America's Got Talent (2008) [Archive]

AlanDale

July 9th, 2008, 03:20 PM

America’s Got Talent - Ep 4
Published July 8th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/contortion.jpg
.........Victoria Jacobi

The auditions are in Atlanta, GA and New York City. Holy crap, these auditions are endless… But tonight’s show, only an hour! YAY!

Billy Dodson - Billy looks like a bodyguard, but he sing opera in a REALLY HIGH VOICE! Ha ha ha.. *cough*. Sharon tells him to sing like a man. It’s a NO! - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=a5938cb5-abcf-46df-8b54-5883883c54e4)

Alex Pyles - Ok, I’m guessing she’s a weight lifter… Nope it’s some kind of martial arts deal that involves Dad throwing his 10 year old daughter around. It’s pretty stupid. Sharon said she needs to be in a martial arts movie. OMG, the judges are sending this shiz to Vegas. At least Piers had the sense to say no. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=282ba33f-6767-49bd-a468-a083c05f7853)

Sarah Lenore - She’s a 19 year old waitress who just moved to Nashville to try and make it as a singer. She performs “Before He Cheats”. She’s a good singer, but really she’s just another blond countryish singer. She does hit a pretty decent glory note there at the end. Piers says she got a good voice. Sharon says she’s got to work on her individuality. DING! But she’s got a really good voice. Hoff says, “Girl, you got it, you have an amazing voice.” She’s on her way to Las Vegas. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=80a83262-6b0e-4e95-b95e-38fa07c41523)

SQ Entertainment - Dancing Cousins! A hip-hop/tumbling act. The judges likey. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=6b453444-611b-432f-8dd1-51ea371d8b41)

The James Gang - These guys are from Harlem, and they’ve hint at having hard-luck backstories, but we’re flying through the auditions tonight, so no time for that! They’re dressed up in some sort of ragtime deal, and I’m expecting something lame. Except, no, this is pretty interesting. It’s old-time jazz with a hip-hop twist. Very interesting. The Hoff says, “Very cool”. The judges all say YES. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=83f2d58a-b3ea-424d-9794-5fbb80f0c762)

Victoria Jacobi - Eleven year old who was adopted from China by her parents. And now she’s performing for her supper! Her talent is that she’s able to twist her body around in a bunch of weird and creepy ways. In the old days, they’d call her a contortionist. It just looks totally gross to me. Hoff thinks she’s awesome. Sharon says she deserves to be hear, after giving a speech about “knowing your craft”. The judges all say YES. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=c0f3e2d3-2e5b-4596-ac4b-f2ffea10bf41)

Polka Today - Gee, they are the #1 Polka dancers in America. How exciting! They describe themselves of a blend of High energy country dancing and Ballroom. It’s called, Polka Today! The crowd boos them, and the judges all say no. Sharon calls it “Silly dancing.” Woah, Polka Today! are bummed out. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=71aafa6c-5873-4864-9cee-90e96a397d99)

Kyle Rifkin - This show really is kind of shameless, which is why it sorta bugs me. Kyle is 36, and this surely is his last chance to make his poor mama proud. He grew up in Harlem, with an alcoholic father, yada yada. He cries a lot. His momma cries a lot. Kyle sings “Ain’t Too Proud To Beg” and he’s pretty decent, but the backstory just elevates him into the stratosphere as far as the judges are concerned. Hoff says, “This is what this show is about!” Piers says, “I feel like I’m watching the heart of America performing.” Sharon says, “I love you!” Jerry Springer is crying. Eh. I guess I’m just cynical. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=cd5c3761-62c6-475b-8bea-b5f92dc73020)

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-4.htm#more-5150)

AlanDale

July 16th, 2008, 07:19 AM

America’s Got Talent - Ep 5
Published July 15th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/hoff_nails1.jpg
...........Bruce Block

We’re back in Atlanta tonight.

Michelle Wallace - Says she’s a singer, but she can barely talk. And, she’s sporting some pretty heinous eye shadow. She orders everyone to stand up. The audience stays glued to their seats. She manages to warble, horribly, only 3 words of the tune “All By Myself” before the buzzer goes off. I wonder how much Eric Carmen is getting paid for this? He better be getting battle pay. It’s naturally, a no. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=6c6e44cb-1291-4a39-8e4e-c6336a3888ad)

Bruce Block - His assistant quit right before he auditioned last year. He’s back and better prepared. For what, it’s hard to tell. Oh, he lays on a bed of nails. Now, that’s talent. His assistant sings, tap dances, and twirls batons–badly–then stands on him as he’s splayed out on a giant bed of nails. What a stupid act. Hoff doesn’t believe the nails are sharp and offers to stand on Bruce himself. After Hoff tests him, he’s convinced the act is real. Hoff thinks it’s fantastic! Piers thinks it sucks. Sharon must feel pity, she sides with Hoff, and Bruce is on his way to Las Vegas. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=bccf2b2b-c87e-4942-a495-afe4806f867b)

Oh, I smell a crossdresser coming!

Dorae Saunders - And I’m correct! I might be mistaken, but I think Dorae has a dead animal on her head. Somebody should tell her! She lip syncs spastically to “Proud Mary”. My cousin used to do an act in the gay bars back in my hometown that was tons better than this. Hoff says it’s entertaining. Jeebus, I hate to say it, but Hoff must be drunk tonight, and Sharon has joined him at the bar. Piers says no. Sharon says yes. Dorea looks suggestively at Hoff. I think he may be turned on! As well as drunk. He says yes. Keep him away from the hamburgers. Dorea, the second rate impersonator, is on to Las Vegas. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=79dc3340-b6ab-40f3-8ba2-55ef4d10ead5)

Ok, now I’m looking at a bunch of dancing cartoon characters, and I’m really confused. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=0d53c763-7457-40b7-98b8-b2f979d6a189)

Dallas Desperados - 18-26 - They dance. With pom poms. It’s like the High School dance team, except not. Hoff and Piers will say yes without hesitation, I’m sure. Oh, nice close up of that dancers ass! Way to go. Hoff says he’s moving to Dallas. Piers loves it. Sharon says they look amazing and have great energy. Everyone says yes. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=30b9531d-e1f1-4bb3-aa2c-866c237de617)

Xclusive - 18 - Robot Hip Hop. Ya’all. It’s weird, but kinda clever. The judges agree, and he’s on to Vegas. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=fd6e0574-216b-40f5-8f70-1ced8685b3d0)

Barry Collier - Barnyard animal noises are his specialty. The crowd goes WILD at this announcement! But then turn on him quickly when they realize his animal noises are pretty lame. It’s a no, for Barry. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=2acb857a-2d42-461c-96a1-f705f2d98964)

This week’s shamelessly sentimental sob story…coming after the break! I can hardly wait.

Donald Graswell - Donald’s singing career was tragically cut short in a “freak” car accident 11 years ago. After years of therapy, Donald has his speaking voice back, but will he ever sing again? OMG! Jerry Springer explains that the studio audience has been ornery all day. How will they react to Donald? He begins to sing “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban. Hey, not bad for a guy with severed vocal chords! He’s got a very pleasant Irish tenor. But the crowd is having none of it! The song gains momentum, and Donald goes for the Big! Key! Change! He hits the note, and the crowd turns around! They are on his side! Donald tears up! The crowd is cheering! The judges fall all over themselves praising Donald’s average vocals. Jerry gives him a big hug, and the last shot is of Donald telling his kids he’s made it to Vegas. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=bbfff4a0-4604-4f27-a481-96f3d919d0b6)

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-5.htm#more-5208)

AlanDale

July 22nd, 2008, 10:47 PM

America’s Got Talent - Ep 6
Published July 22nd, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/snake.jpg
...Daryl - "Kiss of Death"

More auditions. Sigh. Tonight–back in New York and LA, for like 8,345th time.

Here are a few of the noteworthy acts:

* Fun With Hand Shadows - The guy makes shadow puppets of famous people. It’s pretty useless and random, but all the judges say yes anyway. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=33e50ad5-d6fd-4699-bb31-42ea8fa8d40c)
* X. L. - Twenty-five year old with a young child lays down some John Legend. He’s got a nice old-school soul style. I wonder if he’s ever tried out for American Idol? Hoff says he put across a beautiful vibe. Piers says he prefers his version over John Legend’s. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=ccf2e004-5f24-4187-937b-f2e37d144f69)
* Texas State Strutters - Yer typical precision-sports-dance team. YAWN. Hoff just stared at their boobs. Piers thought it was a little boring but fun. Sharon compares them to the Rockettes, but doesn’t see much of an act. Hoff and Piers say yes. Sharon says no. Typical. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=095a8bb8-9042-48da-a276-0e876ee06dad)
* Ronny B - Singer/dancer Ronny is the most entertaining act so far. But not in a good way. At one point, Ronny starts humping the backdrop. Piers calls it “weirdly entertaining.” OMG Piers and Sharon put him through. Pretty perverse. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=9d50eabc-d453-43f9-a925-c30103ce98ac)
* Robert and Daryl - Skeery Deliverence-like father son team play a trick with a Cobra called “Kiss of Death”. The son calls it “fun.” Piers doesn’t see the point of the act–unless it actually killed the snake-kissing father. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=ffce6694-b527-4fd0-897c-27d27efc8037)
* Michael Harrison - Ventriloquist who hopes to follow in the footsteps of last year’s winner Terry Fator. He’s got a semi-cute act that involved using a member of the audience as his “dummy.” The judges likey and send him on his way to Vegas. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=fde80b66-d695-415b-a614-298ec2ca4efa)
* Queen Emily - Tonight’s sob story: 40-year old mom who’s struggled to raise her children in the projects *cue the violins as the tears flow* She sings “Chain of Fools” in a big gospely voice. She’s a great singer, but it’s hard to imagine her on the charts versus leading the local church choir. As the judges start lauding her with compliments, she begins crying. The music swells, the crowd gives her a standing O. - Video (http://www.redlasso.com/ClipPlayer.aspx?id=66ebfce5-9c94-48d9-b82c-12ac98e83aea)

Oh, hallelujah! The final auditions are next week! Thank Jeebus.

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-6.htm)

AlanDale

July 30th, 2008, 12:03 PM

America’s Got Talent - EP 7
Published July 29th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/Daniel-Jens.jpg
....Specialist Daniel Jens

I’m WAY over these auditions. Thankfully, this week is the last. Vegas week begins next Tuesday with a Two Hour special, and then the Top 40 are revealed on Thursday.

This week, auditions submitted via My Space are featured.

Recap and Videos...

Michael Trixx - Magician - Michael does a “Rock and Roll” magic show. Sharon calls him a “rock and roll hobbit.” Actually, he looks a little like her husband. He looks so upset when the judges tell him he sucks. Which he does. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6add7_michael-trixx_music)

Diva Boy and the Sexplosion Dancers - Eh…What the heck? - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6adek_diva-boy_music)

Randy Hanson - An Ozzie Impersonator that Sharon actually seems to enjoy. They send him on to Vegas. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6adft_randy-hanson_music)

Holly Stone - Sob Story #1: Holly gave her baby up for adoption when she was 18. And she found her. Guess where. My Space!!! And now here she is, singing on America’s Got Talent, with her daughter waiting in the wings. She’s got a decent voice, nothing spectacular. But that backstory is hard to resist. The judges advance her to Vegas. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6adi1_holly-stone_music)

The Cadence - A percussion group–basically the Blue Man Group without the crazy blue faces. Not bad. Piers and Sharon thinks they need backing music. Sharon says no, Piers and Hoff say yes. Man, that was so set up! Please. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6adk8_the-cadence_music)

Sweetones - A mother daughter act. These two whistle out of tune. I’m beginning to get really cranky here! “Irritating, pointless, childish and a waste of time,” says Piers. Oh sorrow, my computer ate the clip I recorded, so you all will just have to imagine how much this bit sucked. (no Video!)

Specialist Daniel Jens - Sob Story #2 - And it’s time to pull out the patriot card! Soldier makes his fellow soldiers in Iraq feel better when he serenades them on guitar. He sings “I’ll Be” and he’s…pretty amateur. His wife waits backstage. But then, who cares if he can sing! He’s got the greatest back story evah! Well, at least Piers is honest and says he’s got to work on his singing. But still, the judges do not hesitate to advance him to Vegas. - (no Video!)

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-7.htm)

AlanDale

August 6th, 2008, 01:01 PM

America’s Got Talent - EP 8 - Vegas Week
Published August 5th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/opera_agt.jpg
.............Chaquita

F-I-N-A-L-L-Y, Vegas week begins on America’s Got Talent. Am I excited? Not really. But I started this thing, so I plan to soldier on…

On the first day, the judges appear on the Vegas stage in a most dramatic fashion to tell the auditioners that some of the acts will be booted before they even have the chance to perform for the first time. Cruel shenaningans, all for the sake of good Tee Vee!

Later that night, Sharon, Piers and Hoff watch acts on the hotel room TV. Supposedly, they are deciding who to cut (as if they don’t know already. Videos of contestants flash on the screen. Who will the judges cut tomorrow? At this point, the auditions have gone on for so long, I can’t remember half o them, so who cares?

The next morning the crew assembles. They are separated into 4 groups. Group A is staying in the competition. Group B, containing 19 acts, is eliminated, including one of the Sob Stories, Chellena, who had overcome cervical cancer to sing–a performance worthy of her church choir–maybe. Piers is in charge of telling the last two groups their fate, and he drips out the result one word at a time as if he’s forgotten how to speak the English language. We eventually learn that Group C and D are staying. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/10678350)

The next stage of the competition has the judges putting together similar acts to battle it out on the Vegas stage.

First, it’s the scintillating battle of the novelty acts. Fire Eater vs Grinder girl! Magicians fight it out to the end! Houdini wannabe vs Bed of Nails Guy! Russian crazy acrobatics chick vs….OMG I don’t give a crap. I couldn’t watch the sword-swallowing guy. Ew. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/10678422)

Next day–the variety acts continue, including the impersonators. Female impersonators lip sync to performances by Britney and Tina Turner. Eh. Not very impressive. Next up a crappy Elvis impersonator, Joseph Hall, continues not to impress. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6cvll_impersonators-variety_music)

The magicians are next. A magician named David does a sawing a girl in half act that goes wrong. He tries to pull a “I meant to do that” and it’s not very convincing. More cheesy acts follow. The judges give the group a fake lecture. Zzzz. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6cvmj_magic-variety_music)

The little kids are next. They shouldn’t even be there. Pushy stage parents who put their kids on parade piss me off. First, is a contortionist, Victoria Jacobi, who is probably doing permanent damage to her muscles and joints as we speak, and a little-boy break dancer. Eep. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6cvo4_child-variety_music)

The variety acts finish, and the next day, the judges choose who will move on. The brick breaker, Kevin Taylor, is eliminated, David, the crappy magician is eliminated. The contortionist and the little bitty dancer are also eliminated. The female impersonators and crappy Elvis impersonator inexplicably move on - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6cvpn_variety-elim_music)

34 Variety acts make it to the final day. 15 are cut.

The music acts are next. Opera is first. The singers aren’t as excruciating to get through. The guy who gave up his day job IS very average. As is Donald Graswell, the guy whose vocal chords were cut in a horrible accident. The opera cross dresser Chaquita is pretty entertaining. She sings both male and female roles. I vote for her! Neil E. Boyd was the sob story at the end of the very first audition show. Hm. He’s flat–a little better when he busts out the high notes. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/x6cvsd_opera-sing_music)

Kid singers are next. Fifteen year old Mia wants to be a role model for young girls. Nine year old David is an autistic musical savant who sang before he spoke. Add 4 year old singer Kaitlyn Maher, and the show has officially shifted into cute overload. Sharon worries about the little ones. No kidding! - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6czme_kids-sing_music)

Male vocalists are next. Army guy Daniel Jens, who had an average audition, sings an average “Home” by Michael Buble. Then he pulls a Brooke White and forgets the lyrics. He didn’t ask to start over. Chippendale dancer gives a decent performance. Kyle Rifkin, another R&B singer from New York, chokes on the high notes. He cries afterward, realizing he may have blown his chance. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/x6czy7_male-sing_music)

Time for the Female singers. The first, is Kat Williams, a blues singer. She looks like she could kick somebody’s ass. Sweet little Holly Harden from Texas is next. She’s tired of the farm! She’s ready for the bright lights! Yeah, she really says something like that. She performs a really sloppy version of….oh, it’s “When God Fearing Women Get the Blues”. I couldn’t tell at first. Queen Emily is a middle aged soul singer who gave up her career to raise children. She belts out “I’m Every Woman”. Pretty fierce. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6d0er_female-sing_music)

The music acts find out who made the cut. The kids are first. Ugh. Sorry kid, you suck! Oh wow, the older kids are cut. The little ones move on. The guys are next. All of the Opera singers are put through to the next round. Queen Emily makes it through. The blues singer is eliminated. The goofy chick from the small town, Holly Harden, is eliminated. All the male singers featured tonight advance. So does Eli Mattson from the early audition rounds. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/x6d0m0_music-elim_music)

On Thursday, more acts are cut in Vegas and the Top 40 is revealed.

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-8-vegas-week.htm)

AlanDale

August 9th, 2008, 10:07 PM

'America's Got Talent' recap: The top 40 revealed!
August 8, 2008, 10:53 AM | by Jaya Saxena
Source: Popwatch.EW.com (http://popwatch.ew.com/popwatch/2008/08/americas-got-ta.html?xid=rss-popwatch-20080808-%27America%27s%20Got%20Talent%27%20recap:%20The%20 top%2040%20revealed!)

I knew even before last night's episode began that we'd be lucky to see even a few minutes of performance shots interspersed with all the cheering, and the crying, and the sentimental music. And sure enough, I was right. Not that I'm patting myself on the back. America's Got Talent may be a lot of things, but unpredictable isn't one of 'em. Over-the-top emotional, however, is the show's strong suit, which is probably why the producers focused on individual judging sessions that put the contestants through hell as they waited to find out if they'd cracked the top 40.

This episode took the drama to uncomfortable levels, to the point where I became audibly mad at the Hoff when he played the cat to Queen Emily's ball of (gloriously talented) yarn. Hasselhoff bemoaned the singer's overwhelming emotional sensitivity, saying that he “wasn’t voting her through…because of her emotions, but because of her talent.” By the time he got to telling her she was in the final 40, Queen Emily was reduced to a mass of tears and sequins. Not right!

In the end, the Zooperstars, Derek the Britney impersonator, Chaquita, and Tapping Dads (among others) made it through, but not so for Dan Meyer, Miss PussyKatt, Junior and Emily, Lil Countrie and Page 1ne. The elimination of the last group, break dancers from New Orleans - Video (http://www.nbc.com/Americas_Got_Talent/video/#mea=283857), was particularly tough on this former NOLA resident, but all hope is not lost!

The night contained one one surprising twist: Christine from The Russian Bar Trio (one acrobatic act to make the cut) suffered a serious injury, and had to withdraw from the show, so America gets to vote who takes her place. Your choices are Donald Graswell (the man with the severed vocal chords), Lil Countrie and Page 1ne, Dan Meyer, Victoria Jacobi (little miss contortionist), Miss PussyKatt (chainsaw girl), Kyle Rifkin (soul vocalist), Xclusive (solo dancer), or Junior and Emily (ballroom dancing pair)? Choose wisely, or you may be seeing more of the following act. Eeep! - Video (http://www.nbc.com/Americas_Got_Talent/video/#mea=283858)

The judges made a slew of other "tough" "decisions" too, but with the Olympics on the immediate horizon, it all turned into an undeniable rush job. I kinda wish they'd have cut this episode altogether, then let us get to the real competition when the Beijing games are over. Is it just me? And who are you rooting for to win the whole ball of (yarn) wax?

AlanDale

August 27th, 2008, 12:40 AM

America’s Got Talent - EP 10 - Vegas / Videos
Published August 26th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/RonnieB.jpg
.............Ronnie B

Remember America’s Got Talent? It took a 3 week hiatus while NBC broadcast the Summer Olympics. The last episode had judges Piers Morgan, Sharon Osbourn and David Hasselhoff whittling down the contestants to 40 in Las Vegas.

Hoff reveals that an act had to withdraw. Damn! It’s the Russian Bar Trio! Remember the chick who jumped up and down on a skinny little bendy bar? Well, that looked dangerous. Not surprised she hurt herself. So, there was some kind of vote online (I completely missed this) to vote in an act who just missed out on the Top 40. I’ll bet it’s Donald Braswell, the singer with the cut vocal chords…And I’m right! This show is so easy to predict…

Donald Braswell is back in the competition - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/11021990)

You can vote for each of these contestants after the show is over, but there’s a limit–only 10 times by phone and 10 times by computer. Hm, interesting…

Extreme Dance FX - Clog dancing is up first. Electrifying! says host, Jerry Springer. I’ll be the judge of that. The dancing is a weird mixture of Clog dancing and Hip Hop, and it’s…different. The melding of those two styles doesn’t exactly work. The dancers are all young and attractive, so I’ll give them that. Piers admits that he wasn’t a fan initially, but thinks they are terrific tonight. Sharon says they were “on fire.” Hoff calls them an inspiration. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/11021247)

The James Gang - These guys were one of the few acts to really impress me during the Audition rounds. They’ve got a sob-backstory about coming out of the mean streets of Harlem. Doesn’t matter, their act is an interesting blend of Hip hop, Dixieland, Old-Time Jazz–a real clever mishmash of styles that comes together beautifully. I hope these guys survive tonight. Piers thinks they are terrific, but were trying a little to hard to impress. Sharon thought it was too much too soon. Cut me a break, they were way better than the Cloggers. Hoff repeats, not for the first time, and not for the last time, unfortunately, “You are what this contest is about.” The judges–not impressed with the group’s everything but the kitchen sink approach. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/11021387)

Derrick Barry - Cross dressing female impersonator lip syncs to Britney Spears. He wants America to see that Female Impersonating is a true art form. Eh, I’ve seen loads better on street corners in Provincetown, MA. The REALLY good ones don’t lip sync. Derrick yammers on about how much he loves Britney. He takes the stage dressed in Britney’s school girl outfit and performs “Hit Me Baby One More Time”. I guess he’s got the dance moves down, but so what? Piers says that he doesn’t think grown men should be wearing schoolgirl outfits pretending to be Britney Spears. Sharon says “Derrick, darling, I just love you.” Hoff says he’s questioning his sexuality. Well then. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6k87w_derrick-barry_music)

Elite - I can’t believe this act made it out of the auditions. It’s basically a 10 year old sparring with her father. She can beat people up. It’s really not much of an act. OMG, it’s more than her Dad. Now she’s fighting off actors pretending to be pirates. Her martial arts skills aren’t even that great. This is pretty lame, even for a kiddie act. Piers loved the creativity. “Way to go,” he says. Sharon says she’s going to be the new Laura Croft. Hoff says, “When I look at you, all I do is smile. You did a great job tonight.” Tough to dis a kid, I guess. She says she wants to be a stunt woman. That sounds reasonable. A Las Vegas act does not. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/x6k8ab_elite-girl_music)

Ronnie B - This is pretty worthless. If I were an act with even a little bit of talent cut from the Top 40, I’d be sitting in my chair fuming as I watch this. Advancing this guy to the Top 40 is like advancing William Hung to the Top 24 on American Idol. He’s even singing “She Bangs”. Piers says he brings a lot of enthusiasm, and that he’s fun and entertaining. Sharon wants to put him on the top of her TV as an ornament, then compares him to Jiminy Cricket. Hoff says he looks like a Human Ant. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/11021626)

The Cadence - This band of young, attractive male drummers got a no from Sharon initially. They were asked to add music to their act. They do (”Beat It” by Michael Jackson), but frankly, I think it makes the act less interesting. It’s like Karaoke drumming. Did I mention that these guys are cute? Yeah, they are. That will probably save them. Piers thinks the music helped, but that the start needed to be more dynamic. Sharon says they need “animal conviction.” “You’re bashing drums,” Sharon says, “No more nice.” I have to say I agree. These guys are dull. Hoff says they need to tighten it up. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/x6k8g9_the-cadence_music)

Jessica Price - Finally a singer. One that doesn’t suck. She covers Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” with a bit of a country twang and an acoustic guitar. It’s lovely. Her backstory has to do with lack of confidence and an estranged dad. But who cares? The audience gives her a standing O. Piers says it was fantastic, but she should lighten up and smile more. Sharon says she sang beautifully. Hoff congratulated her on combating her nerves and says she has a chance to win the whole competition. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/x6k8ej_jessica-price_music)

Shimshi - He’s wanted to be a magician since he was a little kid, despite people not believing in him, he has pursued his dream. Hm. His act involves kicking a playing card with his sticky foot! It’s magic! Or not. I say not. Even for a card trick, it was really, really boring. I would not pay to see that. Piers isn’t impressed either. Sharon thought his execution and timing were perfect. Hoff thought he needed to step it up. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/x6k8nq_shimshi-magician_music)

DC Cowboys - It’s Brokeback meets Broadway! It’s the Gay Cowboys! They dance jauntily to “Footloose”. Not exactly a Vegas caliber act, maybe the local gay club, but not the big time. Lot’s of eye candy for the boys though. They take their shirts off at the end. They prolly did that just for Piers! Piers says they are way way below the dancing ability needed for the contest. Sharon congratulates them on their “enthusiasm.” Hoff says they were just a little off tonight. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/11021831)

Neal E. Boyd - OMG, this Opera singer/insurance salesman from way back in the first Audition episode had a big sob story that included his mother. He cried a lot then. But in the meantime, his grandmother has died! Sob story bonanza! She got to see him perform on TV right before she passed on. He performs a heartfelt “Somewhere” from West Side Story. Of course he bursts into tears at the end as he gets a standing O. Piers says that his grandmother was watching that, calls him the Michael Phelps of the competition, and says he’s the one to beat. Sharon says he has likability. Hoff says the place for him is right at the top. The judges are pimping him for sure. Maybe they are looking for an American Paul Potts, the winner from last year’s Britain’s Got Talent? - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/krunkyou/video/11021945)

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-10-vegas-week.htm#more-5500)

AlanDale

August 28th, 2008, 11:27 AM

]America’s Got Talent - EP 10 - LA / Videos
Published August 27th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/Zoo-AGT.jpg
...........Zooperstars

10 more acts compete tonight for a spot in the Top 20. We also find out which 5 acts from last night will advance to the next round.

First, we find out which contestants made the cut. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6klyr_elimination-1st-5_music)

Extreme FX and Ronnie B take center stage: Extreme FX makes the cut. Shimshi and Jessica Price take center stage Card kicker is toast, I know it…YES. Jessica Price makes the cut. DC Cowboys and The Cadence take center stage. The Cadence move on. This is too easy. Neal E. Boyd and Derrick Barry take center stage. Neal E. Boyd makes the cut. The suspense is killing me! The James Gang and Elite came in last in the vote, which means the judging panel saves the act. Elite, the little martial arts girl, is crying. Piers tells her to stop it, cause he’s just about to crush her dreams. Piers chooses The James Gang. Sharon also chooses with The James Gang. Something about them being old and needing them money, or something. Which means The James Gang makes the cut. The little martial arts girl looks destroyed, which is why she should be at home playing with dolls or something. NOT competing in some TV reality show.

The next 10 compete:

Beyond Belief Dance Company - Ohh the local Texas high school dance team is trying out for America’s Got Talent! There’s a lot of jumping around on stage. I’m probably spoiled because I just finished watching the latest season of So You Think You Can Dance. They’re just a’ight. Piers said it was a “bit of a ropey start…as it all came together, it was electrifying.” “Keep it tight, stay close,” says Piers. You wish, Piers. “Very sassy,” says Sharon, “but you have to take it to a higher level.” She suggests adding clogging. What? Hoff, the easily amused one, says, “You nailed it.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6km14_beyond-belief_music)

Paul Salos - (72) Frank Sinatra impersonator. He sounds nothing like Frank Sinatra. He’s grandpa in a Frank Sinatra hat singing Frank Sinatra songs. He’s not going to make it to the next round. I continue to be amazed at the suckitude of the acts that are advancing. This is pathetic. Piers says, “…You’ve got his moves, you’ve got his charms, you’ve got his personality…I want to see you swing into the finals.” Is Piers high? He’s got hold of Paula’s stash. Sharon says, “You’re just fantatastic” Hoff says, “I’m sure Frank Sinatra is looking down right now and saying, ‘Yeah Baby.’” These guys are patronizing this dude. They praised him so much, he may just make the cut. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6km3g_paul-salos_music)

Kazual - Eep. These guys have sacrificed everything to pursue their dreams, but this group of boybanders–kind of a Boys 2 Men knock off–who really aren’t boys any more, are terrible singers. Well one guy can sorta sing. But over all, this is just sad to watch. Piers says the harmonies are good, but as lead vocalists, they don’t cut it. Sharon says the vocals were way, way off. Hoff says, “You were nervous, that’s what happened…you know what? You pulled it together in the end…I hope America gives you a 2nd chance.” No they weren’t and no they shouldn’t. Piers pipes in to say it wasn’t nerves, that the lead singer was good, but the rest were not. Hoff contradicts himself, “Well then, just have the lead singer sing lead!” Whatever. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6km60_kazual-group_music)

The Zooperstars - These guys, in big cartoon outfits running around the stage, are completely random and pointless. They say really serious things like, “We’re going to kick some butt” in their big cartoon outfits and it’s hilarious. They’re like reject sports mascots. It’s actually pretty retarded, and I mean that in a good way. Piers plays the heavy. He wants to take a giant harpoon and take the air out of their costumes. Sharon says, “Alrighty then, I can’t believe I’m giving comments to a duck…I don’t know whether your act will sustain an hour and a half in Vegas.” Hoff who is pretty pointless and retarded himself, loved them. Well, as long as we’re advancing no-talents, I say we advance these guys. They’re semi-amusing, at least. I may vote tonight. Ok, I’m kidding, no I won’t. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6km80_zooperstars-puppets_music)

Ozzy Osbourne in the house!

The Wright Kids - Cute kids who play bluegrass. They’re actually talented kids, but TOO YOUNG. Stay home, play with your friends, go to school! They decide to play a pop tune, “Daydream Believer” rather than a\ bluegrass. It’s not bad considering how very young they are. The bass player looks to be about 7–and he’s playing one of those giant stand-up basses. Piers says, “I love you guys, not the best singers in the world, but you make up for it with great charm.” Sharon says, “You took a big risk, you are very brave, it paid off.” Hoff says, “It was like watching the Partridge Family…we need to get back to those values.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6kmag_wright-kids_music)

Jonathan Arons - Jonathon, the double threat! He dances….and…wait for it…plays trombone! Uh. OK! Wait, is that a dying animal wailing off stage? The trombone playing is heinous. Jonathan, in a sparkley blue suit, not only sounds horrible, but has uber-lame dance moves. Piers calls him incredibly entertaining. Sharon says he’s a great entertainer, but she also calls him out on his crappy trombone playing. But I don’t think she cares. Ditto for Hoff. “You’re like a live cartoon,” says Hoff. A live cartoon that makes my ears bleed. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6kmcg_jonathan-arons_music)

Daniel Jens - I remember this guy from the auditions. Daniel just came back from Iraq–naturally they’re pulling the patriot card. He sings the Police’s “Every Breath You Take.” Thanks for defending America, Daniel. But your singing, it ain’t all that. I have to say, though, he’s putting everything he’s got into his performance. Daniel gets an A for effort. Piers says that he hasn’t heard a singing voice yet from him that belongs in Vegas. “Great song choice,” says Sharon, “You have to be careful of your breathing, but otherwise, you were perfect.” Hoff says, “You took the stage…you’re a man, you inspire me.” Really Hoff? Maybe we should bring back the DC Cowboys… - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6kmey_daniel-jens_music)

The Slippery Kittens - Wait, these chicks perform their slutty act in a club in Salt Lake City, Utah? They call themselves the Slippery Kittens? That must go down well with the local elders! And I don’t mean to say that Burlesque is slutty, it’s just that the act is so inept and obvious, it verges on vulgar. Not surprised they keep advancing–the lowest common denominator is what America’s Got Talent is all about! Piers said, “When you took your clothes off, I wanted you to put them back on.” Sharon says, “I think he needs glasses…I can see you strutting your stuff in Vegas.” Says Hoff, “All I can say is, June is busting out all over.” Well, that made no sense. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6kmg5_slippery-kittens_music)

George The Giant - Describes himself as a 7 ft 3” guy who does weird things to himself. He put himself into the hospital during rehearsal. Wow, the circus freak show has come to AGT! OMG this is so corny. Now he’s invoking Harry Houdini. He’s hanging upside down, and a bunch of kids come out with whiffle bats and start beating him. He’s a human pinata! A bunch of candy comes spilling out. That was supposed to be dangerous? Entertaining? I guess he was kidding! Piers calls it pathetic. “Silly, Silly, Silly,” says Sharon. Then why did you advance this clown? Isn’t this supposed to be the semi-finals? “Very strange,” says Hoff. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x6kmh2_george-the-giant_music)

Queen Emily - Emily gave her dreams of being a singer up to raise her daughters. SOB. Zz. She sings “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”. She takes the stage in a long red dress with a train. She’s got a couple of boy dancers to back her up and tend to her train. She’s a decent belter, and I forsee a lifetime of Pride festivals in Emily’s future. Like last night, the show ending sob-story performer gets a big standing O from the judges and the audience. Piers says, “We have found a Superstar…we’ve found someone who can beat Michael Phelps.” Well, Piers just knocked Neal Boyd off his perch! Hoff says, “You have just thrown this competition in complete disarray, you are now absolutely the front runner.” Gah, this is so contrived! They are obviously setting up a fake competition between Neal and Emily. You’d think they’d at least let the competition play out for a few weeks before setting up phony rivalries. These peeps cut right to the chase! - (no Video!)

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-10-10-more-acts-compete-video.htm#more-5507)

AlanDale

August 28th, 2008, 09:15 PM

NBC renews 'America's Got Talent'
Most-watched show of the summer gets fourth season
August 27, 2008, 11:00 PM ET
By James Hibberd

NBC has renewed “America’s Got Talent” for a fourth season.

“The production team has stepped up their game creatively as proven by the strong ratings,” said NBC’s president of alternative programming Craig Plestis. “This is the only show where truly unique and talented performers can achieve their ultimate dream.”

“Got Talent” is the most-watched show of the summer and ranked third among programs in the adults 18 to 49 demographic. The series took a break during NBC’s presentation of the Olympics, then resumed Tuesday at 8 p.m. and easily led the night.

Source: Hollywood Reporter (http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/news/e3i3338808b4eeae51f3343f3363b7d6473)

AlanDale

September 3rd, 2008, 10:11 AM

America’s Got Talent - EP 11 - LA / Videos
Published September 2nd, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/JosephHall.jpg
...........Joseph Hall

10 more acts perform for a spot in the Top 20. But first, it’s last week’s eliminations. Five acts from last week will move on to the next round.

Last Wednesday’s contestants take the stage. After the obligatory re-cap, host Jerry Springer calls Paul Salos and Slippery Kittens to center stage. Paul Salos advances to the next round. Slippery Kittens are eliminated. Jonathon Arons and The Wright Kids take the stage. The Wright Kids advance to the next round. Jonathon Arons is eliminated. Daniel Jens and George The Giant take the stage. Daniel Jens advances to the next round. George The Giant is eliminated. Kasual and Queen Emily take the stage. Queen Emily advances to the next round. Kasual is eliminated.

The 5th act is chosen by the Judges. Beyond Belief Dance Company and the Zooperstars are left. The dance company are pretty mediocre. The Zooperstars, a motley crew of sports mascots is absolutely idioctic. For that reason, I want them to advance. But, I’ll bet the judges ditch the Zooperstars. The mob will not rule. Damn. Piers chooses the dance company. But, OMG Sharon picks the Zooperstars! Yay! The Hoff vacillates for a bit, but he eventually goes with the Zooperstars. Those dancers must feel like crap losing to a bunch of giant puppets.

Advancing to the Top 20: Paul Salos, The Wright Kids, Daniel Jens and the Zooperstars. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k1SR7QLX92nk5NKMyw)

The Texas State Strutters - Friday Night football comes to TV! And it’s every bit as corny, cheesy and boring as one might imagine. Please send these girls back to the pageant circuit and get them off my Tee Vee. NOW. As Piers delivers his withering critique, the gals manage to keep big plastic smiles plastered on their faces. Sharon calls it amateur and fesses up to be the judge that kept buzzing them during their performance. Hoff calls it “squirrely” and not together, and then admits that he thought the Beyond Belief Dance Company were better. Actually, they both sucked. The head strutter, still with the big smile, says “We did our best and had the time of our lives!” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/kK6to70K2xC1wkKMzF)

Michael Strelo-Smith - Another overweight Opera singer. Except, unlike Neal E. Boyd, he’s not one of the chosen ones, cause his performance is second, rather than last. Like most of the singers in this competition, he’s mediocre. But he’s even more amateur than the others. Holy cow, that high note at the end was HORRIBLE. Yikes. The poor guy gave up his day job as a music teacher. I hope he can find another soon. He sucked so bad, he got buzzed. Piers pretty much hated everything about the performance, and called it karaoke. Michael talks back to Piers, all indignant. “You can’t see what’s inside of me!” Michael whines. Sharon says his performance screamed “music teacher.” Hoff says he likes that he never gives up, and that he did a damn good job. “You showed your students the way to go–follow your dreams.” Terrible performance + mouthing off to the judges = Bye bye Michael. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k69jKBTXfeTvGbKMAL)

Bruce Block - I love these contestants who talk so seriously about giving up their entire lives for acts that are…ridiculous. This guy is supposed to be a magician. Tonight, he’s got midgets on stage with him, and a miniature horse. The act goes on and on and on with no payoff whatsoever. I have no idea what the hell that was. Piers tells him he tried the oldest trick in the book, and that he blew it spectacularly. Hoff says he was confused. When Hoff is confused, you know that’s bad. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k59kEI3FxwNnATKMBl)

Chaquita - Chaquita is a drag queen. She sings “I Will Survive” in an operatic voice. I don’t know how to describe it. It’s sort of interesting, but it’s not very good. The high notes were ear-splitting. Ouchie. Piers points out that he’s sounded better in the past. Sharon calls the song “very very high.” Hoff calls him a one man/one woman party. Chaquita should have stuck to singing both male and female parts like he did during his audition. But at least, this is better than some cross dresser lip syncing to a pop record. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k1fmBbPU0PL6FKKMFY)

The Taubl Family - The old fashioned family band sang “Sound of Music” for their audition. They try to update the act by singing “Umbrella”. It’s woefully, painfully, terribly, out of tune. If they were better singers, they might have pulled it off. But as it is. Uhm. NO. Piers says the entire family act works. He calls it terrific. Sharon loves it too. OK! Hoff likes their old-fashioned sound, but thinks the musical update gives them the edge. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k5zOKZLksn83m4KMC9)

Jonathan Burkin - I remember this kid from the auditions. His back story is that his love of baton twirling made him the target of bullies back home. And he’s actually really, really good, twirling and juggling several fire tipped batons at once. He’s an act I actually find myself rooting for. “Incredible,” Piers calls it and compares him to last year’s winner Terry Fator. Sharon calls it “Amazing.” Hoff thinks he’s the best baton twirler in the world. As if Hoff has seen other baton twirlers to compare. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k1KG6CfSTHCnpXKMDp)

Sarah Lenore - Ok, another blonde singer. Now I’m confused. There was one last week, and I think I have them mixed up. This one actually has a great relationship with her Dad. She sings “I’m Not Ready To Play Nice” by the Dixie Chicks and she calls it “risky”. What, she’s afraid of pissing off her Republican base? She’s more confident than last week’s blond chick, and hotter, so she’ll probably eventually prevail. She’s got a decent, big voice. Piers says she started off a little shaky then finished well. Sharon tells her to be careful not to shout the high notes. Hoff says he bets she’ll be in the Top 10. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k3lzERob3BqFrGKMJa)

SickStep - This Hip Hop Crew is OK, not So You Think You Can Dance good, but decent enough. That’s the trouble with this show. The talent level is usually only just decent. Piers says they did a “damn good job” tonight and that they proved they are more than just street entertainers. Sharon says they owned the stage. “You guys are SICK!” Hoff says, “Next time, bring more ATTITUDE!” And that Hoff surely knows all about street attitude. Hoff isn’t only down with the baton twirlers, y’all. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k4aNfHs9X3WiRAKMEC)

Matthew Piazzi - Are there really old-fashioned stand up impersonators playing Vegas? No matter. He’s terrible. He’s playing “Great Balls Of Fire” as different characters, and it comes off like a psych patient entertaining his fellow patients in the ward. It’s a mess. Piers says, “You blew it big time…the moment you went to the piano, the audience went dead.” Piers compliments Matthew on his voices. You mean the ones in his head, Piers? Sharon says he has to work on his “writing.” Hoff says, “I don’t know what show they’ve been watching, I think you were great!” Hoff no doubt relates to that whole multiple personality thing. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k7yVelHZtGoQkAKMGM)

Joseph Hall - I can’t believe this guy is last. He’s an Elvis impersonator. Outside of the Elvis deal, he’s a really cute guy. But his Elvis impersonating stinks. Tonight, he’s got the whole “Jailhouse Rock” setup. He’s cute as can be, but really–the Elvis impersonator who marries people at the Little White Chapel is better. The guys in the audience are booing him. I’m sure a producer instigated that. Piers thinks the singing was wobbly and that he looked nervous tonight. Sharon mentions that it’s hard to dance and sing at the same time. She adds, “You’ve lost that bit of naughtiness, bring it back…please be dirty for me.” OK, Sharon! Hoff commiserates with the dancing and singing thing. Because, along with being down with baton twirlers and urban street crews, he’s Mr. Broadway! - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k7k8UYwkoIsnTyKMHO)

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-11-10-more-acts-compete-video.htm)

AlanDale

September 4th, 2008, 08:02 AM

America’s Got Talent - EP 12 - LA / Videos
Published September 3rd, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/Eli_Mattson.jpg
............Eli Mattson

It just happens to be EVERYONE’s dream to make it to Vegas! But which of last night’s 10 acts will be sent home tonight?

After the recap, host, Jerry Springer, announces that Bruce Block is ill and won’t be attending the show. But who cares. He’s been eliminated. The Texas State Strutters and Jonathan Burkin take center stage. Of course, Jonathan Burkin advances to the next round. All hell would have broken loose otherwise. Sarah Lenore and Shequida take center stage. Sarah Lenore advances to the next round. Matthew Piazzi and Joseph Hall take center stage. Joseph Hall advances to the next round. The Taubl Family, Michael Strelos-Smith and and Sickstep take center stage. America decided that…The Taubl Family advances to the next round. The judges choice (they choose between the 5th and 6th place finishers) is between Michael Strelos-Smith and Sickstep. Ha ha. Michael must be regretting mouthing off to the judges right about now. Piers chooses Sickstep. He tells Michael he’s not half as good as he thinks he is. Sharon also goes with Sickstep. Sickstep advances to the next round.

And the acts moving on are: Sarah Lenore, The Taubl Family, Jonathan Burkin, Joseph Hall and Sickstep! - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k5p19U3vSgVgQdKRbW)

The Dallas Desperados Dancers - Gah. Another Texas dance team. I don’t care, I don’t care, I don’t care. Why is this show filled with the equivalent of high school drill teams? It must be the T&A factor, not so much that they’re going to move on. Piers didn’t like them tonight, though he did in the past. Sharon says, “It’s not good enough…not going to get a headlining act in Vegas.” Oh, so that was Sharon who buzzed them. Hoff says they missed a little bit of their edge and precision tonight. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k4uYAQRGk5beqHKRdN)

Bryan Cheatham - He’s an ex-Chippendale’s dancer turned singer. Ohhh. Mom and Dad did not approve of the Chippendale’s deal! He quit his job dancing and now he feels clean! Hallelujah. Unfortunately, it appears that singer in second spot = cannon fodder. And like the other second spotters before him….there goes the buzzer!…he’s pretty dreadful. Piers says he’s improved, but he’s only good to be a headline act on a cruise ship. Sharon says he’s got to cut the cheese, the winking…you’re not using your soul. “Cut the crap, and you’d be good,” she adds. Hoff says he nailed it in the second half. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k3JmA27O00RYrdKRfW)

Flambeaux - It’s some sort of fire-eating act, but seriously, what the hell was that? First he burns his clothes off, after he stalks around the stage eating fire. There are dancers and singers around him also doing weird things with fire. Really, pretty pointless and stupid. And I don’t believe for a minute that it’s dangerous, because I’m sure they are all covered with flame retardent. Piers says, “You’re wacked…your act is like walking intro a weird druid glenn…it’s time to stop.” Sharon thought the timing was off and it was slow and boring. Nooooo. Hoff says, “The point is to bring people into Vegas, but I think you’d scare them away. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k533YgQqfN2FfUKRhe)

Kaitlyn Maher - Adorable 4 year old who should be at home playing with blocks. She’s cuter than a basketful of puppies and kittens, as she sings “Wonderful World”. She remembers all the words too! But, seriously, what 4 year old is headlining an act in Vegas? And how will they break the news to her when she’s finally eliminated? Bah. I blame the parents. Soooo…how do the judges critique, that? Piers says, “You look like a princess tonight…you have more charm, more star quality than all the acts I’ve seen.” That’s how you do it, you don’t talk about the performance at all! Sharon actually gives her some constructive criticism. “Maybe next time you can do some movement…move around your arms.” Hoff says, “You should run for president…you bring us all together”. Little Kaitlyn just keeps repeating “thank you…thank you…thank you…” over and over again, just like mommy told her to. She obviously has no comprehension of what the judges are telling her. Now it’s off to hours and hours of practice…got to incorporate those arm movements! - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k34OSizwJ9J66cKRin)

Dorae Saunders - Really really bad Tina Turner impersonator. Dorea drops down to the stage on a big disco ball while Tina Turner’s “Disco Inferno” plays. Why would America want to see bad, out-of-shape drag queens lip syncing? I suspect they don’t. Piers tells Dorea he looks fabulous. Liar! Then, Piers adds that he can’t put him through because he doesn’t actually sing. Then why did you advance him? Dorea thinks he’s just like Audrey Hepburn and Angela Bassett–actresses who lipsynched in movies. As if that’s the same thing. Sharon, inexplicably, loves him. Calls him a superstar! Hoff says “Only in America can a transexual play to 20 million people.” I hate to break it to you Hoff, but I think Dorea still has his/her male parts. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k79neQGyJuVpj9KRjE)

Donald Braswell - He came back in a wild card after the fabulous Russian Bar Trio bowed out due to injury. His backstory is that he’s singing again after an accident that cut his vocal cords. He sings “The Impossible Dream” Natch! He’s actually better than some of the singers they put through. But, that’s probably why he didn’t make it in the first place. He doesn’t make great cannon fodder. Still, nice vocal tone, but his phrasing leaves a lot to be desired. Donald thanks America for voting him in. Piers says, “America was absolutely right to vote you back in.” Sharon says, “You sang beautifully tonight.” But then she hints that he might be a little old-fashioned and then tells him to lighten up. Hoff says, “You nailed it, man.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k6MPlBTJVCPhZqKRlN)

Indiggo - These two aren’t for real. Are they? They can’t be. This is a put on. They sing an original song, “I don’t need no Georgie Clooney.” It’s the worst song ever. Piers says, “The sooner you are shipped backed to Rumania, the better…you are the worst dancers and worst singers in the entire competition.” I’ll bet they aren’t even Romanian. Sharon says, “You’re darlings…where did you get that awful song?” and they explain the song was written by a German. A bloody German! “Watch it,” says Hoff. And then, “I like watching you.” Creepy! - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k3HY2IZqFtJAnvKRmC)

The Tapping Dads - They tap so they can practice with their daughters. Or something. Gah, these acts are so freaking lame. They dance to “Putting On The Ritz” in tuxedoes and top hats. If Frankenstein had come out to dance with them? I’d vote for that. Ha ha…for those of you who have seen Young Frankenstein… Anyway. Yeah. Lame. I can’t believe I’m sitting through this. Piers asks, “Would you like me to judge you as good dads or dancers?” After he gets the go-ahead he says, “If Fred Astair could watch that, he’d turn in his grave.” Then, Sharon gets really really fake mad at Piers. Then she says, “What you lack in technique, you make up for in heart.” Doesn’t this contradict what she said at the top of the show about the bar being set higher at this point in the competition. Hoff screams, “I find you highly entertaining.” Of course he does! - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k7z1Hkq5yyyrcBKRnF)

Eli Mattson - The only singer in this bunch with true superstar talent, and he doesn’t have the pimp spot? What the hell? I don’t recognize the song he’s singing but it’s fabulous. Eli’s performance is mesmerizing. He’s way too good for this show. I’m actually upset he’s even on it. Piers says, “I have one word for you…sensational.” Sharon says, “Just your voice, piano… that’s all you need. A star.” Hoff says, “Top 10 baby.” That’s all? Top 10? I say he should win. Eli and baton-boy, Jonathan Burkin should be Top 2. The judges make a lot of noise about all the crazy acts…and here comes a contestant who actually has talent! Well, whoop-di-do. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k6xnFrNg91lNQZKRkL)

Nuttin But Stringz - However, these guys, from the mean streets of Queens (really?) who play Hip Hop violins are a very unusual act. And actually, they are pretty compelling. They are talented violin players and they manage to incorporate Hip Hop elements into their playing very creatively. It’s pretty intense stuff. Piers says, “You guys are my favorite act in the competition.” Sharon likes their tone and loves the crossover. Hoff says, “You move us with your music.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k13Q4Ri9k5V4NWKRoy)

Jerry Springer rambles on and on to kill extra time…and were done. Next Tuesday, we find out who moves on to the Top 20: I say: Kaitlyn Maher, Donald Braswell, Eli Mattson, Nuttin’ But Stringz and–moms all over America are voting–The Tapping Dads.

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-12-the-last-10-acts-compete-video.htm)

AlanDale

September 7th, 2008, 05:12 PM

Reality TV's heavy hitters set to test 'Talent'
By John Gonzalez | The Grand Rapids Press
Sunday September 07, 2008, 6:11 AM
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/JPrice.jpg
...........Jessica Price

In weeks to come, the reality TV wars will heat up as some of the genre's heavyweights join the fray.

NBC's hit franchise "Biggest Loser" and the pioneering CBS series "Survivor," which this season sends 18 castaways to Gabon, Africa, will weigh in -- which begs the question:

How will surprise hit "America's Got Talent" do once the big boys come to play?

Ratings for "Talent" continue to impress. It remains the No. 1 show on television, drawing more than 11 million viewers weekly.

Even during the Democratic National Convention, "Talent" landed in the top spot on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, while Barack Obama's Thursday-night speech drew 38 million overall viewers across numerous commercial and cable networks. (Ratings from last week's program will be released in the next couple of days.)

In West Michigan, all eyes will be glued to Freeport resident Jessica Price, who remains among the Top 20 contestants. Her performance will air Tuesday or Wednesday. Then on Thursday, NBC will air a half-hour results show. That's when we find out if Price lands one step closer to winning the top prize of $1 million and a chance to host her own Las Vegas show.

"I just wanted to let you know that Jessica is really amazing," wrote friend Megan Crapse in a recent e-mail to me. "Jes is making her dreams come true now, and the entire church is supportive."

Price is a worship leader at Thornapple Valley Church in Hastings, and one of the favorites of judges David Hasselhoff, Sharon Osbourne and Piers Morgan. Does she have a chance of making her dreams come true?

That's part of the appeal of reality TV, which, though it's low-budget programming for networks starving for ratings, can make stars out of anything or anyone.

"The Biggest Loser: Families" takes viewers on the personal weight-loss journey of average joes. Season six will begin at 8 p.m. Sept. 16 on NBC with host Alison Sweeney and trainers Bob Harper and Jillian Michaels. Eight husband-and-wife or parent-and-child teams will compete for the top prize of $250,000.

In the premiere, the trainers visit the contestants' hometowns to tell them they've been chosen, then whisk them away to the show's ranch in California.

Look for the Detroit area's Amy Cremen, 26, and mom Shelley, 51, as The Purple Team, trained by Michaels.

"Survivor: Gabon -- Earth's Last Eden," with host Jeff Probst, is back for its 17th season -- yes, 17th season! It's the first season shot in high definition, which means we'll get a better view of insect bites and challenges that often result in wardrobe malfunctions. The premiere is at 8 p.m. Sept. 25 on CBS.

Source: Mlive.com (http://www.mlive.com/grpress/entertainment/index.ssf/2008/09/reality_tvs_heavy_hitters_set.html)

AlanDale

September 10th, 2008, 08:26 AM

America’s Got Talent - EP 13 - LA / Videos
Published September 9th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-13-10-acts-compete-for-the-top-10.htm)

Results from last week:

* Nuttin But Strings and Indiggo take the stage. Gee I wonder who is safe? Nuttin But Strings advance to the next round.
* Flambeaux and Kaitlyn Maher take the stage. The fire eater is going DOWN. Kaitlyn Maher advances to the next round.
* Dorea Saunders and Eli Mattson take the stage. Eli Mattson advances to the next round.
* The Dallas Desperados Dancers and Donald Braswell takes the stage. Donald Braswell advances to the next round.
* Bryan Cheatham and The Tapping Dads came in 5th and 6th, so the judges choose. Piers has to decide between the “cruise ship crooner” and “Fred Astair’s worst nightmare.” Piers chooses Bryan Cheatham. Sharon picks The Tapping Dads. Hoff breaks the tie. He choose The Tapping Dads. The Tapping Dads advance to the next round.

Going on to the Top 10: Nuttin But Strings, Kaitlyn Maher, Eli Mattson, Donald Braswell and The Tapping Dads. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/kHqFgzb3FmIK2uLhEv)

The Cadence - The cute drummer boys are back! They think Sharon is their toughest critic. They want to impress her. How about biting the head off of a bat? That might do it. They drum to the riff of “You’ve Really Got Me”. They throw in some acrobatics, but the drumming itself is still kind of boring. Piers says, “You guys listen to what we tell you…tonight for the first time I saw an act that could play in Vegas.” Sharon says, “Guys, you’ve come a long way…I know you’re going to come back next week…I want even more attitude.” Hoff says, “I’VE been your biggest critic…but tonight you proved me wrong.” Eh, whatever. I still think the boys are cute, but boring. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k6KT6jpe27CldzLhI8)

Queen Emily - She sings “Hero” by Mariah Carey, and she belts her heart out. Not bad. Piers says, “that was a big brave song…when you wail, you wail!” Sharon says, “I really enjoyed the way you paced your song…I can’t wait until the final so I can hear you sing a whole song.” Hoff says, “I’m so glad we’re on this ride with you, ’cause you’re going straight to the top.”

The Wright Kids - The youngest kid appears to be the spokesperson for the group. Hm. Up the cute factor! They are a bluegrass group normally, but they’ve switched up to pop for the competition. Tonight they sing “Rockin’ Robin”. The sister doesn’t add much, but the boys, in leather jackets wielding their instruments–one of them is playing a bass twice as big as he is–shoot the cuteness factor into the stratosphere. Piers says, “Each week I see you guys I think it’s your last week…this week is the best I’ve seen you.” Sharon says, “great confidence, you owned the stage tonight…I can’t wait to see what you do next week.” Hoff says, “You took the stage like a pro…you can headline Vegas!” Really Hoff? Keep your hands off the hamburgers!

The James Gang - Even with all the mistakes, I think I liked the crazy magic act from last week better. This performance of “Hit the Road Jack” was pretty straightforward and dull. The vocals were off, they sounded a bit breathless. Piers thought they were off. Sharon thinks they’ve gone backwards rather than forward since their first appearance. Hoff says, “If you come back, it has to be tighter.” Yeah, I don’t know what’s up, but this performance wasn’t very good. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k25JHBh3WWzrzNLhMj)

Daniel Jens - Should Daniel reenlist in the army or try to live his dream? Decisions, decisions. What’s that he’s singing? Eep! Reenlist Daniel…cause your singing does not cut it. The verse is unintelligible and the chorus is pitchy. Ohhh, Piers just buzzed him. Piers says “I like you personally, but I don’t want to patronize you. Compared to the other singers, you aren’t in their league.” Piers advises him to reenlist. For some reason, this pisses off Sharon. She thinks he did really well. Sharon tells him he’s likable and that it doesn’t matter that his singing isn’t the best. Piers tries to interrupt her, but she cuts him off. Fake fight! She tells Daniel not to reenlist. “You’ve done your time,” she says. Hoff babbles on about having heart. He says, “You move me.” Eh. I think he’s got neither great vocal chops, or charisma. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k6LqRFMjjFTMYWLhJd)

The Zooperstars - Thank Jeebus for comic relief! The Zooperstars are like a bunch of retarded sports mascots. OMG this is ridiculous. Why am I laughing? This is so incredibly stupid. I mean, really really stupid. I hope they make the Top 10. Piers says, “I don’t know what you’re still doing in this competition.” Piers asks America to please stop voting for them. Sharon says, “You don’t make me laugh anymore…it’s time for you to go.” When one of the giant puppets shows her his ass, Sharon says, “My ass is bigger than yours.” Hoff says, “The kids really love you…but I think you’ve reached the end of the road.” The Zooperstars are getting the bums rush! I may vote for them tonight. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k75aHUy13hPHXWLhQw)

Neal E. Boyd - The sob story continues. His mom couldn’t be in the audience last week because they couldn’t afford it. His hometown raised the money this week, so she’s here so he can dedicate his song, about a mother’s love, to her. Oh dear God, this song actually is about mothers. Could this be any more saccharine and cheaply sentimental? I’m seriously beginning to hate this guy. And his “Opera” singing isn’t all that. Oh, let’s point out the crying mama in the audience! Piers tells his mother, “We’re developing a major talent here…he’s got a brilliant chance of winning America’s Got Talent.” Oh God, noooo. Sharon says, “You’re HOT tonight…you look like a superstar…you sang like a superstar…I loved the song choice.” Ooooh, Hoff is so impressed with Neal, he dashed off a few notes before his performance. OMG Hoff’s mother is here tonight, too. “Fantastic job,” says Hoff. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/kyjt94kumRDSAtLhO7)

Jessica Price - She’s one of two blond singers in this competition, and I’m having trouble keeping them straight. This one is meeker and sweeter than the other one. Sharon buzzes her before she even starts to sing. Having a Paula moment Sharon? She sings “Bubbly” by Colbie Callait. She looks and sounds nervous. So nervous, her eyes are bugging out of her head, like she’s afraid she’s going to explode. Awkward! She gets buzzed again. Really, she sounds very amateur tonight. Piers says he buzzed her because he thought she was a bit cheesy, like a toothpaste commercial. Sharon says, “I thought you could have put more sassiness in it. You still have a long way to go with the confidence.” Then she says something to her about taking her clothes off. Huh? Hoff gives her a big pep talk before sending her on her way. “I think you’ll be coming back next week.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k46UVXM5kyDRk2LhNf)

Extreme Dance FX - They’re doing something in clogging that’s never been done before! I can’t wait. Zzz. The kids clog away. And actually, they’re pretty good–very polished and precise. What’s the part that’s never been done before? I must have missed that part. Piers singles out the leader of the group, “You’ve got more hunger in you than I’ve seen in any other contestant. And the others are coming with you.” Sharon says, “I think you are a sexier version of Riverdance…you’re going all the way to Vegas.” Hoff compliments them, but says, “I want to hear your shoes hit the floor…if you come back bring an attitude.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k2arA5iKoxYpHvLhL2)

Terry Fator, last year’s winner, is the Giant Star who’s back to make an announcement. I knew it was him! He’s got a five year contract in Vegas. There’s going to be some sort of show in Vegas on October 17. And, Terry will be back tomorrow to perform.

Paul Salos - A very old guy who impersonates Frank Sinatra. He’s a mission pilot back home. That interests me more than his Sinatra impersonation. He sings “Come Fly With Me”. I still don’t think he sounds that much like Sinatra. I’m baffled by the producers giving the pimp spot to celebrity impersonators of middling talent–like that crappy Elvis impersonator from last week. Piers says, “I’m going to level with you…I thought that was a weaker performance…it wasn’t the chemistry I’m used to.” Paul says he wasn’t hearing the music through the monitors. Sharon says, “I prefer you doing the Sinatra with just the grand piano.” Hoff says, “The chemistry wasn’t there, but the voice still is…you did a great job.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k2Okds8rHeudy8LhOF)

rickey

September 11th, 2008, 02:45 AM

Hey Alan!

I'll visit here more often to see your updates. LOL. Pleasantly surprised you are using the forum! Yay!

AlanDale

September 11th, 2008, 08:19 AM

Hey Alan!

I'll visit here more often to see your updates. LOL. Pleasantly surprised you are using the forum! Yay!
Thanks,

Just trying to get some conversation going about America's Got Talent.

Stop by anytime...!!! :)

AlanDale

September 11th, 2008, 08:23 AM

America’s Got Talent - EP 14 - LA / Videos
Published September 10th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-14-10-acts-compete-for-the-top-10.htm#more-5595)

We won’t find out who made the Top 10 until tomorrows special elimination episode. So tonight, we’re treated to tons and tons of lovely filler.

Last year’s winner, Terry Fator comes back to perform with his puppets. He’s a ventriloquist, but I have to say he’s good. And very clever. He’s opening at the Mirage next week. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k34mbJbCqGA6YGLlZn)

SickStep - They teach dance by day, dance Hip Hop by night. Eh. The tricks are kinda lame. If they want to advance or play Las Vegas, they have to pull out the stops. Piers doesn’t think they are improving with each performance. He didn’t think they were tight enough. Sharon says, “Great energy, I love your choreography, but I want to see more gymnastics.” Hoff says, “I know you guys are going to be voted back…you brought more attitude…but you’ve got to make it even tighter.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k8mAESsZ0JObMCLm0M)

Donald Braswell - This is the singer with the cut vocal cords who was given a second chance when one of the acts had to withdraw from the Top 40. He’s advanced to the Top 20. Will he advance even further? Oh he’s singing “Music of the Night” *waves* Hi David Cook fans dropping in to this thread for the first time! Very nice. I dare say I like him better than judges favorite, Neal E. Boyd. Piers says, “I’m beginning to hate the sight of you…everytime you come back I’m reminded that we rejected you from the Top 40…my God were were wrong about you…you are the Rocky Balboa of our show…you could win the title.” Sharon, “Great song choice…I would like to have you sing something uptempo…” Hoff says, “That is a hard song, and you take my breath away…you’ve got a major career.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k1WPYsGaPpkxafLm34)

Joseph Hall - I wonder if the crappy Elvis impersonator is going to step it up this week? Ohh. He’s doing the old, fat Elvis. Except Joseph is neither old nor fat. His leg is jiggling like he’s got some nervous tick. This is really bad. He sounds like Elvis a little bit, but he’s completely lacking the energy and charm of the king. He’s really tentative and awkward on stage. Seriously, how did this guy get through in the first place? Piers says, “Elvis is back in the building. That was the performance I say in your audition.” Huh? Sharon says, “You are packing it tonight” Ok, I’m not the only one that noticed that. She adds, “The show needs more of you darling.” Hoff says, “You sounded so much like Elvis, I thought I was listening to a track.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k5m79rGsmLkG5HLm4t)

The Taubl Family - I thought they barely held it together last week, but this performance is kind of a hot mess. They’re back to doing more traditional fare–a treacly song called “Do You Believe In Miracles.” The girls start off with solos, and then the whole family joins in. Their harmonies always sound off to me. Piers thought the beginning was boring, but it came together in the end. Sharon disagrees, “The song was beautiful…love you.” Hoff says, “It was a bit squirrely in the beginning…you’re powerful as a family.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/kw9tux6R6CMMfzLm6f)

Sarah Lenore - She’s the other blond singer. She’s a big belter, but she’s chosen to sing a softer song tonight. Well, that’s what she says. I don’t really consider “Bleeding Love” a softer song. It serves up ample opportunities for belting. Or shouting. Although, she is holding back, rather than shouting her way through it. She’s doing all those little yippy throat sounds that Leona Lewis does. It’s almost too restrained. She doesn’t do much with this. Piers calls it a brave song choice. He says, “You sang it well, but not brilliantly.” He thinks she should stick to country music. Sharon says, “Huge song, you tried to make it your own, but you didn’t…I just don’t think we’ve seen the best of you.” Hoff says, “We’ve got to vote you back, that was the wrong song…go back to those roots.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k1LMWCbSS16vLnLm81)

Nuttin But Stringz - Hip Hop violinists, baby. These guys are pretty fierce. They are virtuoso violin players and they incorporate their classical training into the Hip Hop world in an extremely clever way. Piers says, “It’s emotional and passionate…you bring two worlds together…you deserve to win.” Sharon, “You tailored your show for a much younger audience…you get away with it…you have to come back next week.” Hoff says, “Four words, Nuttin but the finals.” Oh that Hoff, he’s so clever! Gah. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/kVzydeGb4aEDSJLmbi)

Kaitlyn Maher - She’s only 4 years old, and she’s already addicted to fame! Eep. She likes that the judges like her. What’s going to happen when they reject her? Will she understand? Ugh. A 4 year old does not belong in a competition like this. She warbles another Disney song, “Beauty And The Beast”. They seem to be her specialty. It’s amazing that she remembers all the words and her timing is so good. All I can think is that her parental units spend many many hours rehearsing her. And that just seems so wrong. Oh look, she’s incorporated arm movements like Sharon asked her to last week. She’s such a cute little girl, but this whole deal just doesn’t smell right to me. “I had fun and I practiced hard,” says Kaitlyn. Bleah. It looks like the producers have decided it’s time for her to go. Hm. Piers says, “I think you’ve done brilliantly, you are our little princess…I don’t think you’re quite there yet…but I think you’re terrific.” Thank You! She parrots uncomprehendingly. Sharon compliments Kaitlyn on taking her direction. Then she asks Kaitlyn to tell her daughter Kelly (who must be having a breakdown, or something) to cheer up. “Cheer up Kelly!” says Kaitlyn. Hoff says, “It’s not important that you make it to the Top 10…what’s important is that you brought this country together…you make people smile…” Do you think she understood a word of that? The poor thing looks really confused. She’s only 4. I hope her parents prepare her properly for the eventual let down. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k3NfOSHiJQ7n6xLmca)

The Tapping Dads - Well, these guys pretty much suck. They need to go this week. I don’t care about how dancing brings them closer to their daughters. Take them to a movie or an amusement park. That’s what my Dad did, and we were plenty close enough. Mkay? Just get off my Tee Vee screen. Piers has a history of loathing this act. But, this week he says, “Something was holding me back [from buzzing]…there is something about your determination and spirit that’s beginning to get to me.” Sharon says, “I think your standard of dancing is getting massively better…I can see you in Vegas.” Hoff says, “I’m so glad I didn’t buzz you off…Fred Astair is rolling over in his grave, because you guys are getting better.” What?
And, why does Hoff feel the need to scream at me? - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k7aiMUKsCNc57hLmdb)

Eli Mattson - Oh wow, is he singing what I think he’s singing? Yes! He’s performing “If I Ain’t Got You”. Interesting and risky move to sing a tune associated so strongly with a female singer. He definitely makes it his own, although I have to say, it’s not one of my favorite performances. But still, it’s more than enough to move him into the Top 10, I think. Piers says, “You can sing any song, and you would do it your way.” Then he tells him that he’d buy his album right now. Sharon says, “Watch your intonation when you sing in your local register…I look forward to seeing you next week.” Hoff agrees with Sharon about the lower register, but says, “You sing with so much emotion…you really are the piano man.” Yeah, I have to say I agree with Sharon and Hoff about his lower register. But, I still love him. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k4esx14hcG1Q63Lm9a)

Jerry Springer announces that October 17 is the finale…

Jonathan Burkin - Baton twirler Jonathon Burkin twirls to Elton John’s version of “Pinball Wizard”. He’s added more acrobatics to the act, and I swear he’s throwing those batons higher. And he makes it look so easy. He really is fabulous! He better make the Top 10. Piers says, “I was absolutely sure you were going to drop one tonight” OMG Piers thinks that crappy Elvis impersonator is tough competition for the awesomely awesome Jonathan Burkin? Hell to the no. Sharon says, “Well done, I hope to see you next week.” Hoff says, “You did it again…you’ll be voted back man, you are too good.” Indeed, he is. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/kYG3tac107auAiLma9)

AlanDale

September 12th, 2008, 07:59 AM

America’s Got Talent - EP 15 - Results / Videos
Published September 11th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/burkin_elim1.jpg
Jonathan Burkin eliminated!

No time is wasted. We get right to the eliminations, from Tuesday night’s show:

* The Wright Kids and the Zooperstars step forward. Bye bye Zooperstars! The Wright Kids advance to the Top 10. Everyone but the duck is out of costume. Some good looking young guys there! Damn!
* Neal E. Boyd and Queen Emily step forward. I bet they both make it…and they do. Neal E. Boyd and Queen Emily BOTH advance to the Top 10.
* The James Gang and Extreme Dance FX step forward. BOTH ARE ELIMINATED.
* The Cadence and Paul Salos step forward. Paul Salos advances to the Top 10.
* Daniel Jens and Jessica Price step forward. They came in 5th and 6th. The judges get to choose. Bet they choose Jessica. Hoff starts. He babbles on and on about how hard it is, then finally chooses Jessica. Sharon doesn’t think either of them are ready, so she “goes with her heart” and chooses Daniel. Piers chooses Jessica. Well, it doesn’t matter, because neither of them are very good. Jessica Price advances to the Top 10.

Hm. As far as America’s vote is concerned, my guess would have been Extreme Dance FX over Jessica Price. It looks like, so far, America isn’t favoring the big groups.

* SickStep and Kaitlyn Mayer step forward. Kaitlyn Mayer advances to the Top 10.
* Donald Braswell and The Tapping Dads step forward. Donald Braswell advances to the Top 10.
* Taubl Family and Nuttin But Stringz step forward. Nuttin But Stringz advance to the Top 10.
* Sarah Lenore and Eli Mattson step forward. Eli Mattson advances to the Top 10.
* Joseph Hall and Jonathan Burkin step forward. They are the 5th and 6th act. The judges choose. Piers chooses Joseph. Sharon has a Paula moment. First she says she chooses Jonathan…no…Joseph…but wait, who is who? She finally says, “I choose baton boy.” That’s some seriously effed up stuff, right there. The Hoff better choose Jonathan. Crap. Hoff chooses that lame Elvis impersonator, Joseph Hall, who advances to the Top 10. Jonathan Burkin is eliminated!

The Top 10

* The Wright Kids
* Neal E. Boyd
* Queen Emily
* Paul Salos
* Jessica Price
* Kaitlyn Mayer
* Donald Braswell
* Eli Mattson
* Joseph Hall
* Nuttin But Stringz

Look at that. All singers. Kind of. Neither Joseph Hall nor Paul Salos, are top notch impersonators. Joseph Hall is particularly awful. And little Kaitlyn is getting by on the kittens and puppies factor, as are the Wright Kids to a certain extent. The rest of the bunch are fair to great singers. The best are Eli Mattson and Donald Braswell, in my humble opinion. Oh yeah, Nuttin But Stringz don’t sing, they play instruments, which could help them stand out from the bunch. That, and the judges seem to really like them.

See the Zooperstars out of their costumes! - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k6TAjilhOp7P9jLqhq)

Sharon (Paula Abdul) Osbourne has no idea who she’s talking to. Jonathan Burkin is eliminated. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k3LsWiMQ8aeupPLqgp)

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-ep-15-the-top-10-results-video.htm)

AlanDale

September 16th, 2008, 07:25 PM

BREAKING NEWS
[09.15.08 - 02:01 PM]
POP SUPERSTAR NATASHA BEDINGFIELD TO PERFORM ON AMERICA'S #1 SHOW, 'AMERICA'S GOT TALENT', THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
Released by NBC

Top Ten Finalists Perform Live for America's Votes on Wednesday, September 17

BURBANK, Calif. - September 15, 2008 -Grammy-nominated singing sensation Natasha Bedingfield will perform her latest hit single "Angel" on NBC's hit series "America's Got Talent" results show Thursday, September 18 (8-8:30 p.m. ET). The Top 10 acts will perform LIVE for America's votes on Wednesday, September 17 (8-10 p.m. ET).

Natasha Bedingfield has become one of the biggest stars to come out of the UK. Last year, Bedingfield took the U.S. by storm with the first British chart topping hit by a female in almost twenty years. Her song, "Uwritten" proved to be the most played song on mainstream American radio in 2006. Grammy nominated for her #1 hit "Unwritten", and now celebrating the success of her sophomore album, Pocketful Of Sunshine, this incredible talent is fresh off her first American tour, and about to head out on her next.

Bedingfield will be backed by a full choir during her spectacular performance.

The Top 10 acts performing live on Wednesday's episode are:

Nuttin' But Stringz, Jamaica Queens, New York (musicians) Kaitlyn Maher, Ashburn, Virginia (four-year-old singer) Neal E. Boyd, Silkeston, Missouri (opera singer) Eli Mattson, Door County, Wisconsin (singer/musician) Joseph Hall, Lincoln, Nebraska (Elvis impersonator) Paul Salos, Garland, Texas (Frank Sinatra impersonator) Jessica Price, Freeport, Michigan (singer/musician) Queen Emily, Stockton, California (singer) Donald Braswell, San Antonio, Texas (singer) The Wright Kids, Rocky Mount, Virginia (family band).

"America's Got Talent" is produced by FremantleMedia North America and Simon Cowell's SYCO Television. Cowell, Cecile Frot-Coutaz ("American Idol"), Jason Raff, James Sunderland and Georgie Hurford-Jones are executive producers.

Source: Futon Critic (http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news.aspx?id=20080915nbc02)

AlanDale

September 18th, 2008, 08:42 AM

America’s Got Talent - The Top 10 - Videos
Published September 17th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/EliMattson.jpg
............Eli Mattson

Five acts will move to the next round.

Paul Salos - Frank Sinatra impersonator. He’s singing “New York, New York” and dedicating it to his wife. Alrighty, he just got buzzed by Piers. And now he’s blowing the lyrics. This is like a joke audition, except YIKES it’s the Top 10. The audience claps wildly. Piers is giving him the big blow off. Piers has concluded that he’s not a million dollar act. No stuff, sherlock. He’s just figuring that out now? Sharon says, “I thought you were just fabulous.” “You nailed it,” says Hoff, who thinks he’ll make it to the Top 5. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k48r4MTztcNtldLRk5)

Kaitlyn Maher - 4 year old singer who should be at home - OK, this week has to be the end of the line for little Kaitlyn. I hope her parents have been preparing her for her impending elimination. She’s singing “I’ll be There” by Michael Jackson. Cute as hell, she remembers the words, but she really can’t sing. So I wonder how Piers is going handle playing the heavy this week? At least he didn’t buzz her. Piers compliments her on remembering all the words but then adds that it wouldn’t be fair to put her on the Las Vegas stage. It wasn’t fair to put her on the show in the first place, so why stop now? Sharon tells her she looks divine in red and that she loved her song choice. Hoff tells her that she made him happy, and that because she’s only 4, she could come back for the next 70 years. Kaitlyn stands there holding up her fingers during the numbers, and then one of the buzzers go off by accident. So weird. The judges remarks are designed, as usual, for the voting audience. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k6426c7eL9UNL1LRlN)

Donald Braswell - Donald tells the story of his cut vocal cords in 1995, and says that now that he’s got his voice back, he wants to take it all the way. He sings some Josh Grobany deal. Piers says the audience is behind him, but he’s not sure he’s as good as some of the others. In other words, the audience likes you, but TPTB don’t want you to win. Sharon says, “You look sexy in those trousers, what a big boy you are.” Inappropriate! Sharon tells him that he’s lovely singing the ballads. Ha. Donald did NOT take her advice from last week to sing an uptempo song. Hoff says, “I’d buy your album.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k2NWoFinYtYBSBLRoD)

Jessica Price - Singer - Waa waa waa. The whining is killing me. She got a respite from a dreary factory job when she made the AGT Top 10. She sings “Arms Of An Angel” by Sarah Mclachlan. The singing is flat, a little tentative. Not much star power here. But she’s got a hellava backstory! She dedicates the song to her mother who had to cope after her daddy abandoned her. Big time Daddy issues ahead! Piers says that he felt there was something missing in her prior performances, but that tonight, he finally got the emotion. Whoa, I wasn’t expecting that. Sharon says that Sarah Mclachlan would love the song, and that it was the perfect song for her. Hoff says, “You took all that pain and all that heartache and channeled it…you sang that song as good as anybody, you could win this competition.” Oh look, there’s her mom crying in the audience. Despite the mediocrity, she’s being pimped into the Top 5 for sure. I have to keep reminding myself…it’s ALL about the backstory… - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k32GkKNHT7IHaMLRrJ)

Joseph Hall - Crappy Elvis Impersonator - “A Little Less Conversation” The Remix! The Remix? OY! Ohh, he’s all dressed up like fat Elvis in the jumpsuit. Except, Elvis sang this famously during his 68 comeback special. Black leather, baby. His lower register is killing him. He’s mumbling and slurring all the words. Maybe he’s impersonating Drunk Elvis.This song is deceptively difficult to sing, and he’s turning it into a trainwreck. This is just sooo bad. Like, almost hilariously bad, but not quite. Piers says, “Judging you purely on your singing, that was terrible.” He then pulls out the patented Simon Cowell (I wonder if he got permission to use it?) drunk at a karaoke bar analogy, but then adds that there’s something about him that’s terribly entertaining. Sharon says, “I honestly can’t comment because everyone was screaming.” Nice cop out, Sharon. “You’re definitely getting more confident with your singing.” Hoff says, “You sounded terrific, you absolutely nailed it…you could be in the finals.” That performance was like a terrible AI joke audition. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k5zIf6JqUcJwarLRsY)

Neal E. Boyd - Opera Singer - He’s dedicating his performance to a high school teacher, who encouraged him to sing. And when he did, all the kids stopped teasing him. EEP he’s going to give Eric Carmen’s “All By Myself” the Opera treatment. This is a terrible arrangement. It’s all schizophrenic…it sounds like a watered down pop song, until he hits the 2nd chorus where he goes all opera on its butt. The transition is jarring. Really something is off here. He’s been better in the past. Piers says he took a song that’s sung by women–Uh no, Eric Carmen had a big hit with it in the 70’s–and that it was a big risk that didn’t pay off. Sharon says she was worried, but then got goosebumps when he sang the big notes. Hoff says, “At the beginning, I was saying ‘Oh no, Oh no’, until you hit the chorus.” I was saying OH NO OH NO through the whole song. Awful. Hoff ends his critique by telling Neal that he’s the front runner. Sigh. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k6bqycfJ8tqvpTLRuG)

The Wright Kids - More singing children - The Kids also delve into the pedo file, and pick “ABC” by the Jackson 5 to perform. Their hero is someone named Sharon who taught them all about music. Here’s the deal. These kids aren’t great singers. While the girl is pretty useless, it’s the boys who keep the act in the game. What they lack in singing ability, they make up for in charm. The little one behind the huge bass is especially adorable. Wow. This is grade school assembly bad. Honestly, I’ve heard much much BETTER at grade school assemblies. As the song ends, an off screen cannon inexplicably shoots confetti into the air. Piers says, “Amazing for your age what you do…it’s going to be very tough to get into the Top 5, the competition is ferocious.” Sharon says, “You did make it your own, it was very well done.” Hoff says, “Last week was a little bit better….look how far you got…you have a long fantastic career ahead of you.” Problem with the kids is, they advance on the cuteness factor, and the fact that the judges can’t call them out on their suckitutde without looking toolish. The entire concept of children competing with adults is all wrong to begin with. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k2sZHZcYt968LkLRvG)

Queen Emily - Belter - Her hero is her grandma. SOB!!! She’s going to sing her favorite song “And I Am Telling You” by Jennifer Holiday. She’s doing it for her grandma! OMG. Let the scenery chewing begin. Except, this is actually pretty good. She doesn’t bring anything new to the song, but she does navigate those important, crowd-pleasing big notes very well. Piers tells her that she ripped the stage apart, and that she’s giving Neal Boyd a run for his money. Setting up a rivalry? Sharon says, “You have a sensational voice and stage presence, I can see you entertaining an audience in Vegas.” Hoff says, “You hit it out of the park.” Then he proceeds with many lame sports analogies. Shut up Hoff. Queen Emily should be a shoe-in to the Top 5. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k2Ady07PxqWxOrLRx3)

Nuttin But Stringz - Violin Hip Hop - Dedicated to mama who bought them their first violin. Yippee! It’s the acrobatics of pimpage! On AI, favored contestants get special lighting, on AGT they get a whole circus, with Cirque du Soliel girls dropping down from the top of the stage. That wasn’t quite as compelling as past performances, but still pretty good. Oh, it’s a song they composed themselves. Piers reminds them that they took a big risk, that the singers have an advantage, but their act is still his favorite. Sharon says, “It’s sensational, it’s a show stopper.” Hm. These guys went to Juliard. Not previously part of their sob story. Hoff calls them Led Zepplin on violins and then says, “We’ll see you in the finals.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/kMBm2KjIYUqNQzLRy6)

Eli Mattson - Singer - After admitting that he could have sung Alicia Keys a little better last week, he says his Hero is Elton John. Tonight he’s singing Elton’s “Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word”. After last week’s off performance, Eli is back in his comfort zone, and he’s fabulous. Eli’s gorgeous, warm baritone is both intimate and emotional. The judges are pleased. Piers says, “Last week you held back a bit…the piano playing was spectacular…” Sharon says, “Elton IS watching tonight and I know he won’t be disappointed…it was just fantastic.” Piers reminds people that they have to vote for the talent, not the sympathy vote...please. This show is all about sob stories. Hoff says, “You made that song your own…congratulations.” The judges are pimping him to high heaven tonight. And he’s finally got the pimp spot tonight, he’ll have no problem making it into the finals. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k74VjIN4koEleZLRzy)

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-the-top-10-performance-video.htm)

AlanDale

September 18th, 2008, 01:24 PM

Piers Morgan Sounds Off on the Top 10 and Why Sarah Palin Should Be a Talent Judge
September 17, 2008
Source: People.com (http://tvwatch.people.com/2008/09/17/pier-morgan-sounds-off-on-the-top-10-and-why-sarah-palin-shoud-be-a-talent-judge/)

After several rounds of auditions and a break for the Olympics, America’s Got Talent (Wednesday, 8 p.m. ET on NBC) is finally heading to the Top 10 acts this week. The talent ranges from opera singer Donald Braswell to Elvis impersonator Joseph Hall. Judge Piers Morgan recently spoke to PEOPLE.com about the remaining talent, his rivalry with Simon Cowell and why Sarah Palin is his choice for Talent judge. –Emmet Sullivan

What do you think of the Top 10 acts?
The talent level is much higher than last year. I think a lot of this is because of last year’s winner Terry Fator. When you have a winner of the show who is now a hundred million dollar act in Vegas, I think word gets out that this is a show that can change your life forever.

Anyone in particular stick out?
Nuttin’ But Stringz, the two guys on the violin, are utterly unique. I’ve never seen any act that brings classical music to the sort of hip-hop street sound in the way that they do it. [Four-year-old Kaitlyn Maher] is an incredible story. Every time I think I’ve seen the last of Kaitlyn, she comes out and her little bottom lip trembles, and she sings the songs perfectly. You have Neal Boyd, who’s an insurance salesman and an incredible singer. You have Queen Emily, who again, fantastic story, fantastic voice. I think it’s going to be incredibly competitive this year.

A lot of people compare your show to American Idol. What do you think?
People can say it’s a watered down Idol, but we allow any age and any talent. And in the end, I don’t mind if a singer wins if they’re genuinely the best talent. Last year the show was won by [ventriloquist Terry Fator]. It just happens that this year the talent has been predominantly in the singing department, but I wouldn’t put it past Nuttin’ But Stringz to win. I think it’s a very open field.

Idol just signed a fourth judge. Who would be the best fourth addition for America’s Got Talent?
I’d love to have Simon [Cowell]. I do Britain’s Got Talent with Simon in Britain, and we do have a great relationship that’s incredibly competitive. If you get Barack Obama sitting there, that would be quite cool. I think Sarah Palin might be better. She’d be pretty tough.

So what’s it like to work with Simon?
Simon’s the only person I know who is more egotistical offscreen than on it. And that is saying something, because his ego’s the size of a planet on [the show]. He spends most of his time in front of mirrors, doing his hair and stuff. But he’s a lot of fun. He’s done terrible things to me in Britain, where I’ll walk out and the audience will all start chanting, ‘Who are you?’ at the top of their voices. Or they’ll just greet me in total silence because he’s told them to and stuff. He’s very naughty like that.

You’re about to go head-to-head with advertising executive Donny Deutsch in the Alfred Dunhill Debate on Friday. Any thoughts heading into the debate?
I think it’s going to be pretty lively and heated. Donny Deutsch thinks he’s the business king of New York, and obviously after I won Celebrity Apprentice, I’m pretty confident that I’m the business king of New York. I’m Trump’s Chosen One and I’m coming to get Donny Deutsch. I’m not coming all the way to New York to lose.

AlanDale

September 18th, 2008, 01:27 PM

America's Got Talent: Episode 315
September 18th 2008 12:01AM by Isabelle Carreau
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/QueenEmily.jpg
...........Queen Emily

"You got everyone in this room including a girl I'm dating." - The Hoff to Joseph Hall

Other performers "got everyone in this room" as The Hoff said because the Top 10 offered a good number of fantastic performances. It will be difficult for America to vote for the America's Got Talent winner next week because the competition is fierce. This week, the judges actually told at least three performers, in one way or another, that they were front runners but there can be only one winner. But first, they must get voted through to the Top 5.

Who will make the cut?

Based on the performances we were offered this week, I believe Neal E. Boyd, Queen Emily, Nuttin But Stringz and Eli Mattson will get a spot in the Top 5. As for that last spot, I'm on the fence. As you know, I'm not a fan of Donald Braswell, but I must admit that tonight he gave a very good performance and, if I closed my eyes to not see his exagerated facial expressions, I actually enjoyed myself. Plus, Donald has America behind him since voters put him in the Top 40. Jessica also gave a solid performance this week but if you look back at her other performances, I'm not sure she will make it... Paul is another performer that could get that final spot but I believe Donald has a bigger following.

Kaithlyn Maher gave a very poor performance tonight. (She) Her father listened to the judges comments and tried to have her move around the stage and do some gestures. We saw that she is not ready to combine both singing and moving around, which is critical to get further in the competition. She is young and has time to take courses and improve. And, as The Hoff said, she can come back for the next 70 years of AGT!

The Wright Kids made a bad song choice. They didn't show the needed energy and didn't connect enough with the crowd for such a song. They got further than I thought they would but this has to be the end of the road for them.

Joseph Hall may look and move like Elvis but he doesn't have the voice to support his act. Even if I think he shouldn't move on, I wouldn't be surprised to see him in the Top 5 since he got women screaming like high school girls!

I'm not even going to comment on my Top 4 because they were just WOW!

Source: TV Squad (http://www.tvsquad.com/2008/09/18/americas-got-talent-episode-315/)

AlanDale

September 18th, 2008, 09:58 PM

America’s Got Talent - Top 10 - Results / Videos
Published September 18th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/kaitlyn2_elim.jpg
..........Kaitlyn Maher

So…what exactly was so shocking about these eliminations? It went exactly as I predicted.

Top 5

* Nuttin But Stringz
* Queen Emily
* Neal E. Boyd
* Donald Braswell
* Eli Mattson

Next Wednesday is the finals.

Jerry Springer says Millions of people voted and promises “major shocks” OMG!

Nuttin But Stringz and the Wright Kids step forward. Bye kiddies! Nuttin But Stringz advances to the Top 5. I’m glad the kids aren’t crying. Oh Yay. The eliminated acts get goodbye videos. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k5Ax63JPdrFgPWLVLt)

Joseph Hall and Queen Emily step forward. Crappy Elvis must die! Whew. Queen Emily advances to the Top 5. Now, for a video recap of the best craptacular moments of crappy Elvis. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k4ZThVVZuAT8rsLVJj)

More shocking results coming up first! But first, a performance from Natasha Bedingfield performing her single, “Angel”. I don’t love her songs, but you would never mistake her for anyone else if you heard her on the radio. She’s got a very distinctive sound. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k6x8F7gUHe1NgKLVHV)

Back to the eliminations...

Kaitlyn Maher and Neal E. Boyd take center stage. Time for the little one to go home. Neal E. Boyd advances to the Top 5. Kaitlyn may or may not understand what’s going on, as her goodbye video plays. Well, she’s not crying, but she’s not smiling either. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k5zTVPN08d3ckMLVMy)

Paul Salos and Donald Braswell take center stage… Donald Braswell advances to the Top 5. Now for the “best” moments of Fake Frank. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k5sTWc799wyKLHLVM9)

Jessica Price and Eli Mattson take center stage. This better not be a shock. It’s not. Eli Mattson advances to the Top 5. YAY! Check out Jessica’s sister booing Eli. Classy! - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/kmQfQPkIeeXgoeLVNa)

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-the-top-10-results-video.htm)

AlanDale

September 19th, 2008, 11:17 AM

America's Got Talent: Episode 315B
September 19th 2008 7:00AM by Isabelle Carreau
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/agt-donald.jpg
........Donald Braswell

"I can promise you some major shocks." - Jerry

Shocks? What shocks? America's Got Talent's Top 5 is actually what the TV Squad readers and myself predicted after watching the Top 10 performances.

Who made the cut and what I thought of Natasha Bedingfield's performance coming up!

Here is your Top 5 America:

* Nuttin But Stringz
* Queen Emily
* Neal E. Boyd
* Donald Braswell
* Eli Mattson

As you can see nothing surprising. My Top 4 is there and Donald was my front runner out of the rest of the Top 10. I was surprised that Sharon was shocked when Kaitlyn and Neal were asked to step forward. Did Sharon really think Kaitlyn would make it another round or was she ordered to act surprise at that point to add some tragedy to the show?

Jerry told The Wright Kids and Kaitlyn Maher that they should come back next year. That got me to ponder about if there should be a rule that if you made it to the Top 20 you can't compete in future seasons. It's not fair to the others. You had your chance, you didn't make it, so give the chance to someone else. Will the judges really not let the returnees who made it really far go through at least to the Top 40 since they put them there the previous season? Do you think there should be such a rule?

Natasha Bedingfield's performance was really good but it was irrelevant to AGT. Couldn't Jerry at least chat with her for a minute to ask her how it is to be a performer so the contestants get a little bit out of her being there? How about a performance from Bianca Ryan? I've said it before and I'll say it again, it's like AGT forgot they had a first season. Having Bianca perform and chat about being in the Top 5 could have been beneficial to the contestants. Heck, having The Hoff perform would have been more relevant, even if painful to watch.

Source: TV Squad (http://www.tvsquad.com/2008/09/19/americas-got-talent-episode-315b/)

AlanDale

September 25th, 2008, 09:16 AM

America’s Got Talent - The Top 5 Finals - Videos
Published September 24th, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/eli_5a.jpg
............Eli Mattson

Next Wednesday is the finale, and I think it’s between Nuttin But Stringz and Eli Mattson for the win. Both acts are unique and have performed consistently well throughout the competition. Donald Braswell and Queen Emily are talented, but lack charisma and are a little past their prime. Neal E. Boyd has been inconsistent. His sob story has overshadowed his talent. At this point, I think talent is going to take the contest.

Live from Los Angeles, it’s America’s Got Talent: The Finals!

There’s a tiny montage of all the contestants speaking about their “journey”. Looks like we’re going to cut right to the chase.

Nuttin But Stringz - They claim they’re going to perform the greatest song they’ve ever composed. “We’re going to fight to win this,” they say. There’s more Cirque du Soliel like acrobatics. This week’s it’s guys floating down to the stage with umbrellas. There’s fake rain in the background. Really this sounds a lot like the song they did last week. However, there’s no denying these guys are virtuosos on the violin. “What a start,” says Piers and then “I hope the president is still watching…that was incredible.” Piers is really pulling for these guys. “I’m looking at the winners of AGT,” he says. Sharon says, “It’s just incredible…everything that Piers says and I’ll double it.” “Nothing but Vegas!” screams Hoff. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k77E2RQkKRZGyeMnsL)

Donald Braswell - Donald says he’s decided to go back and sing “You Raise Me Up”. He says it tells the story of his life. I’m not sure it’s wise to sing a retread at this point in the competition. Of course, the audition episode that featured this performance seems like eons ago. Donald gives it all he’s got. He is a very good singer, but I wonder if he’s got enough charisma to compete with some of the more dynamic performers in this bunch. Sharon says, “I think you belong in musical theater.” She doesn’t think he’s got the personality to match his voice. Hoff says, “I disagree…you took me to church.” Why must Hoff scream like a mental patient? “Piers says, “I thought the last note was a little over excited…having said that, you’ve done yourself proud.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k5QdESS7vvwtfjMnuf)

Neal E. Boyd - Let’s see if we can get through a performance without crying. Nope, we can’t. He BUGS! Neal sings in Italian “Nessun Dorma". Neal does a much better job this week. Doing an actual Opera song was a wise move–it reminds the audience that he can actually sing after last week’s trainwreck. Hoff says, “I am honored to be on this journey with you…you got the heart…the humility…blah blah blah.” Whatever, Hoff. Neal starts crying again. Oh geez. Piers says, “It puts me in a strange and uncomfortable position…I totally and completely agree with David.” Sharon says it was the most beautiful version of that song she’s ever heard. Really? Hyperbole much? - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k1qmHTmEikO13OMnvu)

Eli Mattson - He’s performing “Against All Odds” by Phil Collins. He says the song is meaningful, because the last 10 years have been really tough. Ohh! No hat! New haircut! Me likey! Seriously, he had hair under that hat? I generally hate the myriad covers I’ve been forced to listen to all these years on Idol. But, holy cow! I really really like Eli’s version. It’s not overwrought. Nearly all the folks who attempt to sing this pummel it out of existence. This version is beautiful, understated and heartfelt. Good job Eli! Piers says, “You can take all these classic songs, and give them your own interpretation. Your odds to win have just shortened dramatically.” Sharon says, “You have got a great voice, you are a great musician…I think you would be an amazing winner to represent this show.” Hoff called him the dark horse in the pre-interview and says, “…you are real.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/kgthjOFYiOmExCMnwW)

Queen Emily - She’s crying too. Bah. I hate these sob stories. I am not moved! “This is my destiny” declares Queen. She sings “One Moment In Time”. Queen gives it all she’s got. There’s nothing terribly unique or earth shattering about her performance. She’s more church than Vegas. Plus, she’s got her age working against her. Piers says, “You look like a queen tonight…your best performance…I think you’re going to struggle to win against Nuttin But Stringz” Sharon says, “You are a Diva…you just own that stage…you nailed it,, fantastic.” And then, “You look more like a princess to me…tonight was fantastic…whether you win or not, you’re going to have an amazing career.” I don’t think she stands a chance. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k5d4RkmOYO2bcXMnxY)

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-the-top-5-compete-video.htm)

AlanDale

September 25th, 2008, 01:01 PM

America's Got Talent Launching First Live Stage Spectacular for One Night Only on Friday, October 17th MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas
September 24, 2008 - 4:13:14 PM
Source: RealityTVWebsite.com (http://realitytvwebsite.com/RealityTVNews/America-s-Got-Talent-Launching-First-Live-Stage-Spectacular-for-One-Night-Only-on-Friday-October-17th-MGM-Grand-Garden-Arena-in-Las-Vegas.html)

Headlined by the Soon-to-Be-Crowned Season 3 Champion & Featuring Performances from All of the TV Show's Top 5 Finalists

Hosted by Jerry Springer with a Special Guest Performance from Season 2 Winner Terry Fator & More

Tickets Are On Sale Now!

America's Got Talent, the #1 rated show on television, today announced plans to bring a spectacular live stage version of the international phenomenon to Las Vegas for one night only. On Friday, October 17th, America's Got Talent Live will debut at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, featuring the dynamic top five competitors from season three of the show; the program's winner, crowned at the show's October 1st finale, is set to headline. This exciting night of entertainment, promoted by AEG Live, will feature host Jerry Springer and a special guest performance from Terry Fator, the multi-talented winner of season two, as well as several more of the show's hottest stars, in addition to the Top 5 finalists, to be announced shortly.

Tickets to America's Got Talent Live are on-sale now and can be purchased via Ticketmaster - www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com at the MGM Grand Garden Arena box office and at all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations.

The show's top five performers, set to take the stage in Las Vegas, include Neal E. Boyd, an opera singer from Silkeston, MO; Nuttin But Stringz, a Hip-Hop violin duo comprised of brothers Damien and Tourie Escobar from Jamaica Queens, NY; Queen Emily, a soul singer from Stockton, CA; Donald Braswell, a singer from San Antonio, TX; and Eli Mattson, a 26-year-old pianist-singer from Chicago, IL. These acts will also perform during America's Got Talent's next broadcast, which will air on Wednesday, September 24 at 8PM ET/PT on NBC.

"America's Got Talent has discovered some of the most dynamic and diverse entertainers in the world," said Debra Rathwell, Vice President of AEG Live. "It's with great excitement that we bring fans the explosive live stage debut of the show in the entertainment capital of the world."

America's Got Talent, NBC's hit summer series from American Idol producers FremantleMedia North America and Simon Cowell's SYCO Television, returned this summer with the hottest performers from across the country competing in the blockbuster reality show's third season. Bringing the variety show format back to the forefront of American culture each week, the show features a colorful array of hopeful future stars -- singers, dancers, comedic performers and unique acts of all ages. While each contestant has the chance to strut and perform in front of a panel of celebrity judges including David Hasselhoff, Sharon Osbourne and Piers Morgan, the eventual winner is chosen by the television viewing audience. Since launching in 2006, America's Got Talent has been sold to over 100 countries, with localized versions of the hit format being produced in 24 countries around the world.

AEG Live, the live-entertainment division of Los Angeles-based AEG, is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performance, touring for a variety of programming and multi-media production. One of the largest concert promotion and touring companies in the world, AEG Live is comprised of special event, broadcast and exhibition divisions and operates and owns numerous state of the art venues nationwide. Current AEG Live tours and productions include Bette Midler The Showgirl Must Go On and Cher at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas; and Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs, an international tour of the artifacts of King Tut. Recent and current promoted concert tours include Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Prince, Bon Jovi, Hannah Montana, Spice Girls, Kenny Chesney, Paul McCartney and American Idols Live. AEG Live also co-produces the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Goldenvoice, the company's southern California-based regional promotion division, created and operates the award winning annual Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival. For more information go to www.aeglive.com

The MGM Grand Garden Arena is home to concerts, championship boxing and premier sporting and special events. The Arena offers comfortable seating for as many as 16,800 with excellent sightlines and state-of-the-art acoustics, lighting and sound. Prominent events to date have included world championship fights between Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson as well as Oscar De La Hoya vs. Floyd Mayweather and George Foreman vs. Michael Moorer; and concerts by The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Bette Midler, Gloria Estefan, Janet Jackson, Phil Collins, Billy Joel, Backstreet Boys, ˜N Sync, Sting, Jimmy Buffett and the Barbra Streisand Millennium Concert. The MGM Grand Garden Arena also is home to the annual Academy of Country Music Awards (ACMA) and U.S. Open of Motocross.

AlanDale

September 26th, 2008, 11:22 AM

'America's Got Talent' recap: Who's going to win it all?
September 25, 2008, 08:25 AM | by Mike Bruno
Source: Popwatch.EW.com (http://popwatch.ew.com/popwatch/2008/09/americas-got--7.html)

So, your season-long America's Got Talent recapper Jaya Saxena has left us -- left the country, in fact. I don't think it's because of this show -- or the notion that the people competing in it have more talent than any other undiscovered entertainer in our proud nation (shudder) -- but I can't say for sure. In any case, they asked me if I wanted to step into Jaya's shoes for the final couple of weeks, and I said what the hell. Full disclosure: I was not a faithful America's Got Talent viewer this season. I do, however, like singing, dancing, and violin rock-outs as much as the next person. Plus, this is the show with Hasselhoff, and I am flesh and blood after all -- love the Hoff. Let's do this.

Turns out I jumped into this puppy during, as the throaty announcer put it, "America's Got Talent... THE FINALS" -- very exciting. Following a speech on the financial crisis by President Bush that clipped 15 minutes off tonight's show (I guess we know where NBC's priorities are), Nuttin But Stringz got the party started by jamming what they described as "one of the greatest songs we ever composed." It kind of sounded like a string version of Ozzy's "Crazy Train" with a drum machine beat, but they were quite a spectacle, with that rain motif they borrowed from Rihanna's "Umbrella" video and the Cirque du Soleil (http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/CirqueDuSoleil/en/default.htm) trapeze work in the background. There's no denying these kids are into what they're doing, and it was all about as Vegas as you could imagine. But it was also more pomp and circumstance than talented performance, wasn't it? I think Nuttin But Stringz spent almost as much time hyping the crowd ("Come on, make some noooooise!") as they did playing the violins. Take away the flash and it was like an act you'd see performed during a timeout at a basketball game that makes you think, "Wow, that's kinda cool" as you head off to the bathroom to relieve yourself. Nevertheless, Piers went gaga and pointed out that by virtue of not being singers, the Stringz were the most unique act in the competition. The Hoff summed up his whole evaluation by simply hollering "Nuttin! But! Vegas!" Hoff rules. - Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uRbSLDU6w4&eurl=http://popwatch.ew.com/popwatch/2008/09/americas-got--7.html)

Poor Donald Braswell was doomed simply based on the fact that his Finest Collection Of Love Songs vocal performance had to follow violin guys' 106 & Park block party. It didn't help that he had an orange tan and a mediocre voice that screamed cruise-ship singer. Sorry, Donald. No way in hell. - Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcFqT5DTZXM&eurl=http://popwatch.ew.com/popwatch/2008/09/americas-got--7.html)

Chubby opera dude Neal E. Boyd was pretty cool. He belted out those big, vibrato notes you think of when you hear the word "opera," evoking cheers from the audience and making the judges look like they might cry (or at least it that's how it was edited). I think opera dude is actually more talented than violin guys, just not nearly as entertaining. He also seems like a sweet guy, and when he teared up after the judges praised him, I thought maybe this kid has a shot at the title. But then I went back and watched the episode a second time and I saw that the show's opening included numerous past scenes of Boyd weeping and hugging and being all sensitive, so I'm guessing veteran Talent viewers are no longer giving him points for that. - Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-xpKow9zOY&eurl=http://popwatch.ew.com/popwatch/2008/09/americas-got--7.html)

Next we had Eli Mattson, who had me worried that his rendition of Phil Collins "Against All Odds" would be about as exciting as, well, an amateur singer doing a Phil Collins cover. Turns out there's something kind of intriguing about him, though, right? He has that skinny-white-boy-at-the-piano thing going on -- like a poor man's Chris Martin -- and his voice sounds a lot like Elton John. Piers pretty much nailed it when he said there's something distinctive about Mattson, even though, overall, I was kinda meh about the whole thing -- mostly because of the aforementioned Phil Collins factor. But my wife said Mattson was cute and that she liked him the best (while Sharon sounded like she wanted to jump the kid), so I'm thinking cutie piano man could pull this off. - Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkPkEATgq-g&eurl=http://popwatch.ew.com/popwatch/2008/09/americas-got--7.html)

Finally, we had Queen Emily, who I was really rooting for after her heartfelt speech about winning the show being her destiny and her sincere desire to pour every ounce of herself into this final performance. Sadly, she just simply doesn't have the goods. Mostly, she seemed like a decent singer trying too hard and playing out of her league. Maybe her raspy, soulful voice would've sounded better on an old Motown joint, rather than Whitney Houston's "One Moment In Time," but in the end I just don't think she has the juice to take this thing home. The judges seemed to agree with me, saying things like "whether you win or not." That's definitely not a phrase you wanna hear in the finals. - Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lS0OUi8z7r0&eurl=http://popwatch.ew.com/popwatch/2008/09/americas-got--7.html)

So there it is. I personally kind of dig Neal E. Boyd, but if I had to guess I'd say it's between Nuttin But Stringz and Eli Mattson. Pretty apples and oranges, those two acts, which means it could probably just come down to the demographic of the viewers watching -- do Talent viewers tend to dig Coldplay or are they more of Ludacris type of crowd? At any rate, I'm pretty confident next week's winner will be one of those two. Which means that Queen Emily will probably win by a landslide.

AlanDale

October 1st, 2008, 09:13 PM

http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/americas_talent-1.jpg

** Winner **

http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/AGT-6.jpg

Neal E. Boyd

AlanDale

October 12th, 2008, 08:44 AM

America’s Got Talent - The Finale! - Videos
Published October 1st, 2008 in American Idol and America's Got Talent
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/nealwins.jpg
............Neal E. Boyd wins!

Shocking boot? I’ll say! The online chatter leading up the the finale has been all about Eli Mattson and Nuttin But Stringz vying for the prize, but the judges favorite Nuttin But Stringz leaves the competition at 3 and it’s Neal E. Boyd for the win? What the heck? Did anybody out there vote for Neal? I have yet to meet a Neal E. Boyd fan…

I’m slowing putting up video this morning. I’ve got group numbers, Leona Lewis’s performance, and the eliminations.

* WINNER - Neal E. Boyd
* 2nd Place - Eli Mattson
* 3rd Place - Nuttin But Stringz
* 4th Place - Donald Braswell
* 5th Place - Queen Emily

Who will win America’s Got Talent? The Top 5, Nuttin But Stringz, Donald Braswell, Neal E. Boyd, Queen Emily and Eli Mattson performed for the last time last week. The winner will be chosen tonight.

Host Jerry Springer says it’s the closest vote they’ve ever had, before the Final 5 all take the stage. Oh geez, Neal E. Boyd already looks like he’s about to cry. Ditto Queen Emily.

Hoff thinks every single act can play Las Vegas. “Every one of you could win tonight!”

OMG. The Top 10 are performing a group song. There’s little 4-year old Kaitlyn looking like she hasn’t got a clue about what’s going on. There’s fake Elvis singing like a normal person. He still sucks. There’s Fake Frank Sinatra, and he’s not giving up the ghost. It’s the Chairman of the Board singing…Kelly Clarkson. I kid you not. The group is singing “A Moment Like This”, Kelly’s coronation song, and it’s pretty bizarre. What a mis-matched crew. I can’t wait to put up video. “Wasn’t that phenomenal!” says Jerry, “This is America!” If you say so Jerry!

A Moment Like This? - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k276sSgrTvFnU0MTYO)

There’s an extra special surprise guest tonight! Who could it be? It’s Leona Lewis. Wow, that’s a huge surprise, isn’t it? Not. She’s performing “Better in Time”, and it’s all about what happens after your love bleeds. Or something like that. She sings like a bird. - Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWbtMAbJii4&eurl=http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-the-finale.htm)

Jerry promises wild and wacky acts after the break. Oh goody.

After the break, Jerry announces the America's Got Talent Las Vegas show on October 17, featuring the Top 5.

Well wishes for the Top 5. Performers the finalists admire wishes them good luck. Il Divo tells Neal E. Boyd they’ve been watching all of his performances and that they especially like his performance of their song “Mama”. Ha. Simon told them to say that. Brian McKnight has been watching Queen Emily…yep, like Il Divo, he has nothing better to do than to be watching TV. Marc Cohen tells Eli Mattson that he saw his version of “Walking In Memphis” and he was really moved by it.” He adds, “When you get your big record deal, I want to write you a song. Eli looks very surprised. Andrew Lloyd Webber congratulates Donald Braswell and says he’d love to work with Donald. Wyclef Jean tells Nuttin But Stringz, “Y’all gonna take this thing away…let’s take it home, baby.” - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k4HQEPogmgql6pMU3X)

Next, It’s the America’s Got Talent All Stars, where we get to see the skeeriest auditioners all on one stage performing together. Oh boy. This is…something. “Incredible!” says Jerry. If you say so, Jerry! - Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jIqnK2adJJQ&eurl=http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-the-finale.htm)

Now it’s time to re-cap the season and, finally, some eliminations…

Leaving the competition in 5th place is...Queen Emily. Queen would like to thank America. “You’re the greatest!” She says. Queen Emily’s “highlights” run next. There’s lots of crying and belting, belting and crying.

Jerry immediately begins the next elimination. And leaving the competition in 4th place is…Donald Braswell. Jerry reminds Donald that the fans brought him back. “God bless all of you” says Donald. Donald’s highlights run, including Donald looking all busted up when he doesn’t make the Top 40 and then his Big! Triumphant! Return! “I love you!” he mouths as he leaves the stage… - Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HxStbokh7LY&eurl=http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-the-finale.htm)

No time to waste. Let’s get on with it. “One more is about to leave the competition,” says Jerry. Leaving the competition in third place is…Nuttin But Stringz. The crowd gasps. Piers looks pissed. The judges favorite is about to leave the building! The crowd begins to cheer. Do the boys have anything to say? “We taught America, that when you dream big, big dreams come true.” Aw, I bet he thought that was going to be his acceptance speech, right before the confetti rained down. “We made violins cool,” he says. Brother #2 isn’t quite so articulate. He babbles on about passion and heart, and some inexplicable stuff about being “epidemic…when you get it, you have it”. Uh. Ok! Their highlight video runs…and the guys look on, a little shell-shocked. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/kQDKlY5Kc4rTkoMU6w)

Neal E. Boyd and Eli Mattson are left…

Jerry reminds us that the winner walks away with 1 million dollars and will be heading the Oct 17 show in Las Vegas. Neal says that he didn’t think he’d make it this far. He’s surprised at the way people have responded to opera. And, he loves America. Neal isn’t crying. Yet. After saying that he hopes, “The whole shaking thing on stage” goes away, Eli says winning means he can take care of his family and do what he loves for the rest of his life. Then he gives a shout-out to Neal highlight video are first. Neal–OK, the crying has started. And it continues! Eli’s video next. He smiles as he watches his highlights. - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k5BhLeLe2V2gdyMU3s)

Jerry says it was the closest result ever–less than half of 1% between the two…

Neal E. Boyd wins. Eli Mattson is the runner up. That was disappointing. I was rooting for Eli. Damn. Placido Domingo congratulates Neal. “What has happened to my life!” says Neal. “Thank you America!” The show ends as Neal performs “Nessun Dorma”, the Top 10 take the stage and the confetti rains down… - Video (http://www.dailymotion.com/video/k48nZwWHKwEm3aMU2h)

Source: MJs BigBlog (http://mjsbigblog.com/americas-got-talent-the-finale.htm)

AlanDale

October 12th, 2008, 08:52 AM

"AGT" Aftermath: fan reactions against the winner
Posted October 4th 2008 3:03PM by Isabelle Carreau
http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t197/AlanDale_photo/AGT_photos/agtnealboyd.jpg
Source: TV Squad (http://www.tvsquad.com/2008/10/04/americas-got-talent-aftermath-fan-reactions-against-the-winner/)

If you've been reading my America's Got Talent (http://www.tvsquad.com/category/americas-got-talent/) reviews over the summer, you know I was not happy with last week's results (http://www.tvsquad.com/2008/10/01/americas-got-talent-episode-317-season-finale/). But since I'm a passive viewer (aka I do not vote), I had to accept America's choice as best new act in America. Since the finale aired, I've been reading comments TV Squad readers left on our site and what the Entertainment Weekly AGT reviewer and readers had to say about the winner (http://popwatch.ew.com/popwatch/2008/10/americas-got-ta.html). Reading those comments left me with one question: who voted for the winner anyway?

Based on the comments left on both sites, Eli Mattson or Nuttin But Stringz would have won, not crying opera singer Neal E. Boyd. A lot of commenters even say they will more than likely not watch season four because the season three results "suck." So who voted for Neal to win? Clearly, not the EW and TVS readers.

It's possible that little of Neal's supporters decided to comment on both sites and that mostly the unhappy viewers had to vent somewhere. But still, with so many people unhappy with the results, one has to wonder what happened. Some people think that the votes were fixed and that, since the producers have been shoving Neal down our throat since episode 1, people were paid to vote for Neal because AGT wanted their own version of Paul Potts. Personally, I don't think the votes were fixed. I think Neal was crowned the winner because people were touched by his heartbreaking story, his tears, his average-Joe looks, and his good voice. I also suspect that a lot of people didn't vote with the "Can this person really headline a show in Vegas?" or "Would I buy a ticket or an album from that person?" questions in the back of their mind. Personally, my answers would be "no" to both questions when thinking of Neal. Then again, it's personal taste.

I wouldn't be surprised to hear that a few people who were sure that NBS or Eli would win didn't actually vote for either them. It's not unheard of that people don't vote for the person they really like because they think other voters will.

This means that #2 wins instead of #1.