Usually, my “American Idol” favorites never make it all that far. This year, though, the two performers that I have been pulling for and voting for all along are the two finalists! Crystal Bowersox and Lee DeWyze.
Of the two, I’m not sure who I want, since I like them both a lot. Lee is a kind of diffident, shy guy, the sort who doesn’t make eye-contact when he talks, but he is a really fine contemporary singer. Crystal is an alternative, bluesey Bonnie-Rait-type singer with amazing chops. She never watched the show before, and she considered pulling out several times earlier. Neither come across as egotistic divas, nor as pop star stereotypes. Both are down-to-earth, non-assuming, and genuine musical artists. Critics have said this year’s contestants are bland, but I’m tired of the Idol big voiced over-projections and I appreciate these two in particular.
Who deserves to win? I’ll listen carefully to the final show next week. I’d have to give the talent edge to Crystal. But I’d be glad to have Lee win it.
Any opinions?