Following the judges’ save of Jessica Sanchez last night, the top 7 finalists on American Idol returned to the stage last night, singing two tracks apiece: a “Now” hit from 2000 and beyond; and a “Then” soul cover.
Which contestant impressed you most with his/her first performance? Watch, listen and vote below…
Hollie Cavanagh took quite a risk to opening the evening, belting out a version of 2011’s biggest hit, Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep.”

Colton Dixon then went all gaga on viewers. Lady Gaga, that is! Check out his version of “Bad Romance” now.

Elise Testone proceeded to give us the first Alicia Keys rendition of the night, taking on the heartfelt ballad “No One.”

Phillips Phillips may not remind many of Usher, but he did that Atlanta native proud with a take on “U Got It Bad,” remaining one of the season 11 favorites.

Jessica Sanchez, taking advantage of her second life on the show, also took on Keys, this time via the hit single “Fallin.”

It was then back to Gaga for Skylar Laine, who made it very clear to the audience: folks, she was “Born This Way.”

Joshua Ledet closed the first half of the evening with “I Believe,” an appropriate choice for someone known as “Mantasia,” wouldn’t you say?

Seven performances down, seven to go. Which of the “Now” selections did you like best?