'American Idol' banter: Jason Castro rides off with the fun parade

We’ve hit a strange spot in this year’s “American Idol” saga, a sort of creeping lull that bodes of something sinister. It’s the moment on the battlefield when four soldiers are sharing a cigarette, and kaboom! A grenade goes off. The mood, I think, isn’t just a matter of real favorites departing, now that the finale is almost here.

The question hangs in the air: is “Idol” working? Or do dropping ratings and the strange enervation of the show’s Final Four contenders suggest that it has lost the potential to tap into pop’s fundamental pheromone, cited again and again by exhausted "Idol" strivers as a goal: simple, fleeting fun?

Jason Castro had more fun than any other contestant has managed in weeks, doing his hippie dance as he romped through “I Shot the Sheriff” after being eliminated. Good for him for reprising a song the judges clearly thought was inappropriate -- a song he obviously loved, and actually sang fairly competently, whatever the panel says.

Think about “I Shot the Sheriff” for a minute.  A huge crossover hit for Eric Clapton in 1974, the song definitely sounded more Bob Marley-esque in Castro’s hands. Its lyric is about killing a police officer; its rhythms evoke the off-kilter, skanky reggae of the late Jamaican master’s most revolutionary songs. This choice was way edgier than David Cook’s post-Stone Temple Pilots reworkings of R&B.

Had Castro chosen a more conciliatory Marley song, like “No Woman, No Cry” (also on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll), Syesha might have departed before he did. But the good-natured nonconformist, apparently already sensing doom, chose to put his own pleasure first. His loosey-goosey rendition offered an exceedingly rare “Idol” sighting: the kind of spontaneity musicians actually conjure when playing live nearly anywhere but a television studio.

I wanted Jason to be eliminated because I thought his super-sleepy energy was damping the fire of his more vocally gifted and showman-like competitors. Now I’m not so sure. There’s something wrong up there: David Cook seems truly drained, David Archuleta’s melismatic runs grow more extreme as his anxiety visibly mounts, and Syesha Mercado is so desperate to figure out why she’s special that she’s taken to embarrassing herself with sweeping declarations about her “Idol” journey’s relationship to the slightly more momentous contest taking place on the primary circuit.

A quick defense of Syesha: I know some people were horrified that she turned the civil rights anthem “A Change Is Gonna Come” into a vehicle for self-aggrandizement. She didn’t make her comparison tactfully, but she’s not the only entertainer to relate personal success to the larger matter of uplifting the race.

Kanye West’s notorious line in the song “Good Morning” –- “I’m like the fly Malcolm X, buy any jeans necessary” –- may or may not have been a joke, but Mary J. Blige was dead serious when she told “Blender" magazine, “My God wants me to bling.” And I’ll bet Halle Berry’s emotional Academy Award speech upon becoming the first African American to win Best Actress was somewhere in the back of Syesha’s mind when she made her comments.

Of course, Syesha’s hardly the first nonwhite woman to do well on “Idol.” But she stands alone in that category now.  This year’s wide range of personalities could be one reason for the current aura of melancholy –- as their numbers dwindle, each hopeful seems more isolated within his or her niche.

Previous seasons had variety, but there was a sense that the "Idols" were learning from each other, or at least enjoying friendly rivalries. Now, each fits into a slot so particular that it’s hard to see how they even relate. What can Cook, a grown man who even tried (vainly) to inject some sex into the show this week with a growly “Hungry Like the Wolf,” really have to say to the virginal Archuleta? Can Syesha, whose charisma has unfurled alongside a disturbingly ruthless pageant-queen personality, stand to be around either of them, or is Cookie too grimy and Archie too naive?

The “Idols” have to love each other for the show’s formula to work. They have to project real glee when they joke around in those silly Ford commercials, and cry in each other’s arms when Ryan gives one the ax. Without camaraderie –- without some whiff of fun, even in the hardest moments -- “Idol” no longer feels like an agent of magical transformation. It feels like an endless casting call.

No one wants to watch careerist kids fighting to be become pawns in a dying music industry. If the last few episodes of this season continue to sink in that direction, it will end in a sad finale, no matter who wins. Come on, Final Three. Bring back the fun. Keep that bit of Jason Castro’s spirit with you.

- Ann Powers
(photo courtesy of Fox)

Comments

[jbwrinkles]

Jason should have been gone a long time ago. The only thing he had was a smile, hair and all the young girls. No strenght to his voice...

[EmilyTess]

I'm disappointed that Jason left before Syesha. His voice is lovely, soothing, lilting, and full of flavor. I'd love to hear his rendition of anything, from Twinkle Little Star to New York, New York. He has a Willie Nelson speaking/singing tone that just caresses the ear. Syesha, conversely, keeps yelling at me week after week, despite what a good girl I am. She's so self-absorbed that she repeated, on television, (because what's in her head must be even more extreme) twice, (despite trying to ameliorate it last night with a presidential reference) that the Civil Right Movement is analagous to her Idol struggle. There are no words for this level of social cluelessness; it is the indelible tattoo of indifference, apathy, and self-love that is inbred into her generation. I fear that the audience will tire of Archuleta's Doolittle-esque self-effacement and vote him off, leaving a Cook vs. Mercado finale. Then, frightening as it sounds, we could have a repeat of last year, when a screeching young gal who is barely vocally gifted enough to perform in a high school musical, beat out an originator with a smooth as silk voice like Lewis. Thank goodness the winner doesn't really matter. Elliot Yamin continues to be the only standout talent to ever come out of this show, and he also went home too soon.

[kiki]

Your are so OTT in this article. It is not that serious. A show like this does not need so much philosophical analysis.

[Diane]

I LOVE American Idol! Why does the media just LOVE to talk about declining ratings?! AI still has the top ratings.

[DAvsDC]

I've faithfully watched all but one season of A.I. -- and I have to say, I disagree with you. It seems to me like they all get along very well-- and the broad variety of style is what has kept me tuned in every week. They are all incredibly talented -- and very different artistically. That's what has made the show interesting to me personally. Much more so than in prior season (last year was a joke in my opinion...).

If these kids aren't having fun, it's because the producers have brought in some pretty old-time mentors that they can't relate to. Hopefully that picks up for next season -- but in the meantime, I am enjoying the talent more this year than in any other year.

If it comes down to a battle of the Davids for the finale - I think it's going to be a big toss up -- they're both so talented in distinctly different ways. That said, Syesha may very well make it because she's mounting votes with each fallen Idol. If that happens, all I can hope is that David fans continue to vote for the remaining David -- because since the top 24 those two have been standouts, and one of them really deserves to win. (IMHO)

[Susan]

I don't know if I agree with you about the 'aura' of the show.

As someone that has been watching Idol from the beginning I think that this is one of the best seasons yet BECAUSE of the variety of the contestants. Additionally, I do not feel that the show is about them loving or learning from each other. It's about winning. And the fact that all of these singers are so unique allows them to really compete instead of being pseudo-karaoke contestants at a local bar.

I think we will see the two David's in the final week.
I predict Sayesha will have a fantabulous broadway career, maybe even screen ops for musicals and will win Tony's and Golden Globes.

Young David may not be able to win this - he is by far the best vocalist but Man David is a star - and he really shines.

Either way, all three will be stars - and that's why I don't get caught up in who takes the title - because out of all of the idol contestants Daughtry is the biggest thing to come out of idol in the last 7 years - well, he and Ms. Underwood.

Oh, and Jason - He's happy this morning. Jason went to Hollywood for the exposure he needed to catapult his uniqueness and style. He may not sell a bazillion albums, but he will be a star in his own right because he's just cool like that.

[sils]

Jason went out on his own terms, and after witnessing PaulaGate did not allow AI to take his soul. Simon and Co. did everything in their power to try to bring him down, but Jason made it clear that their comments and opinions have lost all meaning. His choice of an anti-establishment song to make that final stand was brilliant. He even pointed at the judges in the original performance, which was quickly edited for the "official" video. His message to the Idol "sheriff" was very clear, and I applaud him for his courage. Particularly when he made sure to sing that very song at the end as they tried to avoid potential conflict by choosing the other one. I will always be your fan, Jason, and I will never watch that manipulating joke of a show again. Thanks Jason!

[el ardizzi]

Great article. Very well written and right on the money. The contestants and the entire american idol organization are taking themselves way too seriously and this has caused the entertainment factor to suffer. It has become obvious (look at the inane group songs that the contestants are made to sing. complete with kindergarten choreography) that the entire exercise is to find a "pop star" that appeals to 12 year olds, much more than an interesting musical artist.

[Jean]

I totally agree with you Ann. AI has an agenda, manipulating the show and the viewers to achieve the outcome they want. For the last several weeks they have blungened Jason Castro on AI and outside of the show as well. They have tried to break his spirit and mold him into something he's not. But, AI's paulagate last week was the biggest slap in the face that they would do whatever they could to sabatoge him and his career if need be for their perfect David/David final. Does FOX and it's sponsors think watching 2 grown men humiliate and bully a 21 y/o young man following his dream is family entertainment?!? Well, it is 'utterly atrocious' literally making me sick to my stomach.

Honestly, Jason was the only reason I watched. Finally a contestant who's not a big belter, truly love his style and voice. He brought humor and personality to the show like no other. With that said, I must say I really enjoyed "I shot the sheriff" I gaurantee if the judges would have praised Jason for "stepping out of your comfor zone" "more energy" blah blah blah then the sheep would have followed. Talk about daring and edgier, this song definately does not fit the tight ass mold of AI, which makes me applaud Jason, the artist he is, for deciding to go out on his terms with a message...

Sheriff john brown always hated me,
For what, I dont know:
Every time I plant a seed,
He said kill it before it grow -
He said kill them before they grow.

Bravo Jason Castro for staying true to your self! Can't wait for your CD

[Kathy]

Excellent article. You hit the nail on the head. The fun of the show has gone forever, not just because Jason is gone, but, because of the slimy tactics of the show this year. I'm referring to the obvious pimping of a David/David final and the blatant bashing of certain contestants in public. I have no interest in the final three. It really has lost its appeal.

[Amy]

Oh my gosh, did someone actually say something nice about Castro? Were you, Ann Powers, not the one who not more than a week or two ago was calling for Castro's outing and declaring you were ready for a big banquet of belters or am I mixing you up with the dozens of other "writers/journalists" who had pretty much nothing good to say about the kid?

Castro was the only one of the contestants who to me seemed to be having fun (except for when he was being verbally castrated by Simon, Randy, Nigel, too many of the media and those who regurgitated what Simon, Randy, Nigel and the media said). He was so unpolished, so goofy, charming, talented and so darn happy (and a lot more intelligent than he was given credit for). When he was on the stage not only did he make me believe what he was singing, move me with emotion; he also brought this infectious joy to the stage. He loved to sing, he loved what he was doing and it showed. He invited you in to sit a spell and hear what he had to say and to feel it too. Oh, I know I am getting all sappy and I admit I shed a few tears when I learned he had been voted off after the disgraceful way he had been treated, in the past few weeks especially. I know it is just a show, but I felt robbed. Jason deserved better than he got from American Idol and from the media. I sure hope he recieves the homecoming and the subsequent career he deserves. Mixed with that sense of being cheated was relief that now maybe, just maybe he won't be used as AI's favorite punching bag. But during his time on the show he made me tune into a program I had scoffed at before, drew me in, in a way I had never experienced before---ever. Some may shake their heads in disbelief, but as many of my fellow fans will say, you either get him or you don't. I'll miss him, but I hope this is not the last we hear of Jason Castro and his special unique talent. Wherever he goes may God bless him in his endeavors!

[Kat O]

I couldnt disagree more. I think each person brings something different and that's what is making this AI season great. My only concern it that everyone judges/producers seems to always favor David A. Yes he's a cute talented kid but his so immature he can't even answer a question without looking clueless. Last night someone was complimenting David Cook and Ryan immediately changed the focus to David A. For the first time, I'm feeling the winner may be "pre-determinded". However, even if the best singer/performer is David Cook. The goofy neurotic little David seems like he's the shoo in to win. Syehsha has learned and grown through the competition. Probably the most improved. The two Davids were already naturals.
In the end, David Cook will be the winner. Remember Tamayra, Doughtry, Aiken, Locke, Hudson? They didn't win....or did they?????

[Bette]

Here's the problem with Idol this season................predictability. I'm not talking about the contestants or the voting so much as the same stupid "song and dance" numbers before every Wednesday's show and the phone calls from fans asking stupid questions..........they are both boring. Why make the contestants learn another song so that they can parade themselves as a group? Don't they have enough to memorize each week as individuals? When do they have time to sleep and relax? They all look exhausted and ready to go home.

[Caroline]

I'm sick of everyone attacking Syesha. All she said was that the song is meaningful to her, because she looks around at the world, and sees big changes. The first black or woman candidate for present IS a big deal. She didn't say it had anything to do with herSELF, just that she notices it about the world, so a song like "A Change is Gonna Come" resonates. That's not a bad thing to say. It's a smart and interesting thing to say. Problem is, she gives such weird, messy interviews all along that we are poised to hate whatever she says, even if she doesn't say anything wrong.

[Mackhatter]

Ann, please.

AI is a lot of things, but at least it's bringing back musical talent to an industry sadly bereft of it of late. After years of "camera ready" people who were chosen for how they could look in video, with music simply a side-note, we're finally able to put several people into the industry each year who at least can earn their keep through ability- and that's musical ability.

Jason said it best when he admitted that his experience killed him. That and an uncanny ability to not understand the rules of the game- which he surely didn't. You can point to his fanciful, entertaining, out-of-the-mold attitude if you want to as being refreshing; that's fine, if you can remember the damn song lyrics- on two different occasions. Jason is a lightweight, and he's playing with the big dogs. His welcome was about 4 weeks overstayed.

[Michele]

I liked Jason more, sooooo much more than the creepy, eye-closed zombie kid, David A. This season has really disappointed me and proven that there is no public choice, just judge's choice. The 3 judges have bizarrely been pandering the mediocre, boring and creepy David A. all season, even though he is CORNY, DULL and weird. His stage presence is a total turnoff, like he's a cult kid, eyes-glazed, generic-looking and strangely ecstatic sans real personality. I have already actually stopped watching, other than flipping back to try to catch David Cook and Jason, who I thought was fun. However, I don't watch the lousy Wednesday shows at all. They are too goofy for words. Randy Jackson has inexplicably been poisoned by the kool aid and acts like he's scripted. His over exuberance for little David is disturbing. That kid is so not worth it and since it's obvious they've signed him up as their record cow, why even think this show is anything but a joke? Last year, Jordan Sparks who hasn't set the world on fire. The year before that, the old guy with the grey hair... forget his name he was so irrelevant. So this year, they're trying to hypnotize the public to believe that the very mediocre goofy kid is the best thing since white bread. The trouble is, he stinks. So does the show. Good on Jason for telling the viewers not to keep him in. He knew the fix was in, so why go through the motions?

[Michele]

I liked Jason more, sooooo much more than the creepy, eye-closed zombie kid, David A. This season has really disappointed me and proven that there is no public choice, just judge's choice. The 3 judges have bizarrely been pandering the mediocre, boring and creepy David A. all season, even though he is CORNY, DULL and weird. His stage presence is a total turnoff, like he's a cult kid, eyes-glazed, generic-looking and strangely ecstatic sans real personality. I have already actually stopped watching, other than flipping back to try to catch David Cook and Jason, who I thought was fun. However, I don't watch the lousy Wednesday shows at all. They are too goofy for words. Randy Jackson has inexplicably been poisoned by the kool aid and acts like he's scripted. His over exuberance for little David is disturbing. That kid is so not worth it and since it's obvious they've signed him up as their record cow, why even think this show is anything but a joke? Last year, Jordan Sparks who hasn't set the world on fire. The year before that, the old guy with the grey hair... forget his name he was so irrelevant. So this year, they're trying to hypnotize the public to believe that the very mediocre goofy kid is the best thing since white bread. The trouble is, he stinks. So does the show. Good on Jason for telling the viewers not to keep him in. He knew the fix was in, so why go through the motions?

[Nelson]

Ann, one thing about living in LA and being surrounded by media & entertainment, we tend to concern ourselves too much with that stuff. I lived in the Pacific Northwest for five years and other parts of the country. I found that people in America don't give a damn about what happens behind the scenes....you know, tension backstage between contestants, who should stay, who should be elimated. People just turn on the tube to be entertained and when its over they go back to their lives

[Deborah Harrison]

I was saddened to see Jason Castro leave. It was inevitable though. I am a huge fan of his and believe he was the only American Idol to stay true to himself despite the pressures of the media for him to cut his hair, become more mainstream etc.
I think Jason just became "tired." He is such an authentic person that the constant schedules, repeatedly dumb interviews with the same questions being asked over and over and the fakiness of Hollywood took its toll. His voice was tired. Check the clips from the beginning to the end and you will see what I mean. He wanted out, he had enough of being away from his family and thrust into the increasingly glaring spotlight. I even saw one reporter ask to smell his hair to see if it stunk! What an insult! In this day of piercings, and multiple tatoos (Carly) he was a throw back to the innocent days of peace and love.

[Katie]

I always wish the best to all of these young people who go on this journey of American Idol, but its become like a death march instead of the Hallelujah Trail. The Idols this season seemed terrified of the judges from the getgo. The judges seemed, and still do, like they are bored stiff and want to be anywhere else, and from what I have read, the producers are cramming even more into the idols schedules. Sure, the fame is great, but usually it is not thrust upon ordinary people within a few months.

The "fun" of the show left after season 5. Taylor Hicks was fearless, he constantly said how happy he was to be there, and if you go back and look at performances that season, the judges actually smiled alot. Taylor picked the songs he wanted, and to heck with what anyone thought. Go back and watch his Living For the City, to see the audience and judge reactions. Then watch his Play That Funky Music White Boy followed by Something. He has paid dearly for it though, by being the shows pariah.

I hope that Jason Castro will go on like Taylor, sing what he wants to , be himself and live his life like Taylor is doing and many of the others who have been on Idol. It's sad that the show takes low potshots at its babies though, instead of nurturing them.

[cs]

If David Cook does not win this you know this show is "fixed".................

[sweetsmoke]

To Michele - that "gray haired guy" was a Mr. Taylor Hicks and let me tell you he brought more life and energy to that show that it had ever seen. They have never recouped since Season 5 ended. He is a fun, gifted performer and one of the reasons that season was the peak, both in viewership and tour revenue.

[Debbie]

Oh it's sad to see Jason go.
He made me want to watch this series,he brought a new side to the "talent" show. With his shyness,quirkiness and those infamoues dreads.
He did not conform by cutting his hair or choosing the diva songs,but instead kept to what he wanted to do .I admire him for that,and believe he will have a fruitful career ahead of him.
It was inevitable that he wouldgo soon,after the judges started basically packing his bags and ordering a cab for him.
I hope now that David Cook wins,as he too has an individuality to him,he is true to himself and shows a different genre not often seen in these programs.

Good luck Cookie and Jason=]

[karen]

From the very start I found Jason to be enigmatic. Was this young man with the pretty face just totally clueless, a natural, an innocent lost in the sea of rabid I-wanna-be-a-star? He isn't a GREAT singer if you talk about range and all that. But neither is James Taylor, or Jim Croce, or even Bob Marley for that matter. Wait, wait before you tie me to a stake and stone me, I don't mean to say I don't LOVE those I just mentioned But I don't get it, they make the contestants sing Neil DIamond songs or Dolly Parton songs, when obviously some of them aren't cut out to sing such numbers. I mean really, do we ask Bob Marley to sing "Suspicious Minds" and then Simon gets to say "THAT"S ELVIS. You don't touch Elvis"? What? They confuse me. They say take a song, make it your own. When you do, they say NO NO YOU DON'T DO THAT? What?

They ask is this a singing contest ot a popularity contest? Well, if it was a singing contest then don't ask the American people to judge, get the professionals from the music business to judge and stop with the texting. But then, how will it make money? So obviously it's a popularity contest, and when Simon or Randy says "America got it wrong tonight" just means that he's telling the Americans what to like. But then of course, the texting public is also swayed by what the judges say, or don't say.

My bet, David Cooke gets booted out next week and it'll be between the kid and The One Who Feels She is Already a Star.

My one wish - that the judges don't manipulate the industry to destroy Jason who wouldn't play along. I personally would love that buy his music. Songs like Hallelujah, Daydream Believer, Wildflower, even Stairway to Heaven.

I've never seen Randy and Simon so mean and so angry as last Tuesday. I usually agree with most of what Simon says, but this time he were so appallingly mean. And though they have said mean things before it didn't have the spite that was there on Tuesday.

I am so proud that Jason rose above them all, and kept his dignity and composure and that delightful shrug-and-smile. Beautiful personality.

[stella]

Jason is great: his personality, charming, fun, "unique" the whole package. Different syle, good voice. I voted for him, many, many times. Archuleta is a good singer but something is missing. Still missing Carly and Amanda.

[Tom Becker]

I've only watched American Idol for a few years, hooked on it by Elliott Yamin since I like jazz. I think it's great that talent has a venue where it can be discovered. My comments on this season...David Cook is definitely music I'll buy and I think if he leaves soon without becoming TCO, it will only reinforce his creativity in the type of music he puts out. Syesha used to bug me because she seemed kind of cocky. But I think her true personality is coming out now and her singing seems more relaxed with more of her personality coming through, which is good. Not to mention, great smile, excellent legs and a very pretty girl. She can dance.

But....I think David Archuleta has an incredible voice and would be able to be molded into any type of music genre the AI folk have in mind. He's been very consistent and, though too vanilla for most, I think he deserves to be AI.. Not sure that I would buy his music...probably just pick a few Itunes that I liked...like his Imagine version.

BTW..I loved Dolly Parton...62 years old and still making good music even though her voice is shaky at times...doesn't matter when you have that much presence on stage. Her catalogue of songs is amazing!

[NCapo]

I truly think Jason Castro has the most potential out of the bunch. He is unique and offers something new and different to the music world. The 3 others are just clones of past idol contestants. I am 42 years old and I am a fan of Jason for his artistry not his looks.
Unfortunately it appears that the AI judges have attempted to manipulate the outcome by guiding the American public with their commments or Ai has just ignoring the vote tally completely and followed their own agenda. We will never know for sure. For weeks it was apparent to me that Jason was not their favorite so last night was no surprise. Just like Chris Daughtery I think Jason will emerge as the true star with the brightest future. For me I think I have had enough of this show now. It has been too painful to watching the judges pre-determined favorites. Jason please make an album soon I'll be waiting!!

[Francesca]

I am so happy Jason is gone, he couldn't even sing and that dreadful hair was so distrating. the talented person on AI is David Archuleta now he can sing and hopefully he will win american idol!

[susan alba]

Does anyone else think this way? Jason was the last truly "ameture contestant" , Syesha is a model /actress, and has appeared in "public" before , David A won star search, and David C has like 6 albums , check out amazon. Jason was the only one with a unique voice! I'm not bashing the others but COME ON the judges weren't even trying to hide how bad they wanted him off the show, they were nicer to Sanjaya, who could not sing in tune to save his life. Is A.I about the judges idea of who should win, or the publics? I say BAA BAA BAA BAA to the public, Jason was my favorite, and I bet he ends up selling more records then the other 3 put together, I won't watch the rest of the season , it's ruined for me.

[soccer grandma]

When Jason sang Memories, it was the first time I paid attention to the lyrics and was not overwhelmed by the melody. He made sense of an overworked song. Too bad he is gone. Loved the hair!!

[Moonstars]

Jason was original and did not want to change his image or character just because American Idol views their “Idol” to be clean cut, happy-go-lucky, and “the next best thing”. Jason was the complete opposite of what they were looking for. He had a good chance of winning the show early on in the season singing songs like Hallelujiah, Over the Rainbow, etc. He was even a Simon favorite, which he stated on his appearance on Oprah. However, as the show continued, it was blatantly obvious that American Idol wanted the two David’s to win. When Jason saw that, I think he lost his motivation and didn’t care so much anymore.

On another note, last week or so there was a picture floating around with Castro apparently smoking pot. Now even before that picture, I am sure there were a lot of people who assumed he smoked, which is fine. We all know, however, that Idol can not have a pot smoker. Once this picture came out, they did not want to have any ties with Castro. They knew there would eventually be an incident where Castro would be caught with possession of Marijuana. Idol God forbid, can’t be associated with that subsequently setting up Jason Castro’s fall.

I love Jason Castro but I will agree that he didn’t do the best on Tuesday. However, everyone should stop overreacting that he lost his lyrics because David Archuleta and Brooke White did as well. I do not like at all how they treated Jason last night. They did not give him a decent farewell as they have done with the other contestants. The judges did not bother to give any advice and the band didn’t even start him off properly when he sang his last song.

American Idol is too systemized and calculated to actually be a show where people’s votes really count. They put Castro to sing before David A. because they knew that Castro vocally did not come up to par as David A. They never give Syesha real credibility on her performance because they are setting up their finale for the two David’s. It’s all fixed.

[domii]

I totally disagree with Ann. This season has a variety of different talents. Jason is natural, charming and fun, but his vocals are limited and suitable only for soft melodies. He would have been gone much earlier if not for his charm and easy-going style. David Archuleta is good only for the slow songs. The ones with all-round singing talents are David Cook and Syesha. They can sing any genre of songs. But then David Archuleta has the support of thousands of teenage fans. Anyway, season 7 is much better than season 6 which is forgettable.

[Debbie]

Jason did have a lot of fun!!! He was very unique in his music and presentation..good for him!!! He must think they are all nuts on Idol!!!!!!!!!

David A. is too overrated. He is a young kid and needs to grow in experience, charisma and the "IT" factor.

Syesha, well, uh.......should've left before Michael Johns, Brooke and Kristi.

David Cook is awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[missing_jason_already]

The fun is gone -- Tuesdays and Wednesdays are open for me now that Jason won't be on AI to make me laugh at his comments or thrill me with his voice. My favorite memory will be his last laugh of pure joy while singing his farewell song -- go in peace and with God, Jason -- you have brightened this old lady's life for a short time and I thank you for it. Now go make some music I can buy!!!

[Doris]

Jean and Amy have said my feelings about Jason exactly, but more eloquently than I could. Jason is unique and talented beyond any of the others. I think the fix was in the night of Paulagate, if not before. Then, Tuesday night Simon and Randy had to stick it to him even more. I think the AI producers and their record company, 19 Entertainment, wanted Jason gone because he wouldn't fit in with their little pop music theme. Jason is better off without them and I believe he will be more successful than most of their artists.

I admire Jason for his humor and courage and not letting them get to him. He is going to be successful. I heard Jason's full version of "Mr. Tambourine Man" on YouTube and it was excellent. I also loved "I Shot the Sheriff". I had never heard it before, but Jason made me love it.

I am not a teeny-bopper with a crush on a handsome 21 year old singer. I will be 60 next month and I know what I like. I like Jason Castro and I don't like American Idol judges anymore.

[DC]

I just listened to Jason's full version of Mr. Tambourine Man on YouTube and it was excellent. The fix was in to get rid of Jason last week during Paulgate, if not before. They were afraid they might have to give Jason a recording contract and he didn't fit the AI mold. Jason will do better without them anyway. He was so courageous and brave to go out on his terms, not theirs.

I used to like Simon, but not since he crucified Jason in front of millions of people. Then he had to tell David A. that he could have whistled his song and been better than Jason. Just more jabs to influence the public. He did influence the public, but not against Jason, against himself. He showed his true colors. I don't think he and Randy have ever said anything that hateful to any contestant before. Ryan didn't even ask the judges to give Jason some advice, like he usually does to the leaving contestant. Maybe Ryan was afraid of what they might say to him. Jason will have the last laugh. He will be remembered for his talent, humor, easy-going manner, and holding his tongue when in front of the judges. But, I did love his comment to Simon, "I was thinking Bob Marley"!!

[DARLENE SALTZ]

I LIKE DAVID A. I HOPE HE WINS AI. HE'S SO CUTE AND MODEST AND TALENTED. HE HAS THE LOOKS AND THE VOICE. YOU JUST WANT TO HUG HIM AND HUG HIM. I FEEL HE'LL BE A GREAT ROLE MODEL FOR THE YOUNG TEENS. TODAY, THAT'S VERY VERY IMPORTANT.

JASON'S VOCALS WEREN'T GOOD ENOUGH. HE HAD THE PRETTIEST BLUE EYES AND GREAT COMPLEXION, BUT NOT GOOD ENOUGH VOCALLY AS THE OTHERS. I DIDN'T CARE FOR HIS CHOICE OF SONG, "I SHOT THE SHERIFF." NOT APPROPRIATE WHEN YOUR TRYING TO WIN. IT MADE ME FEEL HE DELIBERATELY WANTED OUT AND MAYBE HE DELIBERATELY FORGOT THE LYRICS TO THE TAMBERINE MAN.

VOTE FOR DAVID A.

[Joe]

What a racist article :O. You could tell syesha was not being cocky, and she was not saying it because she feels she a star, she was just being honest. Thats how she connected with the song and theres no cockiness in it. emilytess, how can you just generalize a generation and asume what she meant like that? This is ludicrious.

[CS]

I loved Bo Bice last night! He seems like the real deal between the advice he gave on the show and his insights in the new book on making it in the music business - Make Me A Star. Loved him, Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood's advice in the book and that they're alongside music moguls like Reba McEntire and Keith Urban. All the Idol finalists should read it...especially where it talks about what to do if you don't win a music contest. Look at Bo...he didn't win and he's still a huge star!!!

[Kim]

Rock on Jason Castro. You are the REAL winner in my book. My family and friends are done with AI and we've declared you the winner...Our winner! You were the last original talent on the show...your music is awesome and your charm and energy brightens our lives. Can't wait until your albums come out...thanks for the experience. It's been delightful!!!

[lilc0204]

lets get something straight everyone. Jason was unique but couldnt sing for his life! Are u people deaf! coming from a family of muscians u would agree he cant sing! I liked him but he cant win. As for david archueleta , the boy can sing. Seasha can too , but she is a little cocky in her attitude. people dont like that. David is humble .David cook might win too. When it comes down to it, the person who can sing the best should win. Its a singing competition.

[michelle johnson]

I only watched the show cuz of Jason....he has a warm, rich, soft, wonderful voice...have you listened to his studio versions....Perfection....he WILL make a cd....and it will be wonderful...I'm glad he isn't on there anymore to be bashed for just being himself....he's the greatest...that boring show was damn lucky to have him....WE ALL WERE!

[Lilc0204@aol.com]

o.k lets get something straight! no racism here! I love every race. All im saying is Seasha has a liitle cokkyness to her! The girl can sing great! However the way she comes off can be sickenig. Everyone up there can sing. I dont think jasons voice was up to par with the rest and i think a lot of people could agree with that! My personal opionin is david Archulate has the best voice period. and is humble, it hasnt gone to his head!

[Sandra]

If you honestly believe that David ARchuleta is not going to win American Idol because he is too young and the "real man David Cook" will win, you are in fantasy land. Get over it. David Cook is not going to date any of you (the fantasy stops here for the Word Nerds who adore loud rockers). Needless to say we have waaaaaaaaaaaay too many loud rockers in their late twenties (not too unique) and not many young male teen idols with a clear and BIG VOICE. Much more marketable and extremely unique. If you do not like his style, do not buy his CD's, but remember this, on ROCK & ROLL week DAvid ARchuleta CRUSHED the competition and DAvid Cook. Had more votes than David C. Gee, you say the young teens only? WRONG. Young teens vote for David Cook too. But here is the huge difference in the votes, David Archuleta has yes the teen and less than teen votes, the Mom votes, the grandma votes, and single women who love the beautiful ballads clear voice and clean cut votes, the 30's generation that still remembers those wonderful singers that gave us pure musical talent, Not LOUDNESS and Bad Hair dos...geeeeeeee I wonder why David ARchuleta will win??? MORE TALENT, BETTER VOICE, more years in the music business (rockers don't last great vocalists grow very old singing)..And needless to say, we need a new MALE TEEN IDOL as a role model for the younger generation that is adoring him and is opening their musical choices to more than just RAP CRAP with explicit material and LOUD SINGERs with eyeliners and tatoos...more FREAKS we do not need. More talent YES. VOTE FOR DAVID ARCHULETA. More fans more votes. WINNER. The rest of you, don't worry David Cook will provide you with his LOUD CDs and will get some extra sympathy votes for the ones who feel sorry for him (nobody is holding a gun to his head to stay in the competition). This is America we vote for the ones we like. YOu do not like David Archuleta, do not vote for him. And yes my whole family from 15-70 is voting for him numerous times every week. We love his voice, his focus and that incredible smile. :)

[Dee]

David Cook is full of himself. David ARchuleta is the real talent and WOW only 17. Imagine how much better he will be when he reaches David Cook's late 20's age...hmmmmmmmmm go figure. More votes than David Cook on rocker week. Gee. This young man (NOT KID we send 17 year olds to WAR and they are considered young men) is the real talent. Think of this. He has school every day 5 days a week, does commercials, little time to practice David Cook has more time to practice (no school work every day) and has been part of many bands and has a CD and is almost 10 years older than David Archuleta and get this... David ARchuleta consistently gets MORE VOTES every week and showed us consistent talent every week (with the exception of one time when he was sick and forgot the words). HMMMMMMMMM Less time to practice, BETTER VOICE, MORE VOTES = WINNER OF AMERICAN IDOL this year. The rest of you cry out who cares???Nobody is listening to your opinions. You are not producing musical contracts for either one of them. BOOOHOOO. Turn off the TV if you don't like him.

[Adam]

Bo Bice was horrible and LOUD last night. And what is up with the long hair still. Cana't he afford a haircut??? I loved his voice when he was a contestant. All I thought last night was WOW there he goes the LOUD long hair dude (he seemed more talented when he was a contestant) Hey get this, he got beat by Carrie Underwood (a boring vocalist some called her with a beautiful face who was too young from a little town who could not handle fame) and needless to say her first CD included her bestselling song about JESUS? Sounds familiar. The votes are in, the majority in this country, still loves beautiful young faces, that sing beautiful ballads and are not SHOUTING their songs and sold more CDs and is an amazing young singer and winner of so many awards. Bo Bice??? 1 CD failed, gets invited to AI for his scream and shout session with his hair looking a few years longer...Get the picture? David ARchuleta is the clear winner this year. Too bad for the Cookie mucho man lovers. And to compare him to Dughtry really now. Daughtry had great vocals as a rocker. Young new talent is in Rockers are out. BYE BYE David Cook thanks for the memories, in a few years will see you on AI shouting at us with a bad hair do. Don't forget to eyeliner and the new tattoos. Carly will give you discounts now.

[Accidental Tourist]

I discourage the writer of this column to dumb it down for readers like Kiki! I thouroughly enjoy your insightful anaylsis which penetrates ideas existential in nature. God forbid you might make someone actually think!

The last couple of AI episodes have unintentionally caricatured itself, creating a somewhat bizarre and surreal tv wasteland. Non-intellectuals are sadly unaware that topic is irrelevant to insight.

[sam]

I honest don't know what you are trying to say here. I still remember how serious you were when you wrongfully attacked David Archuleta, a very nice 17 year old kid, right after he sang "Imagine". Now, you want to have some fun? You got be kidding... The American Idol and writer like you are pretty much laughable!

[maxell]

David A may win idol but he will not be that successful. Why? He did not go anywhere after star search why would he go far now? I bet after Idol he will join survivor.

[maxell]

David A may win idol but he will not be that successful. Why? He did not go anywhere after star search why would he go far now? I bet after Idol he will join survivor.

[TheRealdeal]

Jason Castro is what this show is supposed to be all about. He has no experience, he's unpolished, and very talented. He sells the songs and does best when he connects with his music. So how do we kill his chances? Bring out Andrew Lloyd Weber, Neil Diamond, and Mariah Carey for him to sing. Of course he's not going to shine as he can't connect to that music and that is Jason's wheelhouse. When he can connect to the songs he's brilliant but if you give him drivel to sing, he's going to look bad as he's not a polished performer...yet. The kid is what it's supposed to be all about. I don't blame him for wanting to go. Who knows, the Idol producers in their infinite wisdom probably had polka week scheduled next...after all, a REAL musician can change it and make it their own. Castro, you have a lot of fans that like the way you connect to your music. I hope we hear more from you.

[Donna]

Kathy - how beautifully you put my feelings about Jason into words! I hope he finds great success - and is able to stay the same fun-loving, humble young man he is now. I never watched Idol before Jason and won't now that he's gone. I simply don't care who wins now. I am, actually, happy that Jason didn't win so that he isn't saddled with Simon but I'm totally disgusted with the way the kind, respectful, joyful Jason was treated by Simon, Paula, and Randy. Pitiful.

[Tanya]

I will miss Jason Castro!! American Idol will never be the same for me again, he's shown me what the show CAN be, and I just don't see it being that way without him. I personally, can't wait to hear his first CD. I have a feeling we will all be following a long and successful career!

[Kim]

I will miss Jason. I think David A. is horrible. He is the one who looks like he doesn't want to be there. Syesha, I think the "card" gets played too often - along with her tears. David Cook is great. He should win but since AI already pre-determined their winner, I don't know how that will happen.

[Lori]

I started out truly enjoying this entire season, with a lot of very good talent, but as the season progressed, this 52 year old grandma, found herself enjoying the performances of Jason Castro more than the others. He just has this nice, laid back, folk rock style, which just makes me feel good.
It has just been a travesty, the personal attacks, and the blatent manipulation from the judges, directed at this kid. Anyone, who was paying attention with an open mind, could see that they were doing everything possible to sway the publics way of thinking, so they could get Jason out of there.
Every year the brain washing, and manipulation of the public, by the judges & producers, has gotten worse & worse, until this season, they only even, half heartedly, tried to cover it up. They think they are too big, and that they are untouchable, and that they can do whatever they want, and will get away with it. After all, who will stand up to American Idol?
This show has either got to make some changes or it is on it's way out. I would love to see a different panel of guest judges each week, that does not receive a paycheck from American Idol, or have an interest in the recording companies, or the show, and who would not be swayed to favoring the producers choice. Better yet, why not do away with the judges completely, and let the voting public decide for themselves who they think is good enough and who is not. Really, the only reason they are there in the first place is to manipulate the viewers into voting for whom they have chosen in the first place. Don't you all feel a little bit insulted that this show thinks we can not decide for ourselves, what we like to hear, without being prompted by the judges? I know I do.

[ellen C]

Ann,
The best and most insightful article I've read about American Idol as it stands today. I'd have gone a little tougher on the judges and producers agenda to drive the most unique talent they've had on the show, but your points are well taken.

After Jason Castro's Memory performance, and the astounding unfair vitriol that followed it, the writing was on the wall for the last best contestant of the season. The following week, Paula's pre-written pan should have exposed to everyone that this show has nothing to do with finding and nurturing young talent, or letting the "Idol" be chosen by the public. It boggles the mind that people can't add two and two here. SHE PREWROTE A CRITIQUE accusing the young man of demonstrating a lack of charm and fight. She liked the first song Jason sang, and she loved the next performance that Cook gave. This is not brain surgery. We now know that however original, or dynamic a performer might be in the performance that is supposed to count, when the Idol bigwigs have decided a contestant's time is up, the contestant has no chance. My 4 year love affair with this talent show is over.

Allowing instruments this season seemed like a promising change. It appeared that perhaps AI discerned that variety amongst contestants' styles would give the show some new life. In the end, they encouraged every instrument bearing contestant to abandon the instruments and to sing the old standard diva songs like the cruise-ship, karaoke, lounge singers they profess to dislike.

Jason Castro's I Shot the Sheriff was prescient and brilliantly chosen. It established him as the independent thinker that music fans have celebrated in rock music in its best days. It was sung well, and performed joyously and purposefully. He was great on Tuesday and transcendant on Wednesday. His triumphant exit from this show, demanding that he be allowed to perform his subversive song, will always be my favorite American Idol moment. It will never be topped because it is also the last American Idol moment that I will see. It's over for me. What a way to go.

[ledishu]

That's great! You made the thinking public something to ponder on.... Great job.

[Majorlift]

Jason Castro and his guitar brought far more musicality, talent, and personality to the AI stage than any other contestant. His ability to connect with the songs and the audience are amazing. While the other contestants delivered performances, Jason consistently delivered artistry with his own genuine interpretations.

[Tina]

Jason's future is limitless. With his unique niche, his understated vocals, his enormous fan base, and his 100% sincere charm, he'll be making hits long after the finale and long after Idol is off the air for good. I can't wait! GO JASON!!!

[April]

Great article. I like the guy a lot, and it's not because he was the best singer. Heck, Jason has said he wasn't. He taught himself to sing a couple years ago! Sorry for those who declare, "this is a singing competition", but you're wrong. If it was, Archuleta and Cook would be replaced with any student at the IU School of Music getting their Master's in Voice. Only Pavarottis and Bocellis would be allowed on the stage because their vocals are perfect. Nope.
It's about connecting with the contestant and getting a sense of their artistry and personality. That's why so many people loved Jason. There was no mystery to him; he put everything out there, even if it made him look ridiculous. Offering jokes at his own expense was what Castro did, because he never got so high and mighty to take himself too seriously. He said a big part of his faith as a Christian is the knowledge that we are all equal. "I'm no better or no worse than anyone else." That's why he knew, even with less vocal talent, that he deserved to be there because America wanted him there. The show will be a LOT more boring now that he's gone, but I am just as relieved as Jason is that he left, because he wasn't able to connect to the songs anymore. Once they moved it up to 2 songs and gave them more non-music stuff to do, his inexperience caught up to him.
Jason was unwilling to compromise, smiled when the judges bashed him week after week, and never disrespected them even though they constantly disrespected him. He could have tried to "redeem" himself by singing Mr. Tambourine Man again to end the results show. (He would've gotten the lyrics right the 2nd time, since he DOES know the words. He had barely sat down on performance night, and was told, "You're on, go!" and it threw him off.) Instead Jason told the band, "Hey, we're doing the Marley one. What's going on?" And stuck it to the judges, as if to say, "You don't like my song? Whatever." I've never seen someone so comfortable with himself. Goooood for him.

[gailer]

Jason was the best darn thing to ever come out of that dreary show of belters and posers!
Go Jason!

[dominique]

I miss Jason, he was my favorite along with Cookie. I love his laid-back energy and non-competitive attitude. And I love the songs he chooses and the different way he sings them. I'll be buying his cds.

There is something missing this year and it's not the contestants. The contestants are great this year, but something is wrong. The judges are so predictable and irrelevant that I mute them now or fast forward through them. I can tell if I like the performances without the judges' input. Ryan looks like an old man with those ill-fitting suits he's wearing. The show itself is getting old and repetitive. Simon has lost his charm for me, though a lot of people still think he's Mr. Music and knows what he's talking about. Personally I think he's a big blowhard. LOL. Paula's sweet but she rambles, and I'm sick of her and Simon acting like children during the performances. Randy tries the hardest to give useful feedback and I appreciate that. The questions from the viewers are lame, they should be screened better. Painfully amateurish at times.

[Rissy]

The voting was fixed. Castro had such a voting powerhouse behind him (i.e. Texas A&M) on top of his huge fan base, that it did not matter how well he sang. 95% of the calls, I made during the first hour (one right after the other), were not counted due to busy signals. The second hour was almost as bad. All one had to do to fix the voting, was make calls and not hang up until AI's system terminated the call.

That being said, I loved the music Jason made. I guarantee that the Jason's iTune sales greatly exceeded the sales of the other contestants with the exception of perhaps David Cook.

David A's music has no character, warmth, or connection for me or anyone else I know. One should also note that Jason is only three years older than David A, and has only been singing for a year.

Finally, maybe it was best that Jason was released from the continued abuse of AI. I won't expend any more time watching AI this season, because of what they did...

[Lelsie]

American Idol just lost a huge fan base themselves. Jason Castro fans were watching in huge numbers because Jason was, well, just Jason! He was a whole entertainment package. Simon said it himself, He has the IT factor, and he does. His charisma is contagious, his music is beautifully delivered in a heartfelt way, and his personna is mesmarizing. He is unique. He is one of a kind. He was the reason so many of us wanted to watch...we knew Jason was coming up. I am a grown adult person, and I just thoroughly enjoyed this guy. There really is no reason for me to watch AI anymore.

[heinzline]

Jason Castro was treated so undeservedly poorly. You couldn't ask for a more genuine person. While I love his voice, he isn't the best singer, so I wasn't surprised or angered that he was eliminated from the competition. What angers me, however, was the treatment that he received following the Paula Fiasco, as if it were his fault that she screwed up. He never talked back to the judges, never gave any indication that he was angry or insulted by their criticisms. Yet, I hear Paula, of all people, call him unprofessional!

I'll be buying his CD as soon as it comes out, and an artist by the name of Jason Castro will join my music library next to favorites like Cat Stevens, Van Morrison, and Sting.

[heinzline]

Jason Castro was treated so undeservedly poorly. You couldn't ask for a more genuine person. While I love his voice, he isn't the best singer, so I wasn't surprised or angered that he was eliminated from the competition. What angers me, however, was the treatment that he received following the Paula Fiasco, as if it were his fault that she screwed up. He never talked back to the judges, never gave any indication that he was angry or insulted by their criticisms. Yet, I hear Paula, of all people, call him unprofessional!

I'll be buying his CD as soon as it comes out, and an artist by the name of Jason Castro will join my music library next to favorites like Cat Stevens, Van Morrison, and Sting.