It’s Idol’s top 10 ... yet again
ROUNDUP. Not everyone finds enjoyment in the glorified karaoke competition that is “American Idol.” It’s true! Instead of pretty singing puppets butchering jukebox classics in front of millions of TV viewers, some people prefer their music makers to be all-encompassing artists, writing their own songs (doomed to be self-released and sold for a few bucks) to be performed in front of a handful of self-important hipsters. But wait! Suddenly it seems like “Idol” has changed its tune. Instead of the Mickey Mouse Club, this year’s Top 10 actually resembles the roster of a proper record label, featuring the rocker chick, the low-key guitar-playing dude and even the silky soul crooner with only one name. Here’s a guide to the new “Idol” wannabes.
Brooke White
Age 24
Sounds like A more poppy, G-rated Carly Simon
“Idol” material? White already released an album in 2005. But is the girl who’s never seen an R-rated move too sweet?
Carly Smithson
Age 24
Sounds like Christina Aguilera as rock star
“Idol” material? The Ireland-native had to leave season five due to visa problems. Is second time a charm?
Chikezie
Age 22
Sounds like A choir boy who got tangled in Bob Dylan’s harmonica holder
“Idol” material? If you don’t vote for him, the former TSA officer will take away your carry-on liquids.
David Archuleta
Age 17
Sounds like Barry Manilow
“Idol” material? The “Star Search” winner forgot the lyrics to Beatles songs, but was able to laugh it off, a career-saving skill.
David Cook
Age 25
Sounds like The long-lost (much) older Jonas Brother
“Idol” material? He’s using the success of inoffensive “rocker” Chris Daughtry as a template.
Jason Castro
Age 20
Sounds like A Texas-fried Jack Johnson
“Idol” material? Castro already proved he’s swoon-worthy, appearing on Cheyenne Kimball’s MTV series.
Kristy Lee Cook
Age 24
Sounds like A national anthem singer at a basketball game
“Idol” material? LeAnn Rimes’ manager once handled her career and she had a deal with Arista Nashville.
Michael Johns
Age 29
Sounds like The dude busking on your street corner
“Idol” material? He signed to Maverick Records with the band the Rising, but their album never got released.
Ramiele Malubay
Age 20
Sounds like A reject from Diddy’s “Making the Band”
“Idol” material? A bubbly personality can only take this adorable former sushi restaurant hostess so far.
Syesha Mercado
Age 21
Sounds like A Broadway belter
“Idol” material? She appeared on the canceled reality series “The One: Making a Music Star,” which tanked after two weeks.