American Idol 2009 - Iraheta & Desai

American Idol 2009 Analysis, 3/15/2009 - Day 3

Now that I am fully encapsulated in this year's American Idol, thanks in part to my lovely wife and lovely mother, here is my analysis of the Top-13 remaining contestants. Today's focus will be on Allison Iraheta and Anoop Desai.

Allison Iraheta - Los Angeles, CA

Who knew that Kelly Clarkson had enough free time to dress up as a sixteen year old and compete once again in American Idol. Each episode Allison Iraheta continues to draw striking similarities to the first America Idol winner. As Kelly did for the inaugural competition, Allison seems to have the right formula to be this years top dog. Allison has found success in this type of bout before. In 2006 Allison took home $50,000 and a recording contract from the Telemundo version of American Idol Quincanera. That recording contract did not last and I'm not so sure that her success in this years Idol will last either. Her voice is one of the better ones we have heard this year, yet it remains unpolished and fairly one dimensional. In the next few weeks we will find out what Allison is really made of as her choice in songs begins to dwindle. She's proven that she can handle Rock Power Ballads and heavy hearted pop songs very well, but we need to see how she fairs when the producers throw it back to the old school old school for 60's week or down on the farm for Country music week. She is young and inexperienced, so there is plenty of room to grow and learn. Allison has proved to be a judges favorite and if she ever does reach the point of being voted off, I'm sure that the judges will save her and give her another chance. The one thing that Allison needs to focus on is thinking before she opens her mouth. She is constantly fighting with the judges for air time and last week had a little slip of the tongue and made a sarcastic comment about people cutting themselves. One thing that could hold her down is if she begins to warrant negative press. Keep your eye on this one, she definitely has top 5 potential.

Anoop Desai - Chapel Hill, NC

Anoop-Dawg in the house! Anoop was unique to this season as he became the first exception to the rule of the Top 12 singers. Along with the viewers at home, Anoop was shocked to hear, of all people, Simon Cowell's announcement at the end of the Wild Card show. As Anoop began to walk off stage right, the Simon made the announcement that this years top 12 had just been altered and would actually be the top 13! The joy that Anoop and his family then shared can not be described in words. Anoop is surely one of the fan favorites, but in reality all those fans should realize that he has no chance at winning the entire competition. Every week that he sticks around is a boost for the entertainment value of the show. Anoop is a your everyday average suburban wannabe gangster, and America LOVES IT! Rather than be safe, Anoop picks to perform the songs that the audience wants to hear. Rather than look poised and polished, Anoop is not afraid to flop around and run all over the stage. His voice is good but he continues to choose the songs that he likes, which are not always the most flattering to amateur vocalists. His stay on the show should last no more than 4 more weeks, but this competition will surely open doors for Anoop's future. Take it for what it's worth Anoop and enjoy the ride!

Next entries feature - Danny Gokey and Kris Allen...stay tuned!