American Idol thoughts ...

The first of the final twelve was eliminated last night, and as disappointed as I'm sure Melissa McGhee was, forgetting lyrics at this point (especially when she knows she was way behind in terms of building a fan base) is an unforgiveable offense. It's clear that some of the internet goofs voting for the underdogs are able to sway results (evidenced by Kevin Covais not making the bottom three), but that won't last long.

But something occurred to me watching the last couple of shows. It's very clear right now who the producers want to win this thing, and it's just as clear as it was last season. They want a rocker; they want someone who will fill stadiums, not just small arenas. Chris Daughtry is "the chosen one", much like Bo Bice from last season. You can tell by the production values that go into their performances compared to the rest ofthe competitors. But as Carrie Underwood proved, you can't always push America to vote the way you want. As competitors are eliminated and their fans need to pick a new favorite (I think I'm the only one that votes for multiple different people each week), you can't always predict where those fans will go.

In fact, the producers have slightly more sway with America than the judges, given that despite trying to save McGhee from elimination with their praise, she just couldn't keep herself off the gallows. That brings me to another point. I'm starting to tire of the constant criticism of the way the contestants are styled. Like Bucky said ... he didn't CHOOSE to look that way, the producers and stylists did ... and to criticise him (and others) for those fashion choices feels contrived, and yet another way to try to usher people out early.

My picks? I must admit, I have the McPhee-ver. Katherine McPhee and Chris Daughtry will be the final two. I couldn't tell you who's going to win, though.