance on American Idol may delay any future songs for a while so be prepared to wait.
9. Foster The People
Songs: Pumped Up Kicks, Houdini
LYR: NEW
Trying something new this year with different artists and groups. One of the few new groups I've listened to was Foster The People. 'Houdini' is a great song that I love to hear on dull afternoons and the remixes have been getting better and better. The group is still somewhat new so I haven't heard much in terms of songs yet. Though, I would love to hear more.
10. Tegan and Sara
Songs: Body Work, Closer
LYR: NEW
Another new addition to the list this year. Tegan and Sara have been around for a while and I’ve heard about them before but never really heard much of their music. Last year, they worked with a DJ who helped spice up their music and ‘Body Work’ was an amazing track. Slowly they’re starting to pop up more but I’d like to see how things develop in 2013.
11. Lana Del Rey
17. Anjulie
Songs: You and I
LYR: #13
18. Kelly Clarkson
Songs: Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)
LYR: NEW
19. Britney Spears
Songs: Scream and Shout
LYR: #1
20. Kat Graham
Songs: Put Your Grafitti On Me, Sassy, Boyfriend’s Back
LYR: NEW
21. The Saturdays
Songs: All Fired Up, Notorious
LYR: NEW
22. Katy Perry
Songs: Part Of Me, Wide Awake
LYR: #5
23. Demi Lovato
Songs: Give Your Heart A Break
LYR: NEW
24. Rihanna
Songs: Diamonds, Where Have You Been
LYR: #22
25. Christina Perri
Songs: A Thousand Years (Part Two)
LYR: NEW
LYR: NEW
Owl City’s sound may be a little tween for me. A few of the tracks are catchy pop tunes and I really do like the tone. It all started with his collaboration with one of the artists on the list and I decided to check out a few of his other songs. Suffice it say, I’m somewhat hooked and I really wanted to see if he’s good as a live performer.
Songs: Lonely Boy, Dead And Gone, Run Right Back
LYR: NEW
Rock music is definitely not my main genre. It’s something I don’t really listen to on repeat and I’m not really sure how I was introduced to The Black Keys. It may have something to do with work and someone sharing with me their album to listen. Apparently I really liked the songs because a few weeks later, the entire album is now on my playlist and ‘Lonely Boy’ was on repeat for a while. Maybe I will give new genres a chance in 2013.
Songs: Call Me Maybe, This Kiss
LYR: NEW
The song that defined the summer. ‘Call Me Maybe’ inspired parodies, online videos and practically everyone knows the lyrics. I had to put her on the list regardless and the tracks deserved to be in the Top 10. Her follow-up songs were good and hopefully she becomes known for more than one song.
Songs: We Are Young, Some Nights
LYR: NEW
Well... FUN. has officially won the Grammy for their debut song. The group is slowly growing on me and last year definitely showcased two of their current top hits. FUN. definitely has something and they could become even bigger this year. I should check out more of their album tracks to see if there are other songs I can add to my playlist. Any suggestions I should know about?
Songs: Starships, Pound The Alarm, Va Va Voom
LYR: NEW
Her music is a hit-or-miss sometimes. I really love her more dance and pop songs compared to some of the harder tracks. Her recent appearance on American Idol may delay any future songs for a while so be prepared to wait.
Songs: Pumped Up Kicks, Houdini
LYR: NEW
Trying something new this year with different artists and groups. One of the few new groups I've listened to was Foster The People. 'Houdini' is a great song that I love to hear on dull afternoons and the remixes have been getting better and better. The group is still somewhat new so I haven't heard much in terms of songs yet. Though, I would love to hear more.
Songs: Body Work, Closer
LYR: NEW
Another new addition to the list this year. Tegan and Sara have been around for a while and I’ve heard about them before but never really heard much of their music. Last year, they worked with a DJ who helped spice up their music and ‘Body Work’ was an amazing track. Slowly they’re starting to pop up more but I’d like to see how things develop in 2013.
11. Lana Del Rey
Songs: Blue Jeans, Born To
Die, Ride
LYR: #25
12. Adele
Songs: Skyfall
LYR: #6
13. David Guetta
Songs: Titanium, Laserlight
LYR: #2
14. Bruno Mars
Songs: Locked Out Of Heaven
LYR: NEW
15. Florence and The Machine
Songs: Shake It Out
LYR: NEW
16. Metric
Songs: Youth Without Youth
LYR: NEW
LYR: #25
12. Adele
Songs: Skyfall
LYR: #6
13. David Guetta
Songs: Titanium, Laserlight
LYR: #2
14. Bruno Mars
Songs: Locked Out Of Heaven
LYR: NEW
15. Florence and The Machine
Songs: Shake It Out
LYR: NEW
16. Metric
Songs: Youth Without Youth
LYR: NEW
17. Anjulie
Songs: You and I
LYR: #13
18. Kelly Clarkson
Songs: Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)
LYR: NEW
19. Britney Spears
Songs: Scream and Shout
LYR: #1
20. Kat Graham
Songs: Put Your Grafitti On Me, Sassy, Boyfriend’s Back
LYR: NEW
21. The Saturdays
Songs: All Fired Up, Notorious
LYR: NEW
22. Katy Perry
Songs: Part Of Me, Wide Awake
LYR: #5
23. Demi Lovato
Songs: Give Your Heart A Break
LYR: NEW
24. Rihanna
Songs: Diamonds, Where Have You Been
LYR: #22
25. Christina Perri
Songs: A Thousand Years (Part Two)
LYR: NEW
Agree or Disagree with the list? Share your thoughts and comments below about which artists or songs influenced you for 2012!
Happy Holidays!
I want to wish everyone a great holiday season and I hope that you enjoy the rest of 2012 with friends and family.
I want to wish everyone a great holiday season and I hope that you enjoy the rest of 2012 with friends and family.
 |
| (Photo courtesy of MTV UK) |
...Tate Stevens!
The 37-year old country music singer was announced as the winner of The X Factor's second season at yesterday's season finale. Tate, whom was a season frontrunner, earned the most votes in the end against runner-up Carly Rose Sonenclar and third place finisher Fifth Harmony. While I'm not surprised to see him walk away with the title, he wouldn't have been my first choice to win. Nevertheless, he has won the title and a $5 million recording contract.
With that being said, let's get right into the overview:
TEENS (Mentored by Britney Spears)
Carly Rose Sonenclar
Oh Carly, I wanted her to win this season. She was the one I felt with the most "star quality" and potential to be a successful artist post-show. However, things can't always be planned and this might be the best news for her. Hit Broadway again, sign with a new record label, take some time off, or start recording some new tracks. Tate may have walked away with the title but she earned the most social buzz for when her debut albums hits shelves (or iTunes). The finale performances weren't as great as the previous ones and the recent trouble with LeAnn Rhimes might overshadow her reputation for a while. Though, I can't wait to see what her first new song will be.
OVER 25 (Mentored by L.A. Reid)
Tate Stevens
The sound I heard when he won: whomp whomp! It was kind of expected that he would be the winner because of his song choices, his backstory and the fact that country music seems to be a really big thing in the U.S. The finale performances were good (not great) and he could be a moderate success in the genre. However, I found him to be dull and repetitive - not my type of thing but who cares. He may not have been my favourite but I will say congratulations and good luck on the solo career.
GROUPS (Mentored by Simon Cowell)
Fifth Harmony
Fifth Harmony did better than many had originally expected. Their finale performances weren't that great - I have a bias against repeating past performances and they did this a lot in the last two weeks. Contestants should never look back unless it's the week's theme and they HAVE to choose a previous song. Third place was almost guaranteed once the show started; my preferred final two from these three would have been Carly and Fifth Harmony. Surprisingly, I read that they've been signed by Simon Cowell's record label and will be staying together, even though they were created for the purpose of the show. Congratulations to them on being signed! Thing about it for a minute, the number of talent contestants who perform and never get signed... they deserve some credit.
Well, that's it for another season of The X Factor. The show is confirmed to return for 2013 with a third season and there will be another round of hopefuls ready to compete. New judges, new contestants and a new season of overblown performances... sounds like fun.
Did the right person win the prize? Sound off in the comments and let me know what you thought of the season.
My second Gossip Girl post of the day!
She is the master behind the website and the girl with eyes seemingly everywhere around the big city. Since the series began in 2007, I gave up on guessing which character would be revealed as the mastermind. However, I've always maintained that Gossip Girl would be a girl and someone linked to the main cast. Serena and Georgina were revealed to be accomplices last season and subsequently could not be the title character.
Going back through the series, I've picked five people whom I'm placing my final guesses and predictions. My guesses may be wrong or in some unbelievably lucky way, one of these will (hopefully) be revealed as Gossip Girl. In no particular order:
1. Jenny Humphrey
Chances: Maybe
Chances: Maybe
Little J might be a strange choice to start off the list, being that she is a (former) main character. Her rebellious antics played an ongoing role on Gossip Girl's website, even contributing a few tips, and it did spark a few blog wars between herself and Blair. While today I did mull over the idea of her being the villain, chances are that Jenny isn't Gossip Girl. She abandoned the city in Season 4 during both the Blair and Juliet incidents and then she jetted off to university with Eric. If she were to secretly be the central character, I assume her international schooling might be the reason why Georgina took over the temporary role.
2. Juliet Sharp
Chances: Slim
Chances: Slim
Juliet may have disappeared since her Season 4 recurring appearance; however, she could still be Gossip Girl. Her vengeful nature originated before she interacted with any of the main characters and the mysterious blogger was exceptionally cruel to Serena in high school. Plus, Juliet is set to return to the finale and it could be her character's revelation moment. The one instance which works against the theory is a text message sent to Blair when they asked Gossip Girl to help find Juliet (yep... I did my research). The text didn't directly lead to finding Juliet but it puts a wrench in theory.
3. Nelly Yuki
Chances: Very likely
Chances: Very likely
Never trust a disgruntled former minion. While the final season has brought back many former characters, Nelly Yuki has earned the most screen time. The early seasons saw Nelly as a lowly minion to Blair who was delegated to the bottom of the group before "stealing" Blair's Yale acceptance. She came back as a fashion writer and I realized that we never knew what Nelly studied in school. She could have used the blog as training to develop her writing skills and connections to get a great job right out of school. It sounds like a stretch but Blair's been dealt the worst of Gossip Girl's wrath while Dan (whom Nelly has a crush on) usually gets the least amount of negative posts.
4. Dorota Kishlovsky
Chances: Doubtful
Chances: Doubtful
The only reason Dorota is on this list is because I thought she was Gossip Girl in the first two seasons. Blair, and also Serena, continually receive the most Gossip Girl blasts. Tips from strangers helped to provide the stories but some of the stories had to have been leaked from someone close. Dorota was always lurking around and could have secretly been the elusive blogger. However, my thinking has shifted over the seasons as Dorota has proven to really care about Blair and wouldn't create 95% of the posts Gossip Girl does. I've held on to the theory so far and I can keep it going for one last episode.
5. Kristen Bell
Chances: Are you serious?!
Chances: Are you serious?!
There is no way that Kristen Bell is Gossip Girl. She has an upcoming cameo role in the series finale and has never appeared as a character on the show. I have a running joke with a friend that Kristen will be revealed as Gossip Girl with flashback highlights to explain how she knew everything. She's only on the list because no matter who is revealed tonight, Kristen and her voice-over as the narrator will always be a reminder of Gossip Girl to me.
Do you agree or disagree with my guesses? Sound off in the comments and let me know your Gossip Girl predictions.
Six seasons, more than 100 episodes and too many text blasts to count, Gossip Girl is calling it quits with its series finale tonight at 8 p.m. EST on MuchMusic and The CW. (Make sure to check your local listings)
Not surprisingly, I've followed the show since it's first episode way back when in 2007. The show was once called the "most buzzed-about show on television" and sparked controversy for its use of sex, drugs and the scandalous drama of the teen characters. I didn't find it TOO shocking but I loved the show and the drama that followed.
Gossip Girl has faltered in the last few seasons with underdeveloped storylines and lackluster characters. With the end only a few short hours away, I have a few requests that I'm hoping will (and MUST) be in the finale.
1. Every storyline is finalized (and stays closed)
No more frenemy statuses, no more reemergence of dead enemies, no more flip-flopping choices - let the decisions be final. These characters have gone back and forth with being rivals, friends, lovers and everything in-between. Let the storylines end properly and have the characters stick to their decisions without changing their minds halfway through. Also, at the end of the episode, if the writers choose to include an "in-the-future" montage, I'm hoping that this won't contradict whatever choice they had previously resolved earlier in the episode.
2. Nate is treated like a main character
Nate (arguably) might have the most undervalued and pointless character development throughout the series. His role on the show can be described in less than five words: he dates... a lot! This season has shown him getting into trouble with his business while dating a high school student (that everyone apparently accepts as normal). Whatever happens in the final episode - love, being dumped, jail, cleared of charges or who knows - his send-off shouldn't be a small footnote in the two hour episode; he should be treated with a proper ending compared to the previous characters.
3. Chuck/Blair and Serena/Dan relationships need closure
These on-again-off-again relationships tend to pop up at the most random moments with a break-up or a make-up on the horizon. Whether they end up together or decide to part ways is irrelevant, the closure is what counts. I don't want Chuck's "I'm not a man" excuse or Serena's "I'm moving to L.A." choice but a thoughtful resolution between the couples whether it will work out or not. Though, if one of them is killed off then the decision will be made for them...
4. Georgina gets the last laugh
A part from Gossip Girl, Georgina has been my favourite villain all series. She's calculating, manipulative, hilarious, sarcastic and proud of it! If there was ever an episode where she could take the reigns and cause the most havoc to the Upper East Siders, this episode would be it.
5. The Gossip Girl reveal is a complete surprise (but not random)
Who is Gossip Girl? We'll find out later tonight. However, the identity has been an ongoing mystery for six seasons, with Georgina and Serena temporarily borrowing the title last season. The person needs to be someone I believe would WANT to be Gossip Girl (and has the power/connections to do so). It shouldn't be a complete left field individual, like the doorman or a minor recurring character who casually pops-in, but someone who can put the pieces together and tie the series with a shocking final reveal.
Stranger things do happen and this week's round just proved them.
Two more singers were sent packing and while I completely expected the eliminations, it's still a sore subject when it finally happens. Season underdog Cece Frey was the first to get the boot with the round's lowest votes and perennial second chance Diamond White followed next soon after. Both have reached the bottom of the leaderboard and sooner or later it was bound to be their time. Only two more weeks until the finals and four more acts are left to fight it out. Let's see if it's a real competition to get to the top!
TEENS (Mentored by Britney Spears)
Diamond White
No last minute save can help Diamond now. After landing in the bottom last week, she placed against Fifth Harmony to sing-off and campaign for the judges' votes - needless to say she lost. She did a good alright with her Pepsi challenge ("it's Diamond singing in a diamond!"); many had pegged her to be the next Whitney Houston. However, her performances were constantly on the safe side and never stood out compared to the other contestants. Eventually all the safe performances add up and the votes weren't enough to save her.
No last minute save can help Diamond now. After landing in the bottom last week, she placed against Fifth Harmony to sing-off and campaign for the judges' votes - needless to say she lost. She did a good alright with her Pepsi challenge ("it's Diamond singing in a diamond!"); many had pegged her to be the next Whitney Houston. However, her performances were constantly on the safe side and never stood out compared to the other contestants. Eventually all the safe performances add up and the votes weren't enough to save her.
Carly Rose Sonenclar
Carly finally lost her first place momentum to Tate. The "I-don't-need-to-vote-because-she's-safe" approach has reared its ugly head yet again and Carly fell one spot. Both her numbers this week were polarizing: I loved her version of the Justin Bieber song while the Beyonce number didn't stand out. She tends to do a lot of ballads and they do pay off but some of the songs that she chooses tend to be a little dull and repetitive. I would love if she tried something new and different.
Carly finally lost her first place momentum to Tate. The "I-don't-need-to-vote-because-she's-safe" approach has reared its ugly head yet again and Carly fell one spot. Both her numbers this week were polarizing: I loved her version of the Justin Bieber song while the Beyonce number didn't stand out. She tends to do a lot of ballads and they do pay off but some of the songs that she chooses tend to be a little dull and repetitive. I would love if she tried something new and different.
YOUNG ADULTS (Mentored by Demi Lovato)
Cece Frey
The rollercoaster has ended and Cece was sent packing. An underdog can only last so long on a show where voting determines the winner. While I did like her on the show, her last performance of "Piece Of Me" didn't impress me and I fully expected her to get voted off. Sad to see her go and it's unfortunate that Demi lost all her contestants. Maybe now that she's eliminated, Cece can reevaluate her career goals, train her voice and come back with a new song.
The rollercoaster has ended and Cece was sent packing. An underdog can only last so long on a show where voting determines the winner. While I did like her on the show, her last performance of "Piece Of Me" didn't impress me and I fully expected her to get voted off. Sad to see her go and it's unfortunate that Demi lost all her contestants. Maybe now that she's eliminated, Cece can reevaluate her career goals, train her voice and come back with a new song.
OVER 25 (Mentored by L.A. Reid)
Tate Stevens
Tate scored the top spot back from Carly this week and I did not see that coming! He's doing well in the competition but it's been very safe and repetitive with the song choices. If it wasn't for his backstory or the fact that he's a country music artist, I don't think he would be a frontrunner. Not my type of thing but oh well... the votes say he could win.
Tate scored the top spot back from Carly this week and I did not see that coming! He's doing well in the competition but it's been very safe and repetitive with the song choices. If it wasn't for his backstory or the fact that he's a country music artist, I don't think he would be a frontrunner. Not my type of thing but oh well... the votes say he could win.
GROUPS (Mentored by Simon Cowell)
Fifth Harmony
The leaderboard may change week-to-week but one thing has stayed constant: the top have stayed at the top. Fifth Harmony, whom haven't cracked the Top 3, landed in the bottom half with the lowest votes. The frankengroup had to compete in the sing-off against Diamond White for the votes and luckily, they survived. The girls have a lot to prove and I'm not sure they'll be here come finale night.
The leaderboard may change week-to-week but one thing has stayed constant: the top have stayed at the top. Fifth Harmony, whom haven't cracked the Top 3, landed in the bottom half with the lowest votes. The frankengroup had to compete in the sing-off against Diamond White for the votes and luckily, they survived. The girls have a lot to prove and I'm not sure they'll be here come finale night.
Emblem3
Emblem3 had mixed performances. Their Pepsi challenge was good but the unplugged song... wow, the blonde guy should not sing alone. Many websites had pegged the group to be in risk of elimination but they underestimated the fanbases. The boys held on to the third spot and were safe. My guess is that they'll be in the bottom next week and could face elimination or, if not, will be voted off.
Emblem3 had mixed performances. Their Pepsi challenge was good but the unplugged song... wow, the blonde guy should not sing alone. Many websites had pegged the group to be in risk of elimination but they underestimated the fanbases. The boys held on to the third spot and were safe. My guess is that they'll be in the bottom next week and could face elimination or, if not, will be voted off.
Are you sad to see Cece and Diamond gone? Post in the comments and let me know what you thought of this week's round.
On Wednesday, X Factor USA premiered a small snippet of judge Britney Spears' new music video collaboration with Black Eyed Peas frontman, Will.i.am. The new track was surprisingly really catchy and I thought it would be great to share the full music video with you all. A special note which I have to clear up is that this is not Britney's music video, it's Will.I.Am's video - she is only featured. (A lot of people don't make the clarification)
If anyone had asked me if these six contestants would be the ones this far in the game, I probably wouldn't have guessed right. A few... yes. Next week is the Pepsi Challenge where the viewers will vote which songs the contestants sing. Twitter (and it's awesome power of spoilers) has revealed which numbers were chosen and I'm quite impressed. With only three more episodes left in the season, I'm pretty much guessing next Wednesday will be ANOTHER double elimination, followed by single and then the final three.
Until then, here are my thoughts on this week's performers:
TEENS (Mentored by Britney Spears)
Diamond White
Diamond being in the bottom two wasn't a big surprise. She's played the safe route and when she tried to do an "upbeat" song, it still had a balled overtone. Being in the bottom could get her sympathy from voters. However, with an expected double elimination next week, she'll need to fight harder to rise in the rankings.
Diamond being in the bottom two wasn't a big surprise. She's played the safe route and when she tried to do an "upbeat" song, it still had a balled overtone. Being in the bottom could get her sympathy from voters. However, with an expected double elimination next week, she'll need to fight harder to rise in the rankings.
Carly Rose Sonanclar
Carly is holding on to her first place position. Though, my only concern is that fans shouldn't take this as an "I-don't-need-to-vote-because-she's-safe" approach. That's how people get voted off.
Carly is holding on to her first place position. Though, my only concern is that fans shouldn't take this as an "I-don't-need-to-vote-because-she's-safe" approach. That's how people get voted off.
YOUNG ADULTS (Mentored by Demi Lovato)
Paige Thomas
Paige had the lowest votes and she was sent home first last night. I'm surprised because this was her best number to date and she did rise on the leaderboard. Maybe the fans just gave up on her? Oh well, she's got bitter... oh, um.. bigger and better things to do. Thank you Freudian slips!
Paige had the lowest votes and she was sent home first last night. I'm surprised because this was her best number to date and she did rise on the leaderboard. Maybe the fans just gave up on her? Oh well, she's got bitter... oh, um.. bigger and better things to do. Thank you Freudian slips!
Cece Frey
Cece has made the Top 6 and the expression on the judges' faces said it all, especially Britney. I'm glad she stayed because I like Cece and I'd love to see what next week's number will be. Could she win the show? No. She most likely will be the next to go but I like that she's fighting to compete and prove people wrong.
Cece has made the Top 6 and the expression on the judges' faces said it all, especially Britney. I'm glad she stayed because I like Cece and I'd love to see what next week's number will be. Could she win the show? No. She most likely will be the next to go but I like that she's fighting to compete and prove people wrong.
OVER 25 (Mentored by L.A. Reid)
Vino Alan
Wow... it actually happened. Going into the elimination episode, I did not expect Vino to be in the bottom, let alone voted out. Vino didn't get voted out because Diamond performed better during the Sing-Off: this was the only chance to get rid of him. Vino had third place for three weeks in a row and now he fell to the bottom. Voting him off was a chance the judges couldn't resist to get one of their other acts to the finals. Smart move! Don't forget... the judges are playing their own game too.
Wow... it actually happened. Going into the elimination episode, I did not expect Vino to be in the bottom, let alone voted out. Vino didn't get voted out because Diamond performed better during the Sing-Off: this was the only chance to get rid of him. Vino had third place for three weeks in a row and now he fell to the bottom. Voting him off was a chance the judges couldn't resist to get one of their other acts to the finals. Smart move! Don't forget... the judges are playing their own game too.
Tate Stevens
Tate held onto his second place spot and is clawing his way back to the top. I'm liking Tate on the show but I'm finding him very... dull. I understand he loves his wife and he is the country music star this season. What more else is there?
Tate held onto his second place spot and is clawing his way back to the top. I'm liking Tate on the show but I'm finding him very... dull. I understand he loves his wife and he is the country music star this season. What more else is there?
GROUPS (Mentored by Simon Cowell)
Fifth Harmony
Fifth Harmony was trending on Twitter after Wednesday's episode. Sure, the other contestants have trended too but '#voteFifthHarmony' was different. Not shocking then is that they survived the vote. Popular song + social media push + touching pre-performance segment = safe week.
Fifth Harmony was trending on Twitter after Wednesday's episode. Sure, the other contestants have trended too but '#voteFifthHarmony' was different. Not shocking then is that they survived the vote. Popular song + social media push + touching pre-performance segment = safe week.
Emblem3
Emblem3 stole the third spot away from Vino... and the audience was loving it! The group is doing great on the show and they're appealing to the female vote. However, they say they play instruments and might perform with them during the next number. I would love to see that next week because it would differentiate them from the other boy-bands around the world. My guess is that they'll be in the top half next week and survive.
Emblem3 stole the third spot away from Vino... and the audience was loving it! The group is doing great on the show and they're appealing to the female vote. However, they say they play instruments and might perform with them during the next number. I would love to see that next week because it would differentiate them from the other boy-bands around the world. My guess is that they'll be in the top half next week and survive.
Were you shocked at who went home this week? Post in the comments below and let me
know what you think will happen in the remaining weeks.
These eliminations continually shock me.
Usually for singing competition shows, the elimination episodes follows a typical format where viewers can expect which contestant will be voted off. However, I've been consistently surprised at the cuts. The instant-elimination at the beginning of the results show is never whom I expect it to be. This week, two of the teens were sent packing and while I'm not shocked to see them go, the entire episode was surprising.
TEENS (Mentored by Britney Spears)
Arin Ray
Oh Arin, you never really found your place. This was his second time on the show but viewers apparently didn't like him enough to save him from the bottom pack. He tried to stand out and be something that he wasn't with the sappy love songs. Though, his obviously "edited" relationship and this week's strange song choice were the final nails in the coffin for his ouster.
Oh Arin, you never really found your place. This was his second time on the show but viewers apparently didn't like him enough to save him from the bottom pack. He tried to stand out and be something that he wasn't with the sappy love songs. Though, his obviously "edited" relationship and this week's strange song choice were the final nails in the coffin for his ouster.
Diamond White
Another ballad for Diamond. I like Diamond but the problem is that she's performing very safe songs and not taking any risks. Once contestants reach the Top 10, they need to stand out to get up the ladder. She'll do fine but needs to change things up.
Another ballad for Diamond. I like Diamond but the problem is that she's performing very safe songs and not taking any risks. Once contestants reach the Top 10, they need to stand out to get up the ladder. She'll do fine but needs to change things up.
Beatrice Miller
Beatrice did not take her elimination well. First she lost her voice, then ended up in the bottom two before being voted off by the judges. It's sad to see a child cry and that's the point - she's a child. She can cry on stage if she wants.
Beatrice did not take her elimination well. First she lost her voice, then ended up in the bottom two before being voted off by the judges. It's sad to see a child cry and that's the point - she's a child. She can cry on stage if she wants.
Carly Rose Sonenclar
Carly finally reached first place. Her performance was amazing and I don't need to spend time talking about it. We'll see you at the finals Carly.
Carly finally reached first place. Her performance was amazing and I don't need to spend time talking about it. We'll see you at the finals Carly.
YOUNG ADULTS (Mentored by Demi Lovato) Paige Thomas
Paige's performance was mixed. Sad songs and ballads don't have the same impact without the emotion behind them. Lucky for her that she rose in the rankings to survive the bottom. I don't think she would have survived the judges' vote if thins didn't go her way.
Cece Frey
Bottom two for Cece this round. Her momentum from last week didn't continue and she fell down the leaderboard. Though, the strangest thing is that the judges voted to keep her in. I expected them to vote her out based on their comments. I never know what to expect come Thursday night.
Bottom two for Cece this round. Her momentum from last week didn't continue and she fell down the leaderboard. Though, the strangest thing is that the judges voted to keep her in. I expected them to vote her out based on their comments. I never know what to expect come Thursday night.
Over 25 (Mentored by L.A. Reid)
Vino Alan
Ugh... Vino... I don't know. He has talent, I'll give you that, but his song choices make me question how he'll be post-show. My expectations are low while fans obviously love him to keep him third once again.
Ugh... Vino... I don't know. He has talent, I'll give you that, but his song choices make me question how he'll be post-show. My expectations are low while fans obviously love him to keep him third once again.
Tate Stevens
Tate slipped to second place this week. I'm starting to like Tate for the sheer fact that he is a genuinely nice guy. His performances are getting better and I'm pretty much guessing that he'll be in the finals as well.
Tate slipped to second place this week. I'm starting to like Tate for the sheer fact that he is a genuinely nice guy. His performances are getting better and I'm pretty much guessing that he'll be in the finals as well.
GROUPS (Mentored by Simon Cowell)
Fifth Harmony
Fifth Harmony's song choice was a little questionable. They've taken the safe route like Diamond and it's starting to show in the rankings. They need to step it up and win back the buzz they accumulated from the judges' house episode. Fans need a reason to vote and being just average isn't enough.
Fifth Harmony's song choice was a little questionable. They've taken the safe route like Diamond and it's starting to show in the rankings. They need to step it up and win back the buzz they accumulated from the judges' house episode. Fans need a reason to vote and being just average isn't enough.
Emblem3
Emblem3 is quickly rising up the ranks. Girls are voting in groups to help them out and I wouldn't be surprised to see them take third place next week. At this point the group is most likely a sure bet to survive and earn the "wildcard" third spot for the finals.
Emblem3 is quickly rising up the ranks. Girls are voting in groups to help them out and I wouldn't be surprised to see them take third place next week. At this point the group is most likely a sure bet to survive and earn the "wildcard" third spot for the finals.
What did you
think of the Top 10? Post in the comments below and let me
know about which performer you think will be sent packing next.