When we heard Jena Irene Ascuitto was going to do “I Love Rock N’ Roll” by Joan Jett for 80’s week, we thought it was going to be a great song choice for her. What we did not expect, however, was the very interesting and unique twists she’d put on the song!
While Jena’s rendition gradually ramps up into the rock edge we all know and love about this song, it starts off with a softer, jazzier tone that makes your ears perk up and go hmmmmm?
Jena Irene promised she’d go back to the piano this week, but we didn’t have any clue she’d decide to do it with a song like this! We like the combo and think this is one of Jena’s strongest performances yet, despite some negative criticism from the American Idol judges.
You can also take a listen to the studio version of Jena’s song choice this week below.
Vote for Jena Irene:
- Text 8 to 83676
- Call 1-855-4-IDOL-08 (1-855-443-6508)
- SuperVote online at AmericanIdol.com or via app
>> Watch all the American Idol Top 8 performances in our full recap of Wednesday night’s show!
She looks like Gina Gershon + Gonzo
Now that is an interesting mash-up…
I hated it. She mumbled through the first half and shrieked through the rest.
When I hear a song re-do, especially a song that I really like… I just can’t reprogram to a newer version….. just can’t! Rolling in the Deep is a great song – I love it –just the way it is — did not like Jena’s version — same for ‘I Love R&R” — just can’t change a classic.
loved this performance!!!! way to go jena amazing voice!!!!!!!!!!!! #jenanation!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jena’s done an Arrows cover. “I Love Rock N Roll” was originally released by The Arrows in 1975 produced by Mickie Most on RAK records UK. The Arrows recorded the original version and wrote the song. Their 4th single release, the song got the Arrows their own weekly TV series which is how Jett became aware of the song, watching the Arrows show while she was on tour with the Runaways in 1976. So, Jett’s is a cover, just like Jena Irene’s is a cover. Jena’s sounds nothing like Jett’s cover.