Update: Ryan Seacrest tweeted a “cryptic” message just minutes ago. Ryan Seacrest: “Prepping for major announcement tmrw. Keep an eye on my twitter after 8am east & watch @JLo on @TodayShow #rhymingisfun”. Now if that doesn’t confirm our suspicions…

Sources close to Ryan Seacrest and the Jennifer Lopez camp are hinting that the “On The Floor” diva will be returning to the American Idol judging panel next season. We recently reported that Randy Jackson and Steven Tyler have both signed on for Idol’s 11th season (already holding auditions in a city near you). Jennifer Lopez might not be far behind. As of a month ago, JLo was unsure of her Idol status, considering she is planning a talent show with hubby Marc Antony.

Judges returning to American Idol

Sources close to both Idol and JLo are hinting at an announcement any day now. If so, here’s to hoping that next year’s panel adds more criticism to their comments, or the Idol franchise is in danger of becoming stale especially with the success behind The Voice and the upcoming X Factor.

JLo Not Returning to Idol?

American Idol crowned its 10th winner, Scotty McCreery, back in May with judges Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler on the panel. Should JLo return, the trio will be back together for a second consecutive season after the shifting of Kara DioGuardi, Paula Abdul and Ellen Degeneres.

It was just a couple of weeks ago that Randy Jackson assured us that all of the judges, himself, Steven Tyler and Jennifer Lopez were to return for next season. Jennifer Lopez, however, is not so sure.

Jennifer Lopez was a big hit with fans this last season on American Idol.  She brought a certain amount of knowledge and stardom that the show had been lacking since Paula Abdul was abruptly asked to not return two seasons ago.  While Randy Jackson stated recently that all three judges would be back, it looks like he might have been lying to America.  Jennifer Lopez may in fact NOT return.

When asked yesterday if she were going to return to the AI panel next season, J-Lo could not confirm. Mind you, she didn’t just flat out say no, but she is apprehensive to say the least.  “I’m very, kind of on the fence about it. I had an amazing time doing it and I loved it, but I have a lot of other things happening and it’s going to come down to making a choice of…what I want to do for the next year,” she said. So Ms. Lopez didn’t completely blow it off, but she wasn’t a 100% yes as Randy had proclaimed.

What do you think? Would you miss her on the judging panel if she were to bow out? Let us know below!

As we reported pre-Idol finale, last season’s champ, Lee DeWyze, was rumored to have not been invited to participate in or attend the American Idol finale at the Nokia Theater Wednesday night. Cameras caught a quick glance at Lee in the audience, but the reigning champ (before Scotty McCreery took the title) was noticeably missing from the stage on the season’s biggest night. Previous Idol champs Carrie Underwood and David Cook each had a role to play on the two night finale festivities, but last season’s winner was simply missing.

Well, things have since developed into a twitter battle between Nigel Lythgoe and Lee DeWyze. Earlier Thursday, Lythgoe tweeted, ““I was so upset Lee DeWyze wouldn’t present the winners trophy to Scotty. Especially as he’s been on the show this season. I guess he was shy,” implying the Season 9 winner was asked to but did not want to partake in the show’s final moments. DeWyze didn’t take long to counter. “Just for the record, I was not asked to be involved in the finale. It wasn’t until about 2 minutes before they announced [the winner] that Nigel had approached me and asked if he could ‘borrow’ me for a second. I didn’t feel a last-second jump on stage was appropriate. It was Scotty’s moment. I appreciate American Idol,” DeWyze continued, “and the opportunity it has given me. And the people who have made that show possible. I am not angry, or bitter etc. It was an amazing finale, and I would have loved to be a part of it. I just wasn’t asked.”

Needless to say, no comment has been made by Nigel Lythgoe in retaliation to Lee’s claim. Nigel has bigger and better things to worry about with So You Think You Can Dance kicking off on air today (and don’t forget to check out our recap here tomorrow morning!). Whose team are you on? Team Nigel or Team DeWyze? What’s your take on the whole situation? Let us know below!

After what constituted a record number of votes (over 122 million to be exact), the 2011 American Idol has been crowned. After a night full of (mostly) entertaining performances and not too many surprises (since we dispelled and confirmed some of the night’s rumors for you in our forum), the crown once worn by Kelly Clarkson, Fantasia, Carrie Underwood, David Cook and most recently Lee DeWyze has been handed down to the next most promising talent Nigel Lythgoe and company had to offer … Scotty McCreery.

Scotty wasn’t afraid to show his real emotion after being named victor over finalist Lauren Alaina, as he went around and hugged his closest family and friends before humbly thanking and congratulating the other finalists and this years judges, barely giving himself the opportunity to give an encore of his latest single to drop tomorrow. Not long after, Scotty found himself on the floor balling tears of joy, I’m sure, and expressing a sense of relief at what he’s been able to accomplish this season. Scotty’s first single, “I Love You This Big,” will be available tomorrow on iTunes and possibly on your radios very soon. After a season of what many (unless your name is Ryan Seacrest) will claim to be one of the most anticlimactic in Idol history, season 10 is now in the books and your next champ is waiting to be found. What’d you think of tonight’s finale? Any performances get you tapping your feet? Are you pleased with the next American Idol?

Your one stop reality shop does not end here with the Idol finale. YakkityYaks will continue to serve as your reality TV home as the summer continues. Don’t miss our commentary, news, updates, and spoilers regarding Big Brother, The Voice, So You Think You Can Dance, America’s Got Talent and more! Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and stick to the Yak and you won’t be disappointed!

Haley Reinhart, one of American Idol’s final 3 contenders for the top spot, took a pretty hard fall during her “contestants choice” performance of  Led Zeppelin‘s “What Is and Should Never Be.”

Walking toward the judges table, she tripped on the stairs, fell to her hands and knees, but got right back up. It didn’t seem to affect her, or her performance in the least. Now that is a professional! Her father, Harry, was playing guitar on the Zeppelin performance. I am surprised we didn’t see him run out to try and catch her!

Once the performance was finished, the judges, of course, had to confront the elephant in the room. Steven Tyler asked “Would you fall for me?” but then continued to praise her for the performance. Jennifer Lopez also praised her, and added that this past weekend even she fell: “I’ve fallen, Beyonce’s fallen … You keep going. It’s a sign of a professional who knows what they’re doing.” Randy Jackson thought it was a planned fall.

A planned fall? Yeah, that one confused me too.

Anyway, Reinhart was a-ok, and in fact was awarded the first round victory in tonight’s 3 person stand off.

What do you think? Helped, hurt, or neither? Let us know below!

Well, American Idol has whittled it’s way down to the top three: Lauren Alaina, Haley Reinhart and Scotty McCreery. James Durbin was sent packing last night, which in my opinion, was pretty surprising. In fact, just based on the poll here, it seems it surprised many. This season has actually surprised many with their eliminations. Pia was a surprise elimination that seemed to irritate many of the Idol watchers. In fact, many stopped watching from that point forward. Between the judges not being critical of anyone, the push of certain performers, etc. this season has kinda been a drag to many. In fact, the first time I have heard the judges actually be critical was this week’s performance night, to Haley.

So, why was James eliminated? What made someone who has never found himself in the bottom three suddenly eliminated, and another Idol who has been in the bottom three repeatedly, not only safe from elimination, but not even in the bottom two?

My theory? It comes down to two words: Adam Lambert.

Yes, our old Idol friend Adam Lambert last week endorsed Haley. This came as a surprise to many, since many have been comparing Durbin to Lambert, including James who tried to model himself a bit after him, so we thought Lambert would return the favor and either endorse James, or endorse no one. Well, he endorsed Haley. Many of us have wondered why? That is not to say Haley is not a great singer by any means, but when you ask around, there are many that think Adam may have shown his preference for her because of the competition James may bring him, or that he was tired (or jealous) of hearing people compare James to him. Some of James’ fans have even gone so far as to say he is better than Lambert. So, taking all the chatter around the net about James, it seems Adam made the choice to try and distance himself from The Durbin.

Lambert endorsed Haley all over Twitter. Lambert has over a million followers. So, coincidence? I think not. Did loyal Lambert fans send the rocker packing?

Quite frankly, I don’t think that former Idols should endorse the current contestants, as it gives an unfair advantage, but, that’s just me.

What do you think? Let us know below, then come on in the the FORUM where we are discussing James’ Elimination and have a poll HERE to see if you think Lambert had anything to do with it!

So who wants an alleged haunted house that the Idol 10 group lived in? Well, for those of you with a large sum of cash on hand (and we all know we just are bursting at the seems with extra change from our last grocery trip) it’s available for a mere $12 Million! Like I said, just forego your Costco or Target trip and you too can have a chance at this once in a lifetime deal!

Built in 2008, the house features 9 Bedrooms, 9 Bathrooms, and is approximately 15000 Sq. ft. on 2.14 acres of land. The home boasts a swimming pool and spa, butler/maid prep Kitchen, Lavish Landscaping, Parking for over 100 cars, dual winding staircases, and of course, ghosts, so say the American Idol troop.

Yeah that’s right, not only do you get this wonderful piece of property where you can throw huge elaborate parties with that extra money you saved offering 11,995,000, but you will also have the opportunity to live with extra special guests that just won’t move on. Oh, and spiders.

As you may recall, the group of this years Idols have reported that the house began being infested with spiders, then lights began to flicker, sheets floated down the hallways on their own, and a hand floated down from the ceiling. This is when they decided to move out, and now, lucky you, you can own it! I mean come on, if you put only 20% down, it would only cost you $48,362 a month! Now that’s affordable!

Let us know below how much you are going to offer! It’s only fair, so others have a shot too.

It was bound to happen, and we all got to see a little piece of it Tuesday night. (That is, if you watched The Voice this week. If you haven’t seen this show, this writer thinks you should go check it out!)

The Voice coach, Adam Levine from Maroon 5, made a comment on Tuesday’s show, speaking to a contestant that did not get a coach to turn around during their “blind audition”. He said, “The people that we’re not turning our chairs around for could win American Idol,” after he and fellow celebrities Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green and Blake Shelton decided not turn their chairs either. We all heard it, and many of us in the forum, and around Twitter, commented on it.

So far, we had heard nothing from the ‘Idol-sphere’ really about The Voice, and how they really feel about the competition, until today.

Randy Jackson told the Hollywood Reporter today that “It’s a great thing when talent can be simple, honest and revered as opposed to spinning around with gimmicky chairs. Maybe Simon Cowell should have people opening doors. Like, ‘Knock, knock. Who’s singing? I can’t see you!“

He continued, “Look, none of these other shows could exist without somebody forging the path before them. I’m happy to say that Idol did that and paved the way.”

The Voice itself has premiered with some very impressive ratings, and has certainly impressed me. So much so, that I have stopped watching Idol. To me, Idol has lost it’s special something, and I think it was the right timing for Simon to leave. The judges are no longer judging the contestants, but are more a cheerleading section, and I find myself really disliking Jimmy Iovine. I would much rather see the contestants do what they want to do on their own. Let them be individuals, and find within themselves the artist they wish to be, rather than be coached by this guy. A little less arrogance, and some more humble pie would be nice Mr. Iovine.

Jackson states his only fear is that “with all these shows coming is that people don’t tire of the format,” he adds. “I don’t know how much singing at you the public can take” referring to The Voice, America’s Got Talent and Cowell’s X Factor premiering in the Fall.

Personally, I can take a lot, if it’s good. I don’t find The Voice gimmicky. In fact, it seems to me they came up with a format that could work for seasons to come… New judges can be brought in every season, allowing for a fresh take every time.

What do you think? Agree with Randy, or do you think Idol may have met it’s match?

This week on Idol: The Top 5 finalists, Lauren Alaina, James Durbin, Jacob Lusk, Scotty McCreery and Haley Reinhart will perform songs from “Now and Then” – One current song of their choice, and one from the 1960′s.

Thursday, the live result show will feature a performance by Idol Judge Jennifer Lopez with Rapper PitBull and a performance by Lady Antebellum. In addition, sometime this week, we should be seeing the premier of the video of “Judas” by Lady Gaga. We are unsure whether this will be on the performance show or the elimination. We here at the Yak are guessing it will be on elimination night however, seeing that they wouldn’t want to steal the spotlight from the Idols, and that they usually jam pack a lot of stuff on elimination night.

So, what do you think? Do you like the idol theme for this week? Looking forward to the performances on elim night? Leave us a comment below, and be sure to join us in the forum to talk about all things Idol!

The Idol powers that be must have known it was impossible to compete with Royal Wedding hoopla reaching its frenzied crescendo.  What else could explain the scheduling of Crystal Bowersox and her tired song about singing a song when you want to sing it, along with Bruno Mars and his just plain stupid song about feeling lazy?  Your regular correspondent must have predicted this lack of enthusiasm himself, with the result that he’s once again abandoned his post.  Alas, we’ll soldier on like the good knights of future King William and Queen Catherine’s round table.

Not that no effort was made.  Indeed, the show did try tapping into monarchical fever by sending the potential heirs to Lee DeWyze’s throne to the British Consulate, where the terrible, fake British accents flowed as freely as the warm beer.  Were Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow brought in as party mentors?  Back on American soil, we received a quick, surprising result, with Haley – dressed rather like a gypsy accountant – was called up and sent to safety.  She even sassed Jimmy Iovine – albeit, a videotaped Jimmy Iovine – when he suggested she didn’t know who she was yet.

Given her lackluster elaboration, though – if you have to ask the audience if you have soul, Haley, you probably don’t – we could have used some additional sass from Jacob.  He had reason, with Jimmy asking if he got lost on the “Dancing With the Stars” set before suggesting his resulting outfit was reason to be sent home.  Especially since the frequently fashion-challenged Lauren – on the back of a definite off-night – was criticized only for not believing how good she actually is.  Maybe she – unlike the mentors or judges – actually heard herself on Tuesday and didn’t buy the idea that endearing imperfection and just plain not hitting any of the right notes are different phenomena.

If Jimmy was wrong about Lauren – and wrong/moderately homophobic about Jacob – he was spot-on in his critique of Casey.  The “growling” – or, more accurately, the unhinged grunting of an obscene prank caller – went to a whole new level of obnoxious on Tuesday.  “The family dog doesn’t vote” was one of the best criticisms delivered by any Power That Be this season.  The continuing praise/voting for Casey post-“Smells Like Team Spirit” was loopier than Paula Abdul after rifling through Courtney Love’s medicine cabinet.  Thankfully, the American people finally made like Henry VIII and sent Casey to the Tower, where he’ll be safely locked away until it’s time to bring his special brand of creepy to a town near you this summer.

And with that, we wrap up this wrap-up so we can get to bed in time to rise for the wedding of the century.  Until Brad and Angelina take the plunge, anyway.  Before hitting the hay, share your thoughts on tonight’s show.  Were you more surprised that Haley was safe or that Scotty wasn’t?  Will you really miss Casey?  Will Kate Middleton wear Alexander McQueen?  Are honey badgers just kind of mean and stupid?

Hello Idolites! First of all, I’m sorry to have been MIA last Thursday when Katy Perry hit the stage, performed some of her alien sex, and we said goodbye to our “Little Wildcard That Could” aka Stefano Langone. I know that you all were devastated by my absence and I hope you have all had time to properly recover and prepare yourselves for our little get together today. Raise your hand if you missed me? Ok, Ok … not all at once! Tonight we’re gonna tackle Carole King night, which could be a royal treat or a royal flub depending on your outlook on life. But first, how much filler can one show have … 90 minutes for 6 contestants? Really? That’s OK! We’ll throw in a few duets in there, America will be happy.

Before we get on to the actual show, let’s just touch on the obviously elephant in the room. How many of you, like myself, are already making stark comparisons between this ratings behemoth and NBC’s The Voice? Don’t be shy, everybody’s doing it! And because everyone’s doing it, I won’t touch on it much here … but what I will say is this. At a time when many (not all) are starting to feel a little let-down/bored with our favorite (?) singing competition, The Voice couldn’t have come at a better time.

The Voice Premiere: Did you Love It?

Now, we’ll just move on to tonight. I promise I’ll try to stay as positive and less cynical than before. Keyword: TRY. First of all, did someone tell Jacob Lusk that tonight was Halloween? If so, Steven Urkel was the costume (or so a member decided in our forums). Kinda easy to guess, Lusk. Now, I don’t think Jacob has what it takes to win this competition, but I do kinda feel for him and I’ll tell you why. Based on tonight’s production, it’s pretty obvious that tonight’s show was set up as a farewell to Jacob and there are a number of reasons why. Follow along and you’ll find my hidden gems pointing out why tomorrow night might be Jacob’s last on the Idol stage before he’s invited back finale night to help fill 2 hours of programming.

Jacob Lusk, “Oh No, Not My Baby” | Reason #1 why Jacob will leave tomorrow: He was blessed (or cursed, really) with the honor of kicking off the show. It’s pretty much standard Idol protocol to stack the deck, if you will. Rule No. 327.5, Article VI states that “he who starts off the show has a greater chance at being eliminated the following night.” Jacob does have something about his performance going for him. Unfortunately, it’s not the singing, but rather his costume. I mean who can forget the blue vest with the yellow shirt and the purple bowtie, complementing the plaid coat and the Caterpillar shoes? On the down side, his last note was sour and didn’t really stand out from the rest of the piece. Also, I’m pretty sure giving a little roar in your backstage interview post-performance isn’t a surefire way to pick up some votes. Randy cryptically throws in a “Hope America votes” which usually means “You pretty much have no chance. Nice knowin’ ya.” Speaking of Randy, why was he dressed like Harry Potter?

Lauren Alaina, “Where You Lead” | Reason #2: Lauren Alaina, Season 10′s Poster Child, gets a surprise visit from a big “superstar.” If you consider teenage daughter gone wrong a superstar, then yes, I meant Miley Cyrus. Why would Miley’s appearance be a bad thing for Mr. Lusk? Simple math my friends, Miley will help Lauren pick up more votes, hence, fewer for Jacob. Miley also reminded me why I like The Voice better. They can sing. Oops, I said I wouldn’t mention that show! Reason #3: Continue Idol gimmicks Papa Nigel by planting a member of the studio audience for Lauren to casually pick and bring up on stage. Also make sure said member is young, charismatic and daringly handsome. Why? Encourage younger female voters to swing yet more votes Ms. Alaina’s way. Got it? Ok, good.

Casey Abrams and Haley Reinhart: “I Feel the Earth Move” | Well, the earth did move, but I’m pretty sure it was trying to get out of Casey’s way. Whatever he was eyeing and growling at … the earth did not want to interfere. The man was on a mission. Steven Tyler called them out on their little rumored backstage love affair to which we received no response. Come on, Idol. We’re looking for drama! Considering as I’m no fan of these contestants separately, I’m not going to be together, but this wasn’t the most horrid I’ve heard these two growl sing. So, kudos.

Scotty McCreery, “You’ve Got a Friend” | Reason #4: Scotty made love with the camera with his eyes. Jacob, on the other hand, gave America yet another opportunity to check out his molars. Making love usually wins. It is, however, about time that Scotty took the initiative to work something new with his performances. Stripping the song a bit and taking a song that hasn’t been contrified is definitely a step in the right direction. Keeping Randy on the show as a “judge,” on the other hand, isn’t. He’s “in it to win it?” Really, Randy? You’ve run out of vocabulary storage that you’re already reusing words that you reuse regularly? Speaking of our judges, why is it that I find them fighting so hard to pretend they’re interested and excited about what’s on stage? I think that’s why we’re getting repeated phrases from Randy, jumbled who knows what from Tyler and inconsistent and sometimes sporadic “critiques” from Lopez. They need to phone a friend, namely Adam Levine or Cee Lo Green or Blake Shelton or even Ms. Aguilera. Randy’s bound to have their numbers. He has everyone on speed dial, no?

James Durbin, “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” | Reason # Whatever We’re On Now: We have a winner predicted! Randy, likely thanks to his super “R” vest and in all his knowledge, has predicted our Season 10 champ and it’s this guy right here! Coming out on stage a capella, looking for that “moment” to capture America, James took on this King tune flawlessly. Randy went so far as to call it the “Performance of the Last Few Months.” Newsflash Randy: If you really have been watching the same show we have, there aren’t really many to throw him up against. James’ vocal was not flawless the rest of the performance, but he was able to bring the lights down and give us a more subdued performance. Dude can blow without marching band drummers behind him.

Lauren Alaina and Scoty McCreery: “Up on the Roof” | Rule No. 372.1 Article XX states: “In order to brainwash America into choosing the ‘Chosen Final 2′ from the production standpoint, be sure and include a number of duets interspersed throughout the season.” ‘Nuff said.

Casey Abrams, “Hi-De-Ho” | Oy vey. Where do I start with this one, here? Casey could be the only reason Jacob defies Idol’s will and actually stays this week. From the moment Casey stepped into his little musical wonderland and started waltzing down around the yellow brick road, I grew concerned. Then he decided to throw his hat. Then he started grunting. Heavily. Then he maintained dangerous eye contact with the camera and members of the studio audience. Casey, Casey, Casey, so much promise from your initial audition. What has time done to you? What more, the judges were able to provide us with some groundbreaking critiques. “Less Growl, Casey.” No $#*! judges!! Ya think?

Haley Reinhart, “Beautiful” | Before I continue with this recap, please note the following does not mean I have jumped onto the Haley train. Aside from the random technical difficult before her performance, Haley actually took the stage in stride and showed GREAT restraint tonight with her vocals. Correct me if I’m wrong (and I did double check myself) but I could count ONE (Uno, Eins, 1, a single) growl tonight. Granted she probably ran out on the earlier duet with Casey, but Haley took this song with confidence and worked to showcase her vocals more than her grunting tonight. While I am not one to claim her as a top finalist or a seasoned vocalist, she doesn’t get an ounce of criticism from me tonight. However, look for her to end up in the Bottom 3 anyways only because I don’t see James, Lauren, or McCreery getting a spot on the silver stools of doom this week. Rest assured, I’m pretty sure we’re losing another XY contestant tonight because Haley, based on this week alone, earned a spot to move on next week. See? I can be fair sometimes. And you doubted me!

Jacob Lusk and James Durbin: “I’m Into Something Good” | Can I make a confession? I switched over to The Voice and missed this performance. Was it enough to add Reason #6 as to why Jacob might be out the door tonight?

So gang, what did you think about last night’s performance? How did they fare with the Carole King songbook? Who was your favorite? Who are you ready to see walk off that stage? Looking forward to Bruno Mars and Crystal Bowersox tomorrow night? What’s your Bottom 3 prediction? While we’re at it … thoughts on the Idol vs. Voice comparisons? Let us know all that and more below and in our FORUMS!

Next week’s elimination show should be a good one, as long as your favorite isn’t eliminated anyway. The performance show I will admit, I am a little skeptical about.

For the performances, the Idol troup will have their choice of music from the Carole King song-book. Do you think we will get a growling version of Natural Woman from Haley? Or maybe Casey will take on that one? I guess we will all need to stay tuned to find out.

As for the elimination show, Crystal Bowersox makes her return to the Idol Stage singing, probably, something off her post Idol debut album Farmer’s Daughter that was released last December. Bruno Mars is also set to perform that night and just a wild guess will choose The Lazy Song since that is his latest release off of his album Doo – Wops & Hooligans. Will he bring the monkeys? I am actually really pleased with the line-up and may just watch the whole show without forwarding this time! How about you? Leave us a comment below and let us know!

As we reported before, the Pia elimination sent the judges, the fans and the Producers apparently up in arms. Randy even mentioned in an interview last week that he wished he had another save, that there should be one for the top 12 (or 13) and another one that can be used between the top 10-5. I myself think that is way too many saves, and even mentioned that maybe they should just go the So You Think You Can Dance way of eliminations, and let the audience vote the bottom, the judges pick who leaves. Well, it looks like this may be considered for next season.

American Idol’s executive producers, specifically Nigel Lythgoe, are now saying that they may consider the change to the SYTYCD format next year. Fellow executive producer, Ken Warwick, may now be on board with this as well, saying “Maybe we’ll change the voting system slightly next year. Maybe we’ll limit the number of SMS votes or online votes, but it will remain the same this year.”

He went on to say that they will definitely hold discussions about the voting system, reiterating that no changes will take place this year, mid season. Responding to Lythgoe’s suggestion of a SYTYCD format, he said “I wouldn’t put too much faith in anything. That’s just one of the solutions or ideas on the table. There are a number. We won’t be putting anything into practice…well, I’m pretty sure we won’t – until next year.” He was also sure to note that the voting in general tends to lean more towards the men in the competition, since “predominantly young girls and moms are the driving force behind these kinds of shows, probably more prominently now – the vote is going to be slewed toward boys”.

Will a new voting system help all around? What do you think? Should there be more saves, or should we go to a SYTYCD format? Leave us a comment below and let us know!

Is it bad that the songs I currently have stuck in my head, as I write this post-Idol, are songs that were not featured on tonight’s American Idol telecast? Sit and ponder that one for a second, will you? Ok, times up. What’d you come up with? Tonight’s theme was “Songs from the 21st Century” aka “Karaoke Night” aka “Songs This Group Has Actually Heard Of” aka … well, you get the picture. I’m starting to think I’m one of the few left in this country who isn’t jumping head over heels every time someone performs on that stage. I’m not hating, well I’m trying not to, but I’m really sick and tired of the judges and production touting that this season holds some of the best talent this show has ever seen. Really? How quickly we forget Kelly Clarkson, Tamyra Gray, Chris Daughtry, Melinda Doolittle, Carrie Underwood, David Cook, Jennifer Hudson … and that just scrapes the bottom of the barrel. Can I go on a limb to say that names like Stefano Langone, Jacob Lusk, Casey Abrams and yes folks even Haley Reinhart won’t hold a candle to some of the names on that list? Maybe I just need to clean my ears better next time I’m watching the show. Maybe then I’ll hear it.

Also, “special cast-off reunion” what? That was a special reunion? Don’t get me wrong. Bringing Ashthon Jones, Karen Rodriguez, Thia Megia, Pia Toscano, Naima Adedapo and Paul McDonald is not a fully miscalculated move; but bringing them back together might not have been the most genius idea Papa Nigel and Mama Cecile have come up with recently. The performance was by far one of the most fun performances of the night, maybe because they knew it wasn’t going to be judged … but a good number of that bunch reminded America why they’re not getting a toll free number tonight. Sorry, Steven Tyler, it wasn’t as vocally sound as you thought it (like every other performance this season) was. But, any way for Idol to bring in P!nk is fine with me. Good song choice for the cast-offs, I’ll give them that too. Tonight we’ll be doing something a little different with our performances … I’ll also be giving them letter grades. This one gets, B-.

Without further adieu and before anyone chimes in and starts talking about my quirks, let’s get to tonight’s performances from our Top 7.

Scotty McCreery, “Swingin’” by Leann Rimes | Well, Scotty opened the show like we expected him too. Flute in hand, country twang warmed up, and his smile that’s sure to win over a couple more votes into his corner tonight. Problem is, that’s all this performance really had going for it. The vocals were spot on, as usual, but there was really not much else brought center stage. Sadly, I actually agree with the judges here. It wasn’t risky, it was too comfortable. Sadly, this is not as out of the box as Scotty might want us to think. The song is originally from John Anderson in 1983, not Leann. NOW, my judges, why in the heck does Scotty get a critique about comfort zone when that’s exactly what you’ve praised about contestants in the past? How about we shoot for a little consistency here in our little Idol-verse, ok? If you’re gonna critique, pick the right things to critique him on – like how he could have taken a popular song from the decade and added a country twist a la Kris Allen & “Heartless” way back when. Tonight’s Grade: B

James Durbin, “Uprising” by Muse | Without a doubt, best of the night. James not only picked the perfect song choice, but he went ahead and took a REAL relevant song (that’s the idea behind the theme) and made a performance that only James would make. That was the point of tonight. He didn’t just hop on stage with a guitar and stare creepy nothings into the camera, he added a little flare. As we look into Randy’s latest name drop, I’m actually appreciative to have been told that Matthew Bellamy challenged Durbin to take that chorus up an octave. Thank you, Mr. Bellamy. Thank you. Also, can we please thank James for bringing a new song to Idol, rather than the usual overdone, oversung “hits” these people tend to choose? Tonight’s Grade: A

Haley Reinhart, “Rolling In The Deep” by Adele | I’m gonna be the lone ranger here, I just know it. The internet world will be a-buzzin’ with Lady Reinhart’s performance, but not YakkityYaks (well maybe our forums , check them out!). She still sounded like she was too busy gargling phlegm while attempting to cover one of the most under-appreciated (until recently) and genius recording artists out there. When Haley actually needed to infuse some attitude into her performance (just listen to the lyrics), she didn’t! I will stand by this till kingdom come. I thought it last night when Paltrow tackled “Turning Tables” on Glee and it was only reinforced last night with “Rolling In The Deep,” Adele cannot be covered. Plain and simple. Do you agree with me internet world or do I need to cut Miss Haley some slack? For those of you who need a reward for sitting through this performance, click here. You won’t regret it. Tonight’s Grade: B-

Jacob Lusk, “Dance With My Father” by Luther Vandross | This performance definitely was full of emotion. In fact, I’ll say it was the most emotional performance of the night. BUT … yea, you knew there would be one … this was much too safe. Jacob, don’t listen to Randy. He’s confusing you just as much as he’s confusing all of America. One minute he wants you to tone down your over-the-top gospelness, the next minute he’s asking you where you’re hiding it. Just don’t listen. Randy is much too confused because he thinks critiques help everyone, however, he has YET to give a logical one all season. That said, Jacob, I think we’re finding out you’re a one-trick pony. I’ve tried, week after week, to stand behind and support you because you’ve got chops, but I seem to get the same each week. And that’s dramatization > singability. Tonight’s Grade: C+/B-

Casey Abrams, “Harder to Breathe” by Maroon 5 | Wow, if you were to read just this and the last two performance recaps, you’d think I’m the world’s grumpiest man. I promise, I’m not. Casey came back a little bit for me tonight. Well, at least what I was able to pay attention to. I was still running around the house making sure my windows and doors were locked because it looked like America’s favorite growly grizzly bear was eyeing his next target. Tell me I wasn’t the only one who felt this way? Vocals were still growly, a little less, but growly nonetheless. This performance seemed to be more focused on eyebrow raises and clenched teeth. Building up the performance the way he did was clever. Working the start without the guitaring and building through the rocking track worked in his favor, keeping him from being compared directly to The Voice mentor, Adam Levine. Tonight’s Grade: B-/B

Stefano Langone, “Closer” by NeYo | While Bruno Mars would have been a better song choice for our little “Wildcard-Contestant-That-Could,” I’m none too surprised to see that NeYo was actually Stefano’s choice at showing us what a record of his might look like should he receive a deal of some sort from some top dawg out there. The problem? I actually had to rewatch this performance to form an opinion to recap. That’s never a good sign. Although, should Stefano stick around another week, he does have that shirt to thank, me thinks. I’m glad he strayed away from the usual ballad, however, and worked his way around that stage. I’m not so glad he decided to preview his latest workout/jazzercise video for the viewing audience pleasure. Tonight’s Grade: B-

Lauren Alaina, “Born to Fly” by Sara Evans | Just when I was trying to find some excitement in an XX competitor on the show, Idol goes to remind me why I didn’t support Lauren in the first place. She was pimped out again for America tonight. More than once, really. She not only snagged the final act of the night, but Jimmy Iovine brought in one of his “famous” friends to motivate her (he didn’t do that for anyone else). Then we were reminded that she could win this whole thing, as if we weren’t reminded that multiple times before. So ya, just when I was ready to jump on the Lauren bandwagon, I made the decision to jump back off onto the train tracks. Speaking of trains, I’m ready for the Hot Tamale train to toot on by. Now for her performance, it was simply a Lauren performance. Nothing to wow me, nothing to make me jump off the couch, but a solid performance nonetheless. One to keep her around for another week, which of course is Papa Nigel’s goal after all. She did lookt a little more comfortable on that stage today compared to her recent performances. That’s a start. Tonight’s Grade: B+

And with that, we come to my bottom 3 predictions for the night. Based on my letter grades, look to see Haley, Jacob, and Stefano in the B3. Simply because a cat can only have so many lives, Stefano might be the one walking off stage tomorrow to David Cook’s send-off tune.

What’d you think about tonight’s 21st Century tribute? Have a favorite? Agree with my recap? Did you also wonder what Steven Tyler said for the extra long bleep? Also, why did he stick his tongue through a magazine cover? So many questions. Let us know what you think!

American Idol’s Randy Jackson recently held an interview with some guy named Ryan Seacrest over yonder at E!News, and told Ryan that because of the controversial elimination of Pia Toscano a couple weeks ago, that the show could use more ‘saves’ for the judges to use. Randy said “We might need to have, in the top 13, one save, and then in the top 10—up to the top five, another save, because I felt that Pia was starting to hit her stride…I think we have to come up with some sort of system – because what we want, ultimately, Ryan, is a duel to the finish. The two best ones to be there at the end, duke-ing it out. We had that at the end with Clay and Ruben, we’ve had that a couple of times, but we haven’t had that every time, you know? If it comes down to the two guys I think it’ll come down to, it’ll be a fight to the finish, and a great fight of the finish. We need that kind of end, you know what I mean? Oh my god.”

More saves? I personally feel that there are too many already. If America doesn’t pick up the phone for someone, well, then their journey should be over. I wasn’t completely happy with the ‘saves’ or choices I guess they are called, of the last 3 contestants to enter the top 13. I mean, I agreed on a couple of them, one most defintely not. To me, if they want to add yet another save, then take away their picks for the top 12, and use that for a later save.

Many also have expressed anger over them using it on Casey, when they could have saved it for Pia. Well, I was actually happy they used it on him. It all comes down to taste I guess.

What do you think? Should the judges have more saves or do you think they have one too many already? Will they petition for even more saves the year after that? Wouldn’t that make the show go on forever? Also, he mentions he thinks it will come down to two boys. Which two do you think he is referring to, and do you agree that is who it should come down to? Leave us a comment below and let us know!

Also, don’t forget to check out the Yak Forum! We are ALWAYS in there talking about all your faves for reality. Plus, if you are a Big Brother watcher, it is DEFINITELY the place to be! Make your way over there today and join us!