AMERICAN IDOL FRENZY ON ONE-WEEK HIATUS

Our children have planned a vacation with us so that for the next week we will be spending time here with them -- will be back blogging on August 3rd. See you then! Sphere: Related Content

ON LATE TUESDAY, PAULA REPORTED THAT SHE STILL HAD HEARD NOTHING FROM IDOL PRODUCERS

American Idol judge Paula Abdul sent fans one brief Twitter message late on Tuesday.

Her message to fans: "Hey guys, I have not made a deal w/#IDOL. Don't know how that rumor for started but it's not true as I still haven't heard from producers." By 6:30 p.m. EST Wednesday, no additional messages had been posted.

Earlier Abdul sent several messages chatting with her fans and expressing appreciation for their support as she waits for a contract proposal for returning to the popular television show.

She wrote, "You are keepin my spirits dancin!" Sphere: Related Content

WILL PAULA RETURN TO IDOL -- OR WILL SHE GUEST JUDGE ON SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE?

Paula Abdul fans have been adamant -- they want Paula back on American Idol! Idol judge Simon Cowell says he wants Paula sitting next to him at the judges' table next season -- and host Ryan Seacrest says that he wants her there too. Former American Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe wrote on Twitter that Fox would be crazy not to bring her back. And fans have been bombarding Twitter with #keeppaula messages to make their sentiments known!

If American Idol executives really want Abdul back, they may need to step up to the plate and show it because So You Think You Can Dance producer (former executive producer of American Idol) Lythgoe, who has supported her all along, has expressed that he would happily consider her as a guest judge on his popular dance competition show.

"We would certainly consider (Abdul as) a guest judge," Lythgoe confided to the NY Daily News -- "Without question." Abdul, besides making a strong mark as a singer, has also enjoyed a noted dancing and choreography career, working with such noted artists as Janet Jackson.

"I'd never been involved in negotiations when I was with the show (American Idol)," Lythgoe told the Daily News, "but having spoken with (Fox president of alternative programming) Mike Darnell, I know Fox wants to keep Paula. The figures that have been quoted for Simon (Cowell) and Ryan (Seacrest) are great figures. I don't know if they're true, but Paula seeing those figures would make her pretty upset."

Darnell declined to comment on Tuesday -- except to tell the Daily News that, "They will talk and try to iron things out, and if they don't come to an agreement, then Paula will move on. At the end of the day, that program is bigger than any indiviual. Even Simon."

Rumors are spreading like wildfire that Abdul wants $20 million to come back -- and her tv executive bosses only want to cough up half of that amount.

Still, with Seacrest recently inking a $45 million contract -- and Cowell rumored to want $100 million to return to Idol when his contract runs out after this next season, does $20 million seem unreasonable for Paula? Not only is she the sweetest and kindest judge, but she also provides the balance for Cowell's sometimes harsh assessment of contestant's performances. And if there is one thing that can be said for Paula, it is that she is always interesting!

Again, given the fact that execs handed Seacrest a $45 million contract, it seems unlikely that their coffers are so empty that they cannot find less than half of that amount for Paula -- of course, assuming that rumors are correct and $20 million is what she actually wants. Sphere: Related Content

FIRST AMERICAN IDOL KELLY CLARKSON SETS TOUR DATES

The first crowned American Idol Kelly Clarkson has released dates and locations for her "All I Ever Wanted" Tour that will find her traveling this autumn from coast to coast in the U.S. and also traveling into Canada.

Clarkson surged from an undiscovered talent in Texas to America's favorite sweetheart when she won Idol and became a pop-music phenom in 2002. Since then she has released multiple singles and albums, including Thankful, Breakaway, My December and her newest, All I Ever Wanted.

October 2 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino
October 4 Portland, ME Cumberland County Civic Center
October 6 New York, NY Hammerstein Ballroom
October 9 Atlantic City, NJ Borgata Hotel & Casino
October 10 Fairfax, VA Patriot Center
October 13 Boston, MA Agganis Arena at Boston University
October 15 Orillia, ON Casino Rama Entertainment Centre
October 17 Youngstown, OH Covelli Centre
October 19 Pikeville, KY Eastern Kentucky Expo Center
October 21 Knoxville, TN Knoxville Civic Coliseum
October 23 Milwaukee, WI Milwaukee Theatre
October 25 Detroit, MI Fox Theatre
October 27 Chicago, IL Rosemont Theatre
October 29 Lincoln, NE Pershing Center
October 31 St. Charles, MO Family Arena
November 2 Cedar Park, TX Cedar Park Center
November 4 Lubbock, TX United Spirit Arena
November 6 Las Vegas, NV The Joint
November 7 Phoenix, AZ Arizona State Fair
November 18 Victoria, BC Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre
November 20 Calgary, AB Saddledome
November 22 Kelowna, BC Prospera Place
November 24 Seattle, WA WaMu Theater
November 28 Reno, NV Reno Events Center
November 29 San Jose, CA Event Center at San Jose University
December 1 Fresno, CA Save Mart Center at Fresno State
December 3 Las Cruces, NM Pan American Center
December 5 Beaumont, TX Ford Park Arena
December 7 Corpus Christi, TX American Bank Center
December 10 Columbus, GA Columbus Civic Center
December 11 Pensacola, FL Pensacola Civic Center
December 13 Hollywood, FL Seminole Hard Rock Live Arena Sphere: Related Content

"NO BOUNDARIES" DELETED FROM IDOL TOUR SET LIST -- AUDIENCES WERE NOT CONNECTING TO IT

The Kara DioGuardi written "No Boundaries" has been removed from American Idol Kris Allen's list of songs performed on the American Idol tour. Instead, Allen is singing Killer's "All These Things That I've Done." And fans say they like set list change.

Allen told MTV that he likes the DioGuardi penned song, but it simply did not work well with other songs on the set list.

"We were talking to the tour director and stuff," he explained, "and it kinda just didn't work with the set."

But Idol contestant Scott MacIntyre told eonline, "What I hear from people here was that they could tell the audiences weren't connecting to it. When I listen from backstage, I thought it was a good song, and I thought that Kris did it well, and it was even better than during the finale. He was really jiving with it, but it was an executive decision that he and the producers made based on the energy from the crowd. There are mixed emotions about that song because obviously it's still being pushed, so you kind of expect to hear it on the tour."

Fans and critics were describing "No Boundaries" as "sticking out" among Allen's five-song set list, reported MTV. Among his performances are fan favorite during the Idol competition, Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine," along with Kayne West's "Heartless" and the Beatles' "Hey Jude."

Allen told MTV that he noticed a positive difference in the audience's reaction to the song change. "Obviously, adding the Killers song was a, you know, boost in the energy," Allen said.

From the unveiling of "No Boundaries" through to the early tour concerts, though, it seems that many fans simply did not care very much for the song. MTV quoted some Idol fans who said that they were pleased with the song switch.

"I'm so glad that Kris took 'No Boundaries' out of the show," said Allison Beal of Sacramento, California. "There are so many great songs, and it wasn't fair that he had to sing that one. It's okay, but just not a really great song."

And Peter Hunt, also from Sacramento, agreed, "I think that I like anything that Kris sings, but, personally, I just didn't care that much for 'No Boundaries.'" Sphere: Related Content

SIMON WANTS PAULA BACK ON AMERICAN IDOL

Simon wants Paula back on American Idol! So does Ryan!

While Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul are famous for their little on-air games of love and/or annoyance with each other, the pure and simple truth seems that they enjoy each other, enjoy their games -- and Cowell wants Paula sitting at his side on Idol this coming season.

"I've just made it clear that I want Paula on the show," Cowell revealed to A&E. "She'll be fine. She'll be on the show. I don't get a lot of say. I've just made it clear that I want Paula on the show."

And host Ryan Seacrest, who just inked a new $45 million contract that triples his previous salary, shares Cowell's sentiments.

"I think as far as I know, you'll see everybody back," said Seacrest -- adding, "I hope so."

Since Abdul's attorney, David Sonenberg, revealed last week that Abdul had not received a contract proposal from 19 Entertainment or Fox, there had arisen a concern among her fans that she might not return to Idol.

And while fans wait for further word on Abdul's future with American Idol, they also are waiting to hear whether the other half of that constantly kidding duo will return after this next season. Cowell's current contract keeps him on the show for another run, but rumors have been flying that he is in contract negotiations and wants something in the neighborhood of $100 million to remain on the show beyond his current contract. Sphere: Related Content

PAULA ABDUL -- ENTITLED TO FAIRNESS AND RESPECT

Could anything offer more drama than an afternoon Soap Opera? Well, these days, it seems that the highest drama is reality, not the fiction of afternoon soaps. The question of whether Paula Abdul will return as a judge on American Idol has been a series of twists and turns.

First, Abdul announced that American Idol executives wanted her for the entire duration of the talent show’s run. Fans breathed a sigh of relief. Paula was coming back.

Then Abdul’s attorney, David Sonenberg, said that Paula was “hurt” because 19 Entertainment had never come forth with a contract proposal for her. Perhaps Paula was not coming back.

Former American Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe chimed in to reassure fans, saying that (Fox) “would be crazy to let her go.” And some Idol contestants sent Twitter messages in support of her too. Perhaps Paula would be back after all.

Of course, some opinions have been expressed that perhaps Abdul might simply be holding out for more money. The Chicago Sun Times in an article wrote Abdul “clearly wants a big raise from the estimated $2.5 million she’s been getting per season – particularly since Seacrest has inked a $45 million, 3-year deal.”

That seems something to ponder – Seacrest’s new deal triples his previous salary. And there are rumors that Cowell wants something in the neighborhood of $100 million to stay on Idol beyond this next year. If Abdul truly earns $2.5 million, as the Times reported, clearly she might feel unfairly rewarded and entitled to a raise. After all, she is one-half of the cute little love-hate joking with Cowell – and she devotes the same amount of time to assessing on-air performances as Cowell, Jackson and last season’s new judge Kara DioGuardi.

It is possible that what Abdul really expects is fairness and respect. Supporting that possibility is an interview with American Idol contestants on tour. When the contestants were asked whether any of the Idol judges would likely watch them perform, the response was that they didn’t know – but if anyone came, it would be Paula because it is not all about money with her.

Whether Abdul wants fairness, respect and/or a raise, all three would seem reasonable. So the real question is why are those in charge of negotiating and sending a contract proposal not doing that? Do they want her back, or do they not want her back? Whatever their intentions, it is time for them to make their intentions known. Enough is enough. Obviously, Abdul would like to know. And, obviously, fans would like to know as well.

And, of course, days are passing quickly -- and the earliest American Idol tryouts are less than a month away.

Is Paula coming back – or is Paula not coming back?

Sphere: Related Content

NIGEL LYTHGOE CHIMES IN ON PAULA'S CONTRACT SITUATION

Former American Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe posted a message on Twitter early Sunday morning: "On my way back from UK to US. I assure all you wonderful Paula fans FOX wants to keep Ms. Abdul for 'A1." They would be crazy to let her go." Sphere: Related Content

ADBUL 'MOVED 2 TEARS" OVER OUTPOURING OF KINDNESS

American Idol judge Paula Abdul, who wants to return to the popular television talent show but has received no contract proposal, is garnering a heavy and heartfelt outpouring of love, support and tweets from her fans.

And if the multitude of "#Paula" messages circulating and snowballing on the social network utility Twitter are any example, fans definitely want Idol executives to know that they want Paula back.

Noted among those lending support to the campaign with #KeepPaula messages are this past season's American Idol finalists Danny Gokey, Matt Giraud and Anoop Desai!

Abdul, obviously very emotional and appreciative that fans have jumped to her defense, has tweeted her thanks to her fans.

"I'm actually moved 2 tears upon reading the enormous amount of tweets showing me your kindness, love,&undying support," wrote Abdul. "God bless all of you!" And then she continued, "If it weren't for you, this specific time and situation would feel a whole lot worse! xoP"

One Tweeter wrote, "ok guys paula abdul is not gonna be on idol she need are help we can all help by making #keeppaula number 1 trending topic." Another wrote, "AI is nothing without Paula and Simon, and without Paula, Simon is nothing. Sorry but it's true! #KeepPaula #KeepPaula #keeppaula." And still another pleaded, "help needed pleaseee I beg of you come and help us #keeppaula #keeppaula #keeppaula #keeppaula."

On Friday her manager, David Sonenberg told the Los Angeles Times that Abdul had no contract proposal -- adding that he had contacted both 19 Entertainment and Fox and said that "Paula would love to be back on the show." He added that Fox's response was that he would hear from them, but that they had received no proposal at all.

"She's hurt," said Sonenberg. "I find it under these circumstances particularly unusual; I think unnecessarily hurtful. I find it kind of unconscionable and certainly rude and disrespectful that they haven't stepped up and said what they want to do."

With Idol auditions scheduled to begin on Aug. 6th, Sonenberg said, "Very sadly, it does not appear that she's going to be back on 'Idol'.

But Idol fans have made their sentiments clear -- they want Paula back! Sphere: Related Content

PAULA ABDUL'S RETURN TO AMERICAN IDOL IN QUESTION

American Idol will never be the same without congenial Paula Abdul sitting next to Simon, joking with him -- and finding something nice to say to every contestant, even if it is only that he or she looks great that night. But after weeks of speculation, Abdul still has no renewal contract -- and her manager is saying that she may not be returning to the show.

"Very sadly, it does not appear that she's (Paula) going to be back on Idol," David Sonenberg, Abdul's manager, reported according to Los Angeles Times.

Sonenberg at nearly midnight on Friday reported to the Times that he had "reached out to the head of business affairs at 19," and they told Fox that "Paula would love to be on the show." The response from Fox, he said, was that he would hear from them, but "I have not received any proposal whatsoever."

While next season American Idol shows will not air until January, auditions are scheduled to begin on Aug. 6th, less than three weeks away -- and Sonenberg revealed that he does not even have a proposal for a new contract from FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment.

"I find it, under these circumstances, particularly unusual -- I think unnecessarily hurtful," he had explained earlier in discussing the absence of active negotiations, according to the Times. "I find it kind of unconscionable an certainly rude and disrespectful that they haven't stepped up and said what they want to do."

Complicating the situation for Abdul is the fact that the show added a fourth judge, Kara DioGuardi, last season. There has been some speculation that DioGuardi was brought onto the show as a possible replacement for Abdul -- or that her presence was a warning to Abdul that she should temper her contract demands when it was time to renews. Both Abdul and DioGuardi have said that they would like to return to the show.

"She's not a happy camper as a result of what's going on," said Sonenberg. "She's hurt. She's angry. I think at this point we're going to be considering everything, including some kind of a competition show. She has tremendous ideas for a whole variety of shows."

Host Ryan Seacrest has a new $45 million contract that will keep him on the show for another three years. Randy Jackson's contract runs through 2011. Simon Cowell has been in contract renewal talks for weeks, but no agreement has been reported to date. And the show has also not announced a renewal with DioGuardi who reported had a one-year contract.

Paula Abdul's manager: She'll leave 'Idol' if rude producers don't step up new deal Sphere: Related Content

FORMER AMERICAN IDOL CONTESTANT TEAMS WITH RANDY JACKSON ON ALBUM AND MICHAEL JOHNS ON TOUR

American Idol judge Randy Jackson must have seen a little bit of magic in one former American Idol contestant – blond, former nanny, Brooke White.

Jackson, who has never before been involved with an album by an Idol alum, is executive producer of “High Hopes & Heartbreak”, White’s sophomore album due for release on June Baby Records on June 21. Jackson, White and White’s manager, Carl Stubner formed that label, and Jackson is taking an even higher step with White in co-managing her career. White’s initial album, “Songs From the Attic” was released before her stint on American Idol.

As for the Jackson and White pairing, the demure White told The Salt Lake Tribune, “It is completely bizarre. I never saw this coming. I have no idea why he’s working with me.”

But Jackson was quick to explain. “What I loved about her was that she was a straight-up real artist, he said. “There’s always room for artists. You have pop stars, and then you have artists. The holy grail are artists. The sprinters are pop stars.”

White, who will also be teaming with Michael Johns for a West Coast Midwest tour beginning on August 16th in Pomona, CA, said that after her elimination from Idol, she was in a Los Angeles guitar store when Randy Jackson walked in. They began talking, she said, and before they even realize it, an hour and a half had gone by.

“He was so personable,” White later recalled. “He said, ‘If there’s anything I can do to help out, let me know.’” But White, 26, admitted that she thought that the offer was a kindness, but never expected anything would come of it. But lo and behold, a few months later, out of the blue, Jackson called her and asked if she would be interested in making a record with him as executive producer. And she said that she jumped at the chance.

Jackson then became her “sounding board” – helped her locate a writing partner and encouraged her to stay focused on writing the kind of music that she truly wanted to record.

“She’s not going to be Lady Gaga,” admitted Jackson. “You’re not looking at fitting her into a box.”

So White settled down to compose music straight from her heart -- music with what some people have referred to as a Carole King and Carly Simon kind of sound.

In addressing White’s new album, NY Post opined, she has “a full-fledged audio arsenal backing her up, headed by the one and only Randy Jackson. … Her new CD brings reasons-a-plenty as to why… you should give her at least a 10-minute listen. Brook’s country drenched cover of Kings of Leon’s ‘Use Somebody’ takes what that band already developed and paints it with a feeling of young love. Also, her mid-America themed video for the album’s first single, ‘Radio Radio’, embodies the tingly emotion that makes you feel like a 12-year old kid again.”



On White’s Facebook page, fans reveal not only how much they enjoy her new single, but how much the lyrics touch their hearts. One fan wrote, “I love love love Radio. … When I was younger, radio was such a big part of my life. My 3 sisters and I would listen and dance all day long. We would try (unsuccessfully) to win contests, dialing, dialing, dialing. On warm afternoons, I would go to my friend’s house and we would sing along to the Carpenters. … I still listen to the radio and remember.”

“’Hopes’” is already doing well on iTues,” White smiled and revealed. “It was such a personal process making this record. It’s like putting your babies out there.” The album, she explained, is “a bit of a throwback.” She described it as a singer/songwriter album with an organic tone – some a little California country – and there’s even a disco tune.

One song, “Out of the Ashes,” she said was particularly meaningful. But she added that “Sometimes Love” is another of her favorites. “It’s hard to choose. I go through different phases where I reconnect with each of them in different ways.”

Another of White’s Facebook connections wrote of her favorite, “I really love ‘Phoenix.’ I think the line, ‘Now I’m getting older still my memory holds on to you’ is something everyone can relate to, regardless of what memory it is that the person is holding on to. … It reminds me of the memories I shared with some of my favorite people when I was a kid, and even as I grow older I still remember them as if it were just yesterday.”

In reading the emotions pouring from fans on Facebook, the reader gets the sense of turning pages of secret diaries – reading of love, happiness and sadness so personal and meaningful to their lives that it delves to the depth of their souls. And it is White’s music that reunites these fans with the most poignant times of their lives. Whether happiness or sadness, they live their emotions once again.

Brooke said that while the American Idol experience was one of the most monumental of her life, it was when the Idol tour ended that she began to really pressure herself to make a second album. “I was really motivated by myself,” she explained. “The first thing, I got back to songwriting. After the show and the tour, you’re kind of depleted. But you’re also so full with so many things to write about. (The album) was pretty much finished by the end of April. It went really fast, but it was really rewarding and super fun.”

But she admits that it was a stroke of luck that she met Jackson in that guitar store – setting her career back into full emotion.

Recalling her American Idol days, White expressed that she has had a lot of luck, that “American Idol is a household name. I’m really glad to be associated with it. Of course, I want to expand on that. At the end of the day, that’s the opportunity that launched my career. But it’s not solely who I am as a person and an artist.”

And the most recent American Idol Top Ten are all rooting for White.

Idol finalist Adam Lambert, a White fan, said that he appreciates the pure and simple quality of her music. “She’s a singer-songwriter in the vein of Carole King,” he said. And eighth place finisher Scott MacIntyre, a singer-pianist himself, explained that what he likes is her distinctive style of singing and playing. When White premiered one of a song from her album, “”Hold Up My Heart” on American Idol, MacIntyre felt that she really “re-established herself, and the reception was great.”

White admits that having a new album gives her “a billion butterfilies.” But she also feels that “there’s a great deal of excitement, along with (the) nervousness.”

With Jackson’s guiding hand, it is unlikely that anyone will be surprised to see White emerging as one of the most exciting and successful of American Idol alum!

White and Michael John’s tour dates:
August 2009
16 - Pomona, CA - Glass House
17- Sacramento, CA - Boardwalk
19 - Reno, NV - Club Underground
21 - Portland, OR - Hawthorne Theatre
22 - Seattle, WA - Chop Suey
23 - Spokane, WA - Knitting Factory
24 - Boise, ID - Knitting Factory
26 - Salt Lake City, UT - Avalon Theater
27 - Denver, CO - Bluebird Theater
29 - Lawrence, KS - Bottleneck
30 - Des Moines, IA - People's Court Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL GARNERS EIGHT EMMY AWARD NOMINATIONS

Twenty-two reality television shows received a total of 63 nominations in today's announcement of the 61st Annual Primetime Emmy Award nominees -- with the number of shows and amount of total nominations the highest ever for the reality television genre.

American Idol received eight nominations which ties its previous record in 2005-06, placing it second behind Dancing with the Stars with a count of ten nominations. The show has received one Emmy Award in each of the past two years -- although it was shut-out during its first four years of eligibility even though it received 22 nominations.

American Idol nominations are as follows:

Outstanding Reality-Competition Program

Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video for a Miniseries, Movie or a Special

Outstanding Directing for a Variety, Music or Comedy Program

Outstanding Multi-Camera Picture Editing for a Series

Outstanding Picture Editing for Reality Programming

Outstanding Lighting Direction (Electronic, Multi-Camera) for VMC Programming

Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video for a Series Sphere: Related Content

WILL SIMON COWELL BECOME A $144 MILLION DOLLAR MAN?

If Simon Cowell actually inks the $144 million deal reportedly in discussions, he will become the the highest star in television history. Fans have been waiting anxiously to know whether the popular judge will return to American Idol for more than simply this next season, but it appears that the answer hinges on money.

While Cowell probably has no bionic limbs, as did The Six Million Dollar Man of the 1970's hit television show, with a $144 million dollar contract he would probably have more power than that tv hero and most likely could well afford a mechanical arm or leg or two if he so desired!

"If the deal with the American network Fox goes ahead," reports telegraph.co.uk, "Cowell, 49, will quadruple his current 25 million pound annual pay, netting him 2.2 million for every hour he appears onscreen."

Cowell's negotiations are being conducted by Cowell's new business partner, Topshop mogul Sir Philip Green, according to the Daily Mirror.

But Cowell, according to the Insider, is implying that no such price-hefty contract is in the works. He was quoted as responding, "I wish! Come off it."

However, a Fox insider reportedly revealed, "The word went out from on high to pay Simon what he needs. Without him the show would be a shadow of itself and without American Idol, we're in the dumper. We're confident of getting our man."

Last month it was announced that Cowell and Sir Philip expect to start an international entertainment company. While the pair are reportedly old friends, this would be their first joint business venture. With bases in both London and Los Angeles, the company would be involved in such show business areas as television production and new formats for programs, talent management and merchandising, according to telegraph.co.uk. Cowell would likely be at the helm of presenting and producing shows, and Green would oversee finances, strategy and merchandising.

Meanwhile, the entertainment world also awaits word of contract negotiations being conducted by American Idol's other judges, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi. Sphere: Related Content

DEMI LOVATO AND AMERICAN IDOL JUDGE KARA DioGUARDI WORKING TOGETHER

Apple of Disney's eye Demi Lovato, who released album Don't Forget in 2008, is working with American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi on new songs for Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam.

Lovato, in the midst of touring, the release of another new album and preparing for the production of "Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam," has been hard at work recording songs for the movie's soundtrack.

It was on Twitter that, according to MTV, Lovato revealed that she is now recording songs with DioGuardi, no stranger to Camp Rock. "Fun Fact:", wrote Lovato, "Kara wrote Camp Rock's 'We Rock' and my song 'The Middle.' And we co-wrote 'Believe in Me' together. Psshh ... I knew her butt PRE-American Idol!!!"

DioGuardi, Toby Gad and a number of other songwriters have been asked to lend their talents to the soundtrack which Disney reports will feature a number of music genres, including pop, rock, R&B and hip-hop.

Lovato reportedly said that she is excited to be Mitchie for the second "Camp Rock" film, and excited to be back at work with the Jonas Brothers who it is rumored may also be involved in some songs with her too. "They're my closest friends," said Lovato. "Even in our free time, we'd be like, 'Let's go write a song.' We were just thinking it's going to be so much fun." Sphere: Related Content

DAUGHTRY'S STRONG ROCK ALBUM HITS THE STORES; TELEVISION APPEARANCES SCHEDULED THIS WEEK

Fans of Daughtry, with American Idol Season 5 finalist Chris Daughtry as frontman, will have a full agenda this week. First, the band's new album, "Leave This Town" has arrived in record stores and is available for purchase.

Next, there are the television shows -- appearances to promote the new album. On Wednesday, Daughtry will be on The View. Then on Thursday, the band will rock on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien -- and on Friday, it will be Jimmy Kimmel Live.

Chris Daughtry might not have been crowned an American Idol winner, but it is hard to believe that winning would have rocketed his career beyond where it is today!

In an early review of the new album, Mario Tarradell of the DallasNews expressed: "Leave This Town comes packed with the same big-chorus stadium rockers that hooked fans of mainstream pop and rock during these last three years. Listening to Daughtry and Leave This Town makes it clear why this group enjoyed such huge success."

And some fans have already issued their rave reviews. On Twitter, one fan wrote, "This CD Rocks!" Another said, "I love the new cd." And another opined, "new daughry cd is AMAZING. like, seriously, I'm in love."

Obviously pleased with fans' responses, Chris Daughtry responded, "You all have made me smile BIG today with all your praise toward "Leave This Town"!!! Thank U all!"

It looks like this second Daughtry album, Leave This Town, might just match or surpass the success of the first album -- which sold 4.5 million copies! American Idol connections can definitely count Chris Daughtry as an Idol alum who has made a big impact in the music world -- and his fans on the show will want to continue following his career post-American Idol. For Daughtry, this seems only the beginning! Sphere: Related Content

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MATT GIRAUD FOLLOWS SEACREST'S LEAD

American Idol finalist Matt Giraud is not planning to give up singing anytime soon, but he will add "host" and "mentor" to his list of accomplishments.

This week Giraud will host "Make the Cut" when it airs on YOBI.tv. This show, like American Idol, provides aspiring singers a platform for showcasing their talent.

The show is being touted at "the first online reality vocal TV show."

Giraud, from Kalamazoo, is currently on a whirlwind national tour with American Idol Kris Allen and other American Idol Top Ten finalists. Giraud, who has said that he can hardly believe that "I was doing this in a hotel lobby a year and a-half ago, on Twitter wrote that the tour is the "most fun I've ever had in my life. THIS is my dream job f'sho!"

Individuals who are interested in competing to appear on the show are asked to submit videos to YOBI.tv by the stated September deadline. Judges will select a group of competitors to be judged by YOBI.tv members. The show's viewers will then watch as the top dozen finalists receive advice and guidance from Giraud in professional recording studios in Michigan -- and the eventual winner of the competition will win the chance to actually "Cut a Record," the show revealed.

"I think anyone's good enough to audition," said Giraud, "even the ones we might think are silly. It's fun. Everyone should get out there and try it."

The competition is open to individuals who are at least 18 years old, a legal resident of the U.S. or of a country with diplomatic relations with the U.S. and not already a 2009-10 Season 2 YOBISing Semifinalist. Additional information and rules can be found at http://yobi.tv/make_the_cut/ Sphere: Related Content

KRIS ALLEN HAS CANCELLED TONIGHT SHOW APPEARANCE BECAUSE OF A DEATH IN THE FAMILY

American Idol Kris Allen has cancelled his scheduled appearance on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien because of a death in the family, but last-girl-standing in the competition, Allison Iraheta will step in to take his place.

It is, however, expected that Allen will participate in all American Idol Tour concerts.

Kris is mourning the loss of his grandmother, said a representative of the American Idol television show.

"I know I was supposed to do conan on wed, but there was a death in my family," Kris told his fans on social network Twitter. "But everyone watch Allson on Wed. She is filling in." And he continued, "and by filling in I mean (she) is gonna rock Conan's face off on Wednesday."

After an outpouring of love and support for fans, Allen sent his most recent message, "Thanks eveeryone for the love."

And Allen's fellow American Idol contestants were quick to offer their condolences and ask fans to keep his Kris and his family in their thoughts.



Allison, on Twitter, wrote, "Love ya man .. Keep yo head up."

And Idol contestant Matt Giraud wrote, "Just heard about the death in Kris' family. Keeping him in my thoughts."

Another contestant, Anoop Desai, expressed, "I know kris appreciates all the concern -- keep his family in your thoughts." Sphere: Related Content

RYAN SEACREST INKS DEAL BELIEVED TO MAKE HIM THE RICHEST REALITY SHOW HOST EVER!

It is official! Ryan Seacrest just masterfully inked a $45 million deal that is believed to make him the absolute richest realty show host in history!

This comes just one day after American Idol Frenzy authored an exclusive article highlighting Seacrest’s rise to fame not just in front of reality show cameras, but as one of the most successful masters on the business side of reality television.

Seacrest’s new contract – which more than triples his previous almost $5 million contract -- will keep him as host of “American Idol” for another three years. And it provides for the opportunity for Seacrest and his Ryan Seacrest Productions to take on addition projects with “American Idol” creator Simon Fuller.

Already Seacrest anchors E! Entertainment News, as well as hosting a syndicated radio talk show and the radio countdown show “American Top 40.”

CKX, the parent company of American Idol producer 19 Entertainment, will have exclusive primetime rights to Seacrest for not only American Idol, but also for any other show that might succeed it, according to industry sources.

Meanwhile, word has still not come of breakthroughs in contract negotiations with American Idols’ judges – so that is likely next on the CKX agenda. But Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson and Kara DioGuardi all say that they want to return for the next season, and Simon Cowell, regardless of the outcome of his contract negotiations, will return for one more year under his current contract. The British media have reported that Cowell, whose current deal has been estimated at $36 million a year, wants $100 million a year under a new contract, according to Reuters.com.

While ratings have slipped for American Idol, it still remains the highest-rated series on television. Currently auditions for the show are being held around the country, and the show’s last season contestants are in the midst of a summer tour. Sphere: Related Content

RYAN SEACREST WELL ON HIS WAY TO BECOMING TOP ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY MAGNATE

Even if Ryan Seacrest and Lindsay Lohan do team up for a new reality show, it looks like that project will in no way prevent Seacrest from continuing in his very lucrative spot as host of the most popular reality show of all, American Idol! And Seacrest, 34, with the high energy of youth, shows no signs of simply stepping back and enjoying his success, but is on track to become one of the busiest and highest earning achievers in the entire entertainment industry!

Move over Donald Trump, there is a new, young business giant on the rise!

Already Seacrest, in addition to American Idol duties, anchors E! News and hosts a daily radio show and American Top 40. His easy style as a television host seems to mask his high energy and equally high business ambitions.

Seacrest and Lohan, according to nydailynews.com, met last month at H’Wood to discuss joint venture ideas. “Met with Lindsay last night about a show idea I have for her … It helps people an gives others a second shot. Still putting it all together,” Seacrest wrote on Twitter.

Lohan described the project as “something meaningful like Extreme Home Makeover on ABC.” Rumors are that show will focus on people who have headed down the wrong track and will receive $1 million to turn their lives around with a second chance. It is also rumored that Lohan’s role will be as one of the judges who listen to stories from contestants.

Of course, Seacrest has already developed considerable experience in the reality television world as the “mastermind” of NBC’s “Momma’s Boys,” MTV’s “Bromance” and E!’s “Denise Richards: It’s Complicated” and “Keeping Up with the Kardashians.”
Word on the street is that 19 Entertainment and Seacrest, along with Frementle and Fox, will on Monday announce a deal that will keep Seacrest on “Idol” for another three years and make him one of the highest paid hosts of a reality television show. He reportedly already earned $5 million for this season under his current contract. And part of the deal, according to industry sources, is that the deal will allow him to develop new projects with Idol creator Simon Fuller and 19 Entertainment.

In an earlier generation it was Dick Clark who rocketed emcee duties into a lucrative business empire -- but in this current generation, it looks like the next Sphere: Related Content

RYAN SEACREST IN PROCESS OF INKING DEAL THAT WOULD MAKE HIM ONE OF THE HIGHEST PAID TELEVISION REALITY SHOW HOSTS

American Idol host Ryan Seacrest may soon have a whole lot to sing about! If a deal reportedly in the works becomes finalized, the popular host will become one of the highest paid front men on any television reality show!

Seacrest’s current contract with Fox, which expires at the end of the 2010 season, already gives the handsome and popular host almost $5 million a season for his work on American Idol. This amounts to something in the neighborhood of $100,000 per episode.

And reportedly the new deal being discussed is a three-year extension on the American Idol television show with a “major pay raise,” according to industry sources. In addition, the new contract may allow him to develop new projects with American Idol creator Simon Fuller and with 19 Entertainment.

Besides his hosting on American Idol, E! News and on his radio shows, Seacrest has produced unscripted series including “Keeping Up With the Kardashians,” “Denise Richards, It’s Complicated” and a new program featuring British chef Jamie Oliver.

All four of the American Idol judges have reportedly been in contract negotiations – with Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Kara DioGuari saying that they want to return for the next season. But it is unclear where Simon Cowell stands because it has also been reported that he might leave the show when his contract is up after next season. Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL ALUMNI, UPCOMING ALBUMS TO BE RELEASED THIS YEAR

American Idol alumni will be giving their fans lots of music choices to buy in the months leading up to the end of this year.

Current 2009 American Idol Kris Allen, runner-up Adam Lambert and the last-girl-standing this season, rocker Allison Iraheta, are all signed with record labels and scheduled to release albums this fall. And former Idol contestants with releases also scheduled for fall are Season 7 third runner-up Jason Castro and Season 5 finalist Bucky Covington.



Daughtry’s “Leave This Town”, due for release on July 14th, is a follow to the band’s Grammy nominated, 5x platinum debut album, is described as pushing even deeper into melodic rock. Many of the songs on this album, according to frontman Chris Daughtry, “reflect how where we’ve been determines where we are going.” And the first single, “No Surprise,” is co-written with Nickelback’s Chad Kroeger, and the album’s cover comes from a new song that Daughtry wrote with Steely called, “September.” Daughtry actually speaks about songs from the album on his official website: http://www.daughtryofficial.com/home

Billboard writes very flatteringly of the album: “It’s another record full of songs that make you want to roll down the car windows and bus a vocal cord or two while trying to match Daughtry’s gravelly wail.”



And Season Six Top 5 finalist Phil Stacey will come forth with his own album, “Into the Light” for fans. After a brief stint on the country music scene, Stacy, a former worship leader, presents contemporary Christian music album that celebrates faith and family.

“It’s understandable that people are quick to ask me about the musical side of what I do,” says Stacey on his website. “I enjoy talking about the music, too. In fact, I love it. But the biggest hope I have is that what I do will help draw people to God—whether that’s through the songs I write, how I conduct myself on stage, or more importantly, the ways I relate to other people. Everything I did with American Idol has readied me for this platform and this album.”

The first single, “You’re Not Shaken”, is already being played on Christian radio stations. The release date is Aug. 25. Fans can listen to Stacey’s sound at his website: http://philstacey.com



American Idol Season Six runner-up Blake Lewis’ electro-pop album, “Heartbreak on Vinal”, has a release date of Oct. 6th – and the first single, “Sad Song”, will hit the airwaves this month. “’Heartbreak on Vinal’” is the culmination of over 10 years in the dance scene – the music that gets me out onto the dance floor to lose my inhibition,” Blake said in a press release. “The title is an ode to all the record stores that have been closing down due to my industry eating itself. These are the stores that brought inspiration to all of us music lovers and have led me to make the music I create today.” Sphere: Related Content

MATT GIRAUD'S TALENT -- OR SENSE OF HUMOR -- OR BOTH

Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL KRIS ALLEN TO APPEAR ON CONAN O'BRIEN

American Idol Kris Allen will appear on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien on July 15th, it has been announced.

Allen, who was crowned the 2009 American Idol in May, is currently a headliner of the American Idol whirlwind tour of 50 cities throughout the US. His passionate version of "Heartless" -- and his show favorite of "Ain't No Sunshine" have been garnering cheers and standing ovations from fans of his easy style. And the highlight of Allen's tour numbers is a captivating rendition of The Beatles' "Hey Jude."

There has been no word on what song/songs Allen will perform on The Tonight Show. Sphere: Related Content

ALLISON IRAHETA POWERFUL ON AMERICAN IDOL TOUR

American Idol sixth place finisher Anoop Desai opined that rocker Allison Iraheta has one of the strongest sets on the new 50-city American Idol whirlwind tour.

A highlight of Iraheta performances is a gritty, Janis Joplin-like "Cry Baby" -- which she also performed during the American Idol competition. And she hits two other songs, Pink's "So What" and Heart's "Barracuda" out of the ballpark.

"She sings, and I don't believe that's coming out of her," Desai told eonline.



In some ways the Idol tour is easier for Iraheta than the regular season competition. "You're nervous on the show because you have these four guys who are going to tell me how much I suck in front of so many people," she explained, "but with the tour, I know there are a lot of people out there who voted for me."



Desai said that before the Idol Tour's initial performance in Portland on July 5th, "It was sort of an eerie calm. I was more anxious than I was nervous. Once I got out there onstage, the energy of the crowd kept me going. It was easy to perform for everyone because they really want to hear you. To stand in front of that many people an be appreciated and do well was just great. We're lucky our first show went really well."

Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL 2002 RUNNER-UP JUSTIN GUARINI ON NEW ALBUM

American Idol 2002 runner-up Justin Guarini is on center stage with Philadelphia based Drivetime in a new jazz album, ‘Reflections’, that is scheduled to be released next month.

The Philadelphia based jazz sextet and Guarini, as lead vocalist, perform a collection of classics ranging from ‘What You Won’t Do’ to ‘Let’s Stay Together.’

“Drivetime is a rock-solid band that has been working hard on the East Coast jazz scene for a couple of years,” said Guarini. “It was an absolute pleasure to work with them on the project. ‘What You Won’t Do’ is a classic tune that I grew up with, and I jumped at the opportunity to record when … asked.”

Rick Denzien of Slot-1Studio, who recorded and mixed the new release, said, “Reflections has the honest sound of real instruments, human feel and human taste.” Sphere: Related Content

SIMON AND PAULA ARE NOMINEES FOR BEST REALITY PERSONALITY

Two American Idol judges are among nominees in the Zap2It poll for naming the Best Reality Personality.

Simon Cowell, noted for his tell-it-like-it-is judging style, and Paula Abdul, who sweetly tries to say something nice about every contestant, perfectly compliment each other on the American Idol television show and are the show's representatives in the contest.

Cowell was leading all contestants at about 10 p.m. on Tuesday with about 19.4 percent of the votes.

In total, there are sixteen nominees in the Best Reality Personality category. In addition to Cowell and Abdul, the nominees include Jeff Probst, Survivor; Tim Gunn, Project Runway; Rob and Amber, Survivor and The Amazing Race; Tyra Banks, America's Next Top Model; Flavor Flav, The Flavor of Love and Jessica Simpson, Newlyweds: Nick & Jessica.

Also nominated for the award are Paris Hilton, The Simple Life; Cat Deeley, So You Think You Can Dance; Janice Dickinson, Multiple; Bret Michaels, Rock of Love; Phil Keoghan, The Amazing Race; J. Alexander, America's Next Top Model; Will Kirby, Big Brother 2 and Kathy Griffin, My Life on the D-List. Sphere: Related Content

KARA DioGUARDI AND MIKE McCUDDY MARRY IN A DOWNEAST FISHING VILLAGE CHURCH

Beautiful in her Vera Wang wedding gown, American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi married Maine contractor Mike McCuddy in an intimate church ceremony in the Downeast fishing village of Prospect Harbor.

“I felt great,” DioGuardi told an MTV reporter. “What was most unbelievable about the experience was when I looked out at the church and saw these people that were so important to me and Mike, who were there for us. It was pretty powerful. I was very emotional, and I’m not somebody who breaks down and cries.”

She also marveled the good luck of scheduling the wedding for what turned out to be an incredibly beautiful and comfortable day. “It has been raining in Maine for 60 days,” she explained.

DioGuardi also claims that when the couple met, it was “love at first sight.” That meeting occurred, according to reports, when DioGuardi went to complain that a house that McCuddy was building next to hers was too close.

Following that meeting, the couple dated for about a year and a-half before McCuddy asked her to marry him while they vacationed in Mexico to celebrate her 38th birthday on December 8th.

“I was in, of course, my thermal smiley-face pajamas that one of my best friends gave me for Christmas,” she recalled of the day that McCuddy, a former school teacher turned general contractor, proposed.

Initially, she said, McCuddy had worried that he would not be comfortable in her Hollywood lifestyle. But DioGuardi, who grew up in New Rochelle, NY, said that, in fact, “I have no Hollywood life, believe me. I’m working 18-hour days, going home and catching a ‘Law & Order’ episode and calling him at night.”

None of the American Idol cast was reportedly at the wedding, but the guests included the couples family and closest friends, according to Scott Nurse Sr. who performed the ceremony at the United Methodist Church. Among attendees was DioGuardi’s father, former New York Congressman Joseph DioGuardi.

“They are absolutely in love,” said Nurse told US Weekly. “When I told him (McCuddy) that he could kiss the bride, everybody cheered. It was a very close, small family-type service.”

When DioGuardi was asked about her fellow American Idol cast, she explained that she could not visualize them in Prospect Harbor. “I can’t really see Simon Cowell landing in Prospect Harbor. I don’t think that soul happen,” she said.

In addition to her stint as an American Idol judge, DioGuardi is known as a music producer and composer of songs that have been recorded by the likes of , Celine Dion, Gwen Stefani, Faith Hill and former American Idol Kelly Clarkson. Sphere: Related Content

PAULA ABDUL HAS BEEN INVITED BACK TO JUDGE AMERICAN IDOL -- IS HOPEFUL THAT SHE WILL RETURN

The American Idol television show has invited Paula Abdul back as a judge for the next season and beyond – and Abdul says that she is really hopeful that she will return, according to the Associated Press.



“I will probably be back,” she predicted. "What would Simon do without me? … I am very proud of what I brought to the show from day one and helped build an empire.”

Abdul’s contract extended through the eighth season and has not yet been renewed. But Abdul said that the show has invited her back, and she is optimistic that a deal can be struck that will keep her judging the vocal competition for the show’s duration.

There had been some speculation that Kara DioGuardi, who was a judge for the first time during the last season, might be a replacement for Abdul.

Currently Abdul is working on “Drop Dead Diva,” a role in which she plays herself as a judge.

“I was able to fit it in my schedule before heavy duty work,” Abdul explained. But she said that the pilot is “charming as can be. It has magical pixie dust spread all over it.”

Paula Abdul Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL TOUR THRILLS FANS IN PORTLAND

A bit of glitz, glitter – and a whole lot of pop-rock and ballads from American Idol Kris Allen and the top 10 finalists of the popular television show had fans screaming and cheering on the opening night of the show’s whirlwind cross-country tour for 2009.

There was no question who were the stars of the show – the newly crowned American Idol Allen and first runner-up rocker Adam Lambert!

The show began with the first Idol eliminated, Michael Sarver, singing a catchy “I’m In Love With A Girl” which he dedicated to his wife, Tiffany. Megan Joy performed, “Put Your Records On,” followed by Scott MacIntyre sitting behind his piano for “A Thousand Miles.” Anoop swayed to his “My Prerogative,” while Matt Giraud was a tremendous crowd-pleaser with his piano heavy “Hard to Handle,” followed by heavy fan request, “Georgia On My Mind.”

Last girl standing in the competition Allison Iraheta was every bit the rocker that she was as a contestant -- with her deep raspy voice drawing cheers for “So What,” “Cry Baby,” and “Barracuda.”

And Danny Gokey, who made it into the top-three in the singing competition performed “P.Y.T.,” “Maria Maria,” “What Hurts The Most," and a tremendous rendition of Rascal Flatts’ “My Wish.”

The fans could not get enough of their favorite two, the winner and runner-up in the competition – and the applause turned to the sound of thunder for these two top vote-getters.

Lambert gave fans just what they expected – high-energy performances, tight pants, and his trademark pitch-perfect falcetto wail. Highlighting Lambert’s stage-time was a tribute to David Bowie. Lambert’s song list: “Whole Lotta Love," "Starlight," "Mad World," "Slow Ride with Allison Iraheta, “Life on Mars," "Fame, and "Let’s Dance.”

The thrill of the crowd mirrored the excitement of the 4th of July fireworks when Allen performed. In contrast to the crowd, Allen was the same unassuming “boy-next-door” that America fell in love with during the competition. The highlights of his numbers were a plaintive version of The Beatles’ “Hey Jude” and a repeat of his competition favorite, “Ain’t No Sunshine.” Other Allen numbers were his single, “No Boundaries,” “Heartless”, “Bright Lights” and “Don’t Stop Believing.” Sphere: Related Content

JUDGE KARA DioGUARDI IS MARRYING MAINE MAN IN COASTAL CEREMONY

American Idol judge Kara DioGuardi will marry Maine contractor Mike McCuddy, 34, today in scenic Bar Harbor, according to radar.online.

"Kara had her rehearsal dinner Sunday night in a private restaurant on the grounds of the Bar Harbor Club, and the wedding will be there tomorrow," it was reported.

The couple fell "in love at first sight," a bit surprising given that they met when McCuddy was building a house next to her two-story summer place overlooking Prospect Harbor -- and she went over to complain, according to sources. The proposal came on DioGuardi's 38th birthday in December.

Among those attending the wedding will be DioGuardi's father, former New York state Republican Rep. Joseph J. DioGuardi.

McCuddy, who was formerly a school teacher, has a daughter -- and DioGuardi's father is reportedly hoping that the couple will soon add more children to the family.

American Judge Kara DioGuari About To Marry In Seaside Wedding Sphere: Related Content

KRIS ALLEN IN TOUR REHEARSALS

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KY GIRL KILLED ENROUTE TO AMERICAN IDOL AUDITION

Police are investigating whether road rage was responsible for the tragic death of a Kentucky girl as she followed her dream to become the next American Idol, according to Kentucky.com

MaRhonda Roberts and three members of her family, all from Midway, had planned their Florida vacation around American Idol auditions in Orlando. They were just 16 miles away from the Florida border when their car struck another vehicle and burst into flames, killing all four passengers on July 2, 2009, Kentucky.com reported. It was further revealed that Lowndes County Coroner Bill Watson confirmed that police in Georgia are investigating whether road rage contributed to the indicent."

MaRhonda Collins and her family had planned their Florida vacation around the American Idol auditions being held in Orlano. She had tried out for the show last year, but was not picked, a family member revealed.

At 2:30 a.m. on the day of auditions, the family’s car hit another vehicle just 16 miles north of the Florida line. The car reportedly burst into flames, and Collins and other passengers died. Passengers in the other cars were not reportedly not injured.

Traveling with Collins were Jerome Roberts, 40, Cheryl Collins, 41, and Auguste Roberts, 11.

Collins, was described as an “always happy” girl who loved to sing. She graduated from Scott County High School had recently been accepted at the University of Kentucky where she intended to major in biology in preparation for medical school. Sphere: Related Content

UNSIGNED IDOL CONTESTANTS HOPE TOUR WILL LEAD TO RECORD DEALS

While American Idol Kris Allen, and contestants Adam Lambert and Allison Iraheta enjoy the comfort of signed recording contracts and CDs due out in the fall, other Idol contestants are pinning career hopes on garnering record label attention and deals during the popular show’s 50-city whirlwind tour that kicked off in Portland last night.

Danny Gokey, reportedly in the midst of meetings with record labels, hopes for a contract “the quicker, the better.”

But most of the other contestants are in various stages of the waiting game, anticipating that the Idol tour will ignite the interest of recording company execs and bring contract offers onto the table.

Michael Sarver, first of the ten finalists eliminate from the show, said that he has some options to consider, and Scott MacIntyre, who has a recording studio, has started to work on his own record.

But several of the other contestants said that they expect the Tour to be their platform for displaying their talent and drawing record label interest. Matt Giraud, who performs a piano-enriched version of “Georgia On My Mind” on the tour, is hopeful for a record deal and “waiting to see what will happen.” Lil Rounds believes, “the tour is a great showcase. … I’m thinking after the tour is when we’ll see something happen.

Anoop Desai has no CD deals yet, but he views the tour a part of the audition process. And Megan Joy said, “We’re supposed to find out if anything is lined up for us this month.”

The signed Idol contestants are breathing easy. And the unsigned contestants are too busy to be waiting by the phone from calls from record execs – instead pumping out rock and ballad songs on the Idol tour and hoping they are good enough to end this gig with contracts signed on the dotted line. Sphere: Related Content

AMERICAN IDOL TOUR STARTS JULY 5th IN PORTLAND

Excitement is in the air! It’s the countdown – the countdown to the beginning of American Idol Tour 2009!!

All top ten contestants of the popular television talent show are rehearsing day and night to get their acts perfected by the tour launch date of July 5th, the day after Independence Day, in Portland, Oregon.

A bus loaded with seven boys has that group feeling a bit “cramped.” But the three girls in their bus have plenty of room to spread out. “We got lucky,” laughed Allison Iraheta.

The contestants revealed that they will perform in their order of elimination – so first up will be Michael Sarver who will perform two numbers, followed by Megan Joy who will sing a “skanky” rendition of Amy Winehouse’s ‘Tears Dry on their Own.’ Scott MacIntyre confides that he will be spending a whole lot of time sitting at his piano, and Matt Giraud is thrilled to respond to huge fan requests that he do a rendition of “Georgia On My Mind.”

Anoop Desai, who looks forward to looking out over large crowds, will show off his talents with the ballad, ‘My Prerogative.” And Lil Rounds enthuses that she is lucky enough to have the leading ladies of R&B on her card – with a heavy dose of dancing.

Fans of the last girl standing in the competition, redhead Allison Iraheta, will have a treat – as the rocker performs three songs, including a throaty , “Cry Baby.” Among second runner-up Danny Gokey’s has the honor of singing Michael Jackson’s Pretty Young Thing. And first runner-up Adam Lambert expects to wow audiences with a pretty electric David Bowie medley.

And finally American Idol Kris Allen takes center stage, treating his fans to five songs – the highlight of which might he his performance of the Beatles, ‘Hey Jude’.
So the troops are nearly ready to hit the road. And they are eager and excited to jump into their buses and finally get out into America to meet and entertain their fans. Sphere: Related Content