American Idol

With the announcement of the top 24, I feel inclined to post a little something about my favorites... I have to make this disclaimer, though: My opinions are based on the limited airtime for each contestant! (for a more informed opinion, please come back and see my review after their performances next week)

Blake Lewis. He is so fun to watch and I am excited about hearing him do some singing (though his beatboppin' is Sweet)!

Nicolas Pedro's sweet and earnest spirit stood out during the auditions - He is one of many repeat auditioners. Last season he was cut in Hollywood week. Hopefully he has grown as a singer and will stick around for a while.

Sanjaya Malakar is this season's sweetie! (and another one of a kind contestant) The moment his face hit the screen, I knew he would make it! Look at that smile - come on. This kid has a heart of gold and a set of pipes that could power him into the top 10.

Paul Kim is one of a kind! I can't recall there ever being an asian male that stuck around very long... am I wrong?? I haven't heard him sing, but look forward to. If he sings barefoot, he must be a very chill kinda guy.

Rudy Cardenas caught my attention (and Paula's!) during his audition. Simon turned him down, but Paula and Randy sent him through... I don't think Rudy will be crowned king, but has a nice enough voice and personality.

Amy Krebs. Though I've never seen or heard her, I liked her interview questions... that's all.

Ah, Gina Glocksen. Another season 5 reject, she makes it to the finals this year. Will she suffer from the fate of Melissa McGhee?? (one of my favorites, with a smokey voice who was cut early)

Melinda Doolittle rocks. Wait till you hear her!!

Brandon Rogers, Chris Sligh, Sundance Head and Lakisha Jones are sure to be around for a long time. So I didn't feel the need to mention them.

Leslie Hunt, AJ Tabaldo, Nicole Tranquillo, Alaina Alexander, Chris Richardson and Jared Cotter will probably be leaving us soon. While Antonella Barba, Jordin Sparks, Haley Scarnato, Phil Stacey, Sabrina Sloan and Stephanie Edwards may last a bit longer.

Let the competition begin!! Be sure to watch American Idol:
Tuesday (8-10 ET) -- The Top 12 Boys perform
Wednesday (8-10 ET) -- The Top 12 Girls perform
Thursday (8-9 ET)-- The First Live Results Show