Last night on American Idol 2016, we said goodbye to Gianna Isabella and Olivia Rox, leaving us with the Top 8.
We got to see all 10 perform, but we’re only grading the Top 8 and those eight performances as a whole weren’t that great. There were some standouts, but also some pretty mediocre moments. Let’s take a look.
American Idol 2016 Report Card
Dalton Rapattoni, “Radioactive.” This was a good song choice for Dalton, but not great vocals. Of course he is a showman no matter what, so that counts for a lot, here, but I wish he was a better vocalist. He’ll be fine no matter how bland this performance was or how negative this report card is. I didn’t love him this week. Grade: C+
Lee Jean, “Use Somebody.” I’m having a hard time loving Lee because of his attitude, and this performance didn’t help. He barely sang and when he did he was shaky and pitchy. He needs to sing out so we can really hear his voice. Not great. Grade: C
Sonika Vaid, “Since U Been Gone.” This was a bold song choice, so she gets points for that. But this is a huge Kelly Clarkson song. It’s meant for a singer with a huge voice. And while she’s on her way, she’s no Kelly. It wasn’t a bad performance, but it wasn’t her best. Grade: B
MacKenzie Bourg, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” I love that he picked this song. I also love that he made it his own and put a whole new spin on it all while keeping it upbeat and dancey. I think MacKenzie will be safe again next week with this effort. Grade: A-
La’Porsha Renae, “Halo.” I was really disappointed when I heard this was what she was singing, but I was thrilled when she completely turned this song into one that can actually be performed by someone other than Beyonce. Very well-done. Grade: A
Trent Harmon, “When A Man Loves A Woman.” Well, we’ve never heard this song performed like his on American Idol. Trent is one of a kind and this was easily the best performance of the night. To me, Trent can do no wrong. Grade: A+
Tristan McIntosh, “Go Rest High On That Mountain.” I wasn’t sure about this song choice, but after the performance I understood it completely. I thought it was great to see her back behind the piano when it really matters. I still think she comes off bit robotic, but that was a good performance. Grade: A
Avalon Young, “Earned It.” I wasn’t shocked she was in the bottom three, but I’m glad it didn’t effect her performance. Her bold song choice turned out to be perfect for her. It reminded us how great her voice is and that when she’s in her comfort zone, she’s one of the best in the competition. Grade: A+