American Idol Mania in LA  2/1/07

By Marcus

"American Idol Mania in LA"

Okay, we are in LA where strangeness is akin to normalcy and everyone is waiting to be discovered. Thousands and thousands filled the Rose Bowl waiting for their discovery before the three judges accompanied with guest judge, Olivia Newton John.

First up was self-proclaimed fireball, the roaring and clawing panther himself, Martique. Telling us that "I am the most exciting entertainer on earth" besides having visions of being an actor and a movie producer, he was horrible. Simply horrible. His serpent-like hissing wouldn't even impress a garden snake.

Backed with support and love from her mother, a former Dean Martin TV Gold Digger singer, poor Marianna did not perform well. In tears and nearly hysterical after the judges said "no way," she literally fell to her knees begging for one more chance. She didn't get it.

Finally we had a possibility. After six years of failed try outs, Alena had all but given up her singing aspirations. She came to American Idol for a final decision about her singing destiny. Her destiny is a gold ticket to Hollywood and an opportunity.

And Phong? She abandoned music to appease her family and guess what? They were right.

Finally we had a polished performer with charisma. Brandon has been background singer to some of the biggest names and it is now his time to shine. This gentle spirit singer could easily make it as a finalist. And ladies, his smooth vocals will melt your hearts.

Back for his second try, Season 5 gold ticket winner Brian wanted another shot at the gold ring. He will get it. But for me, his voice sounded like warm Maple-flavored syrup. Imitation. Not the real stuff.

And then we had the winner of American Idol try-outs in LA. Sherman had a petition with over 350 names giving him their support as this 60+ year old man wanted to sing. Just a few days before the audition, his wife of 20 years succumbed to cancer but he wanted to carry their dream of his singing to the judges. And Sherman, you made her proud. And we who love and have loved are proud of you. You did not win a gold ticket, but you have won our hearts.

Sparkles Carvette is in love with her boyfriend of two years, soft spoken and off key Darryl. They met at a bus stop and have been inseparable since. And they need to limit their singing while riding ‘cause there is no gold ticket for them.

Lastly, we heard the falsetto screech of Eric. For the past two years he has been dedicating himself to becoming the next American Idol. And who served as his mentor in this quest? None other than Paula and Randy's "How to Sing" CD. Isn't' there something about false advertising?

Okay, we are done with LA and I think close to 35 singers were awarded gold tickets. There is just one more nation wide audition and you can learn all about those results right here, next week.

Survey - Who Is Your Favorite American Idol Judge?

see also:

1/31/07 American Idol Mania in Birmingham

1/25/07 American Idol Mania in New York City

1/24/07 American Idol Mania in Memphis

1/18/07 American Idol Mania in Seattle

1/17/07 American Idol Mania Returns