The top 14 is right there on the edge, you know?
And this season ofAmerican Idolis such a beast, so scooting from that top 14 to the top 10?
Its harder than ever.
Credit: Eric McCandless/ABC
She throws out some seriousSelenavibes, while also telling her own very distinct immigrant story.
Luke and Lionel are big fans, but Katy suggests that theres still more to prove.
Marcio Donaldson, Its a Miracle
Oh Marcio, you lovable powerhouse.
Taking on Barry Manilow and making it relatable is such anIdolpower move.
Thats what Marcio is doing, with an exciting performance (in some incredible floral print pants).
Im not sure anyone is meeting their full potential on night one, but Marcio should be fine.
Hes got a big fan in Lionel and Katy.
Mara Justine, This Is Me
Mara has so many faces.
Thats not an insult.
Shes constantly startled or excited or worried.
With all that being said, This Is Me is a bit of a monster for her to tackle.
Its a tricky night because if the performance is turned down like 14 notches, Mara could shine.
There may not be another performer here who looks like a pop star that people will stan.
Ada Vox, The Show Must Go On
I am still stunned that a drag queen is onAmerican Idol.
Im also stunned that drag queen has had some of the biggest standout moments of the season thus far.
Theres something wonderfully perfect about Ada choosing Queen for this first big performance.
In feathers and rhinestones, she commands the stage with an insane determination.
Catie Turner, Take Me to Church
Fierce dress.
Must be Catie Turner.
Her following Ada (or vice versa) seems like a total death wish, right?
Theyre both big performers.
But after Adas big moment, Catie turned it all on its head.
Catie took a moment and made it big without having to truly make it big.
Ada is a performer.
Catie is a star.
There is honestly no one this season, so far, that has the ability to surpass Caties talent.
She doesnt miss a beat, a note, a moment to show off her talent.
The judges second that notion, but when youre that talented, all you have to do is sing.
Keep it up, Catie.
Cade Foehner, Black Magic Woman
Cade is so far removed from this competition.
The past three performers may very well be your Top 3 this season.
Dennis Lorenzo, In My Blood
Okay, Shawn Mendes.
A surprising song choice, considering that it takes so long to get to the meat of the song.
Every performance should be treated with urgency, as if you only get 20 seconds.
Maddie Poppe, Homeward Bound
I love that Maddie Poppe is doing her own thing.
In a pack of big performers, Maddies choice of Homeward Bound is perfection.
Her thoughtful approach and control of high notes makes her such an interesting artist to watch.
Jurnee, Bang Bang
Well.
Jurnee taking on Bang Bang is, for lack of a better term, a real journey.
Singing the parts of three women is daunting enough.
Singing Jessie J, Nicki Minaj, and Ariana Grande?
Jonny Brenns, This is Gospel
Jonny singing Panic!
At the Disco after taking a ballet class is peakAmerican Idol, yall.
He wasnt trying to be Brendon.
Michael J. Woodard, Titanium
Admittedly, Im such a Michael fan.
Like, hes such a quirky young prince.
And tonight, he tackles Sia, which is a feat.
With a unique take on the song, Michaels performance is so stunningly good when its good.
And cringeworthy in the moments where he seems to forget the words.
If he doesnt make it to the Top 10, its a damn shame.
Gabby Barrett, The Climb
Well, after tonights performance, take note: Dream has two syllables.
Donning her best Miranda Lambert-fringed mini-dress, Gabby takes on Miley Cyrus hit, The Climb.
It just feels exactly like the performance I was expecting her to give.
Gabby is a consistent 10.
So, who are you rooting for?
Whos a shoo-in for the Top 10 and who could use those bonus votes?
Tomorrow, the results are announced, and well finally have our live show contenders.
