During the semi-final round of American Idol competition, the remaining three contestants visited their hometowns and preparing three songs for Wednesday’s performance round.
Joshua Ledet and Phillip Phillips were transported via private jet to Westlake, Louisiana and Leesburg, Georgia. Teen finalist Jessica Sanchez boarded a helicopter for the much shorter trek to San Diego.
Last night’s marathon song fest kicked off with each of the trio performing a song picked for them by the judges. That was followed by one of their own choosing. They ended the semi-final round with a song choice from record producer Jimmy Iovine.
The biggest disappointment of the evening was the reluctance on the part of the judges to provide meaningful feedback. Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson could have phoned in their lackluster soundbites that are beginning to sound like a Groundhog Day loop.
Clearly Joshua Ledet, 20, ruled the roost with three solid performances. His strong suit continues to be his ability to connect with each song. His cover of Imagine was stellar.
Jessica Sanchez, 16, was good but not great last night. Her Idol stylist did a great job of dressing the teen in clothing that suited her tiny frame and we were pleased to see the youngest member of the competition displaying more personality. She got a standing O from Tyler for I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing by Aerosmith.
We still don’t fully appreciate the talents of 21-year-old Phillip Phillips but have long since agreed that he has a legion of fans who believe he has what it takes to win this thing. His final performance, a rendition of the Bob Seger tune We’ve Got Tonight, was certainly one of his best efforts.
Tonight one of these three talented singers will be broken-hearted and two will head to the finals next week.
Check out our favorite performances below:
Photo: FOX-Idol