The Jennifer Hudson Show audience doubled as a collective of songwriters on the daytime talk show’s latest episode. Alongside special guest Billy Porter, the host engaged the studio in a game of “You Say It, We’ll Sing It,” turning random suggestion responses from guests into impromptu songs.
When you have a voice as rich and soulful as Hudson or Porter, you can make almost anything sound good. An audience member’s instruction to their cat to stay off of the furniture was flipped into a choir-ready refrain from the pair,...
When you have a voice as rich and soulful as Hudson or Porter, you can make almost anything sound good. An audience member’s instruction to their cat to stay off of the furniture was flipped into a choir-ready refrain from the pair,...
- 12/6/2022
- by Larisha Paul
- Rollingstone.com
Jennifer Hudson and fellow American Idol alum Adam Lambert busted out a serious high-brow, deep cut duet on The Jennifer Hudson Show: the classic aria from Giacomo Puccini’s opera Turandot, “Nessun dorma.”
As Lambert explains in a brief interview before the performance, he learned the song in an opera course he took in high school, describing the class as “really good training,” similar to a dancer studying a bit of ballet. And though he learned a lot, he mostly left that world behind.
Then, this summer, Lambert and Queen were touring Italy,...
As Lambert explains in a brief interview before the performance, he learned the song in an opera course he took in high school, describing the class as “really good training,” similar to a dancer studying a bit of ballet. And though he learned a lot, he mostly left that world behind.
Then, this summer, Lambert and Queen were touring Italy,...
- 10/19/2022
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Exclusive: Kristin Chenoweth (Schmigadoon!), Kenny Ortega (Julie and the Phantoms) and producers Alan Powell, Steve Barnett and Vicky Patel of Monarch Media are teaming for the docuseries 1300 Miles to Broadway. Inspired by Chenoweth’s Broadway Bootcamp, the series introduces 8th to 12th graders to the world of performing arts through master classes in acting, singing and dancing, and goes on the emotional journey with them as they prepare for a future as performers.
Chenoweth launched Broadway Bootcamp at the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center in her Oklahoma hometown of Broken Arrow in 2015, to give talented local kids a taste of real Broadway talent, working with them one-on-one. She brought Broadway director, actor and producer Richard Jay-Alexander into the fold four years ago to strengthen the program. All editions of the camp have taken place in-person with the exception of 2021’s, which was held virtually amidst the pandemic, with kids from 33 states and 8 countries participating.
Chenoweth launched Broadway Bootcamp at the Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center in her Oklahoma hometown of Broken Arrow in 2015, to give talented local kids a taste of real Broadway talent, working with them one-on-one. She brought Broadway director, actor and producer Richard Jay-Alexander into the fold four years ago to strengthen the program. All editions of the camp have taken place in-person with the exception of 2021’s, which was held virtually amidst the pandemic, with kids from 33 states and 8 countries participating.
- 9/8/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
If only it was acceptable in life to publicly boo everything we didn’t like — it would definitely make going to the movies more fun, and a lot louder.
Fortunately, the Lythgoe Family Panto is keeping the U.K.’s most raucous holiday season tradition alive with “A Snow White Christmas,” which opens Friday for a limited engagement until Dec. 22 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California.
“The best thing about panto is that it’s an interactive experience for everybody — the kids can come and they don’t have to be quiet in their seats,” Disney Channel star Olivia Sanabia, who plays the title role of Snow White, explains. “They can boo the bad guys, cheer for the good ones, and really express themselves. They feel like they’re part of the story and the experience. I love that instant gratification of knowing what the audience thinks.”
The...
Fortunately, the Lythgoe Family Panto is keeping the U.K.’s most raucous holiday season tradition alive with “A Snow White Christmas,” which opens Friday for a limited engagement until Dec. 22 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California.
“The best thing about panto is that it’s an interactive experience for everybody — the kids can come and they don’t have to be quiet in their seats,” Disney Channel star Olivia Sanabia, who plays the title role of Snow White, explains. “They can boo the bad guys, cheer for the good ones, and really express themselves. They feel like they’re part of the story and the experience. I love that instant gratification of knowing what the audience thinks.”
The...
- 12/13/2019
- by Debbie Emery
- The Wrap
Adam Lambert, the only “American Idol” contestant to ever receive a standing ovation from grumpy judge Simon Cowell, will return to the show on April 28 to mentor the Top 8 contestants. If you haven’t guessed already, the runner-up on Season 8 will tutor the hopefuls when they tackle Queen‘s catalog.
And, even better, we will get to enjoy a Lambert performance on May 19 on the finale show.
Lambert, who secured a spot on “Idol” in 2009 by singing “Bohemian Rhapsody,” ended up performing with Queen on that year’s finale when Kris Allen was a winner. Even he said at the time, “Adam deserved this.” But the singer whose version of “Mad World” that season was one for the ages has gone on to be the touring frontman for Queen + Adam Lambert.
See Recap: ‘American Idol’s’ Top 14 is cut down to a Top 10
The producers of the long-running reality competition...
And, even better, we will get to enjoy a Lambert performance on May 19 on the finale show.
Lambert, who secured a spot on “Idol” in 2009 by singing “Bohemian Rhapsody,” ended up performing with Queen on that year’s finale when Kris Allen was a winner. Even he said at the time, “Adam deserved this.” But the singer whose version of “Mad World” that season was one for the ages has gone on to be the touring frontman for Queen + Adam Lambert.
See Recap: ‘American Idol’s’ Top 14 is cut down to a Top 10
The producers of the long-running reality competition...
- 4/22/2019
- by Susan Wloszczyna
- Gold Derby
Adam Lambert famously launched his career on “American Idol” a decade ago performing a brilliant audition of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.” He wrapped that amazing eighth season performing with the band on the season finale, and years later earned his current spot as the front man touring as Queen + Adam Lambert.
On April 28, Lambert comes full circle as he steps into the mentor role guiding the top eight “Idol” finalists as they each perform a song from the Queen catalog.
Viewers will get a bonus dose of Lambert, as on May 19 as he is set to perform on the season finale of the ABC show.
Shortly after hearing the news, former “Idol” musical director and vocal coach Michael Orland, who nurtured Lambert and other contestants for 16 seasons with the show, took to Twitter to offer congratulations. “Hey @adamlambert I should be a psychic. I said a month ago (let’s...
On April 28, Lambert comes full circle as he steps into the mentor role guiding the top eight “Idol” finalists as they each perform a song from the Queen catalog.
Viewers will get a bonus dose of Lambert, as on May 19 as he is set to perform on the season finale of the ABC show.
Shortly after hearing the news, former “Idol” musical director and vocal coach Michael Orland, who nurtured Lambert and other contestants for 16 seasons with the show, took to Twitter to offer congratulations. “Hey @adamlambert I should be a psychic. I said a month ago (let’s...
- 4/20/2019
- by Michele Amabile Angermiller
- Variety Film + TV
After completing a 14 year, 15 season run of being the pianist, arranger, vocal coach and associate musical director of “American Idol,” Michael Orland is back in the hot seat for the ABC reboot — and feels reborn.
“Are you loving this new season as much as I am?” Orland asks Variety.
The truth is, Orland relishes his role assisting the kids through auditions, Hollywood Week, and now the live episodes, which will air every Sunday night through next month’s May 20 and 21 season finale and the crowning of the new Idol.
“I literally love these kids. I really am having so much fun with this Top 10 right now,” he says. “Was I disappointed in the results? Yes, I thought there were a couple of people missing, even from Top 24, that I was sad to see go. But, that’s how attached we become as the vocal coaches. We become so attached to the contestants,...
“Are you loving this new season as much as I am?” Orland asks Variety.
The truth is, Orland relishes his role assisting the kids through auditions, Hollywood Week, and now the live episodes, which will air every Sunday night through next month’s May 20 and 21 season finale and the crowning of the new Idol.
“I literally love these kids. I really am having so much fun with this Top 10 right now,” he says. “Was I disappointed in the results? Yes, I thought there were a couple of people missing, even from Top 24, that I was sad to see go. But, that’s how attached we become as the vocal coaches. We become so attached to the contestants,...
- 4/29/2018
- by Michele Amabile Angermiller
- Variety Film + TV
Last night all eyes were on New York City and the 71st Tony Awards, but in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma at the Kristin Chenoweth Theater at Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center the hometown girl hosted a Tony viewing party to launch her Broadway Bootcamp this week. In attendance were 45 students who will participate in a series of classes and performance led by industry professionals who flew in and are arriving for the week's activities. They include, fresh from her Isabelle Stevenson Award win, Broadway's Baayork Lee, Tony winner, Faith Prince, Tony nominees, John Tartaglia and Lara Teeter, director, Richard Jay-Alexander, music directors, Michael Orland and Mary-Mitchell Campbell, Broadway photographer, Bruce Glikas, and even Craig Burns from Telsey Casting who will be participating via satellite.
- 6/12/2017
- by BroadwayWorld TV
- BroadwayWorld.com
Laguna Playhouse Artistic Director Ann E. Wareham and Lythgoe Family Panto presentaspecial holiday event, Cozi Zuehlsdorff 'Dolphin Tale' Films, Joely Fisher Broadway Cabaret, 'Desperate Housewives', Barry Pearl 'Grease', The Book of Mormon's Benjamin Schrader, Jeff Sumner Genie in Disney's Aladdin-a Musical Spectacular, 'American Idol' finalist Vonzell Solomon and Conor Guzman Pasadena Playhouse The Fantasticks starring in Sleeping Beauty And Her Winter Knight, book by Kris Lythgoe, choreography by Spencer Liff, musical supervisor Michael Orland, musical direction by Michael Sobie and directed by Linda Goodrich.
- 12/9/2016
- by BWW News Desk
- BroadwayWorld.com
Laguna Playhouse Artistic Director Ann E. Wareham and Lythgoe Family Panto have announced a very special holiday event, Cozi Zuehlsdorff 'Dolphin Tale' Films, Joely Fisher Broadway Cabaret, 'Desperate Housewives', Barry Pearl 'Grease', The Book of Mormon's Benjamin Schrader, Jeff Sumner Genie in Disney's Aladdin-a Musical Spectacular, 'American Idol' finalist Vonzell Solomon and Conor Guzman Pasadena Playhouse The Fantasticks starring in Sleeping Beauty And Her Winter Knight, book by Kris Lythgoe, choreography by Spencer Liff, musical supervisor Michael Orland, musical direction by Michael Sobie and directed by Linda Goodrich.
- 10/25/2016
- by BWW News Desk
- BroadwayWorld.com
Much like Chumbawamba’s earworm chorus, Jennifer Lopez may get knocked down, but she gets up again.
“If I fall flat on my ass,” the American Idol judge told the wide-eyed hopefuls of Season 15’s Hollywood Week Group Rounds, “I bounce right back up, and I kill the rest of that performance.”
VideosReality Check: Did American Idol Flub Its Final Audition Ever? Plus: Heated Debate Over Week 3 Standouts!
Look, while no one’s going to confuse Jenny From the Block’s raw vocals for Jessie J or Nicole Scherzinger or (blasphemy alert) even Patti Labelle, let’s not pretend the...
“If I fall flat on my ass,” the American Idol judge told the wide-eyed hopefuls of Season 15’s Hollywood Week Group Rounds, “I bounce right back up, and I kill the rest of that performance.”
VideosReality Check: Did American Idol Flub Its Final Audition Ever? Plus: Heated Debate Over Week 3 Standouts!
Look, while no one’s going to confuse Jenny From the Block’s raw vocals for Jessie J or Nicole Scherzinger or (blasphemy alert) even Patti Labelle, let’s not pretend the...
- 1/29/2016
- TVLine.com
"American Idol" returned on Wednesday (January 7) night to somewhat tepid ratings and with a one-hour episode that was almost entirely devoid of likely breakout talent. Fox posted the first episode online for critics and then wisely posted the second, which is airing tonight. The move was wise because, as you'll soon see, Thursday's episode is much, much better. There are three or four contestants who appeared on Thursday's episode and seem like plausible Finalists. So click through and follow along as I recap the highlights and lowlights. [Key Warning: It turned out yesterday that the Fox-provided screener for the premiere wasn't exactly what aired. It was mostly what aired, but apparently I saw some singing viewers didn't get. And vice versa. So take this recap, especially the time-code, with a grain of salt. Hopefully the people I liked will make it to air.] 00:00:00 Is it my screener or are we starting with some righteous "Inception"-style bass? I guess that adds some drama to the reminder that "Idol" makes stars and that it's about the kids, not gimmicks or judges. But really, it's making me believe that "Idol" is all about the bass. 00:02:00 We're beginning again in Nashville. The judges want to find a superstar.
- 1/9/2015
- by Daniel Fienberg
- Hitfix
Performer Erich Bergen Jersey Boys - The Movie, Madam Secretary will perform a live, interactive, one hour online concert through ConcertWindow.com on Sunday, August 17th at 3pm Est. Accompanying Erich will be Michael Orland, who has served as the associate musical director of Fox's American Idol for the past 12 years. During the performance, Erich will perform songs from his latest album, Never Give Up, as well as songs from Jersey Boys. Additionally, fans will be able request songs during the completely unrehearsed, improvised show.
- 8/15/2014
- by BWW News Desk
- BroadwayWorld.com
Perhaps one of the most annoying critiques to cross an "American Idol" judge's lips is the dreaded "you were much better in rehearsal." That's nice and all, but it's the live show that counts, since that's what America sees. Zap2it sat in on the "Idol" Season 13 rehearsal for Top 9's "I'm With the Band" week. Here are our major takeaways from the two-hour affair.
- The final dress rehearsal, held around five hours before the show goes live, is pretty much an exact run-through of what you'll see later in the evening. The contestants were, for the most part, wearing whatever they wore during their performances. Ryan Seacrest, in jeans and a button-down, did abbreviated versions of each of his hosting standups, and the contestants each got one final run-through of their song with the band and the staging. The only difference was the lighting -- the studio remained brightly lit the whole time.
- The final dress rehearsal, held around five hours before the show goes live, is pretty much an exact run-through of what you'll see later in the evening. The contestants were, for the most part, wearing whatever they wore during their performances. Ryan Seacrest, in jeans and a button-down, did abbreviated versions of each of his hosting standups, and the contestants each got one final run-through of their song with the band and the staging. The only difference was the lighting -- the studio remained brightly lit the whole time.
- 3/27/2014
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
Being an "American Idol" contestant is incredibly nerve-wracking -- even when there are no stakes involved. For the show's 13th season, producers have added a new element into the final week of preliminary competition: a workshop/boot camp with judge-turned-mentor Randy Jackson.
To experience this new round firsthand, I spent a cloudy January day going through each station in the "Idol" bootcamp. I wasn't even a real contestant, but it was one of the most terrifying professional experiences I've ever had. (Putting things into perspective: I spent the day at a luxurious beachside Southern California resort on the set of one of my favorite television shows. This is clearly a first world problem.)
I knew I'd have to sing eventually. I was sort of prepared, in that I sang in high school choir and I am acquainted with the inside of a karaoke booth. But I wasn't actually ready to...
To experience this new round firsthand, I spent a cloudy January day going through each station in the "Idol" bootcamp. I wasn't even a real contestant, but it was one of the most terrifying professional experiences I've ever had. (Putting things into perspective: I spent the day at a luxurious beachside Southern California resort on the set of one of my favorite television shows. This is clearly a first world problem.)
I knew I'd have to sing eventually. I was sort of prepared, in that I sang in high school choir and I am acquainted with the inside of a karaoke booth. But I wasn't actually ready to...
- 2/17/2014
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Zap2It - From Inside the Box
The Pasadena Playhouse Sheldon Epps, Artistic Director and Charles Dillingham, Interim Executive Director and Lythgoe Family Productions, announced today casting and the creative team for A Snow White Christmas, featuring Ariana Grande Nickelodeons Victorious as Snow White, an on-screen appearance by Neil Patrick Harris as The Magic Mirror and Charlene Tilton Dallas as The Wicked Queen. This inaugural Panto at The Playhouse production of A Snow White Christmas will be directed by Bonnie Lythgoe So You Think You Can Dance with choreography by Spencer Liff Emmy nominee So You Think You Can Dance and musical direction by Michael Orland American Idol. Performances will begin December 13 through December 23, with a gala press opening night on Wednesday, December 12, 2012, at 700 p.m. at The Pasadena Playhouse.
- 9/7/2012
- by BWW News Desk
- BroadwayWorld.com
On Tuesday, September 18, 2012, Pettiford will release her second solo album, Velvet Sky, a collection of original lullabies. She brings a tenderness and wealth of emotion to the thirteen tracks on this new album, all of which were written especially for her by two legendary writing teams Ron Abel musicChuck Steffan lyrics and Michael Orland musicJamie Wooten lyrics. The songs range from playful numbers that are meant to inspire play between parents and their children, as well as softer tracks to lull babies of all ages to sleep.
- 7/10/2012
- by BWW News Desk
- BroadwayWorld.com
When they competed on American Idol, season 2's Kimberley Locke and season 8’s Scott MacIntyre were mentored by some of the top people in the music industry. Now, life comes full circle as the pair of top 10 finalists become mentors themselves, joining a team of Idol insiders to coach the next generation of talented singers at “Audition Star,” a summer camp to be held June 25 through 29 at Atlantis, Paradise Island, the popular resort in the Bahamas. Locke and MacIntyre will join three Idol production staffers -- vocal coach Peisha McPhee, associate musical director Michael Orland and stylist Miles
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- 5/5/2012
- by THR Staff
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
American Idol vocal coach Debra Byrd will not take part in the show when season 11 live episodes begin airing next week. Although the longtime advisor has been shown during auditions and the Hollywood Week rounds, according to show sources, Byrd will step aside for the rest of the season so that in-house mentor and Interscope Geffen A&M chairman Jimmy Iovine can bring in his own people. Video: 'American Idol' Class Picture: Behind the Scenes "Her role has been diminished," says an Idol insider. Associate musical director Michael Orland, who's been with the show since 2002, and vocal coach Peisha
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- 2/24/2012
- by Shirley Halperin
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
President Obama's campaigners have always had their finger on the pulse of America's young people. Just check out that "wish list" of celebrities they hoped would publicly endorse and campaign on behalf of the Potus; all of the cool kids are there, including Jay-z, Vampire Weekend, Janelle Monáe, Neil Patrick Harris, Anne Hathaway, Jack Johnson, the Jonas Brothers, Mila Kunis, Blake Lively, Lea Michele, Sarah Jessica Parker, the Roots, Wilco and Arcade Fire, among many others.
(We secretly suspect Obama's hot young speechwriter Jon Favreau had something to do with the list. We know the president likes himself some Jay-z and Wilco, but Favs strikes us more the Vampire Weekend/Arcade Fire/Jack Johnson type. Would you agree?)
So it should come as no surprise that they're taking one of Obama's most viral moments and transforming it into an even bigger boon to the campaign. Recently, the president decided...
(We secretly suspect Obama's hot young speechwriter Jon Favreau had something to do with the list. We know the president likes himself some Jay-z and Wilco, but Favs strikes us more the Vampire Weekend/Arcade Fire/Jack Johnson type. Would you agree?)
So it should come as no surprise that they're taking one of Obama's most viral moments and transforming it into an even bigger boon to the campaign. Recently, the president decided...
- 1/23/2012
- by John Mitchell
- MTV Newsroom
'AI' associate music director Michael Orland tells MTV News in an exclusive that prez's pipes would get him to Hollywood Week.
By Jim Cantiello
President Barack Obama at the Apollo Theater on Thursday
Photo: Shahar Azran/WireImage
This week, "American Idol" kicked off its 11th season, and it appears even President Obama is getting into the spirit. On Thursday night at a fundraiser at the Apollo Theater, the commander in chief surprised a star-studded Harlem, New York, crowd by busting out a few measures of "AI" staple Al Green's "Let's Stay Together."
Obama's smooth singing voice impressed many — including the Rev. Al Green himself, who told TMZ that Obama "nailed it" — but does the leader of the free world have what it takes to make it on America's #1 singing competition?
"American Idol" associate music director and vocal coach Michael Orland certainly thinks so!
"I swear to you, if he auditioned...
By Jim Cantiello
President Barack Obama at the Apollo Theater on Thursday
Photo: Shahar Azran/WireImage
This week, "American Idol" kicked off its 11th season, and it appears even President Obama is getting into the spirit. On Thursday night at a fundraiser at the Apollo Theater, the commander in chief surprised a star-studded Harlem, New York, crowd by busting out a few measures of "AI" staple Al Green's "Let's Stay Together."
Obama's smooth singing voice impressed many — including the Rev. Al Green himself, who told TMZ that Obama "nailed it" — but does the leader of the free world have what it takes to make it on America's #1 singing competition?
"American Idol" associate music director and vocal coach Michael Orland certainly thinks so!
"I swear to you, if he auditioned...
- 1/20/2012
- MTV Music News
How quickly did Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina choose their first songs for the American Idol performance finale? Were they familiar with the songs their own Idols picked for them? How have they changed this season? What are the biggest differences between season 10 and the seasons before it? In the final entry of our ongoing behind-the-scenes series, American Idol associate music director and arranger Michael Orland answered these questions and more while discussing last night’s Top 2 performance finale with EW. (Vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd, who usually also contributes to this column, did not work with Scotty or Lauren this week.
- 5/25/2011
- by Adam B. Vary
- EW.com - PopWatch
American Idol's vocal coach has revealed that prompt action from the show's doctor allowed Lauren Alaina to sing in the final. Alaina, who is competing with Scotty McCreery for the Idol title, lost her voice during rehearsals for last night's live show but ultimately performed three songs as planned during the broadcast. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly's Inside TV blog, Michael Orland said: "These guys have not stopped singing [all season], and they're rehearsing for the finale... She'd just had it. "So the doctor came and saved the day. That happens to even the biggest stars in showbusiness. I think he gave her something to un-swell her vocal chords. "Whatever he gave her, it just numbs the vocal chords a little bit so she can get through it. I only know what the doctor said [during the show]." Orland, (more)...
- 5/25/2011
- by By Kate Goodacre
- Digital Spy
There was a lot of talk before tonight’s American Idol finale that the match up between Lauren Alaina and long standing front runner Scotty McCreery was low on real drama. That is, until an hour before the show was due to broadcast live to the east coast, when several Web reports surfaced claiming Lauren Alaina had fallen ill and second runner up Haley Reinhart was rehearsing to possibly replace her. As viewers of tonight’s show witnessed, Lauren did not have to drop out of the competition, but Idol’s on site physician did report on the air that...
- 5/25/2011
- by Adam B. Vary
- EW - Inside TV
Every season, right after the results show that determines American Idol's finalists, the last two contestants standing toss a coin with their faces pasted on each side. The winner gets to choose whether he or she wants to sing first or second for their last night of competition. According to Idol associate musical director Michael Orland, the order is not only strategically important, it can be decisive to winning the whole enchilada.
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Read More >...
- 5/20/2011
- by Deborah Starr Seibel
- TVGuide - Breaking News
Continuing our exclusive series, American Idol vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd and associate music director and arranger Michael Orland sat down with EW to discuss Wednesday night’s Top 3 performance show. For a decade, Byrd and Orland have been on the front lines with the contestants, from Hollywood Week to the grand finale in May. The two work with the contestants on their respective songs, helping them shine on the Idol stage and in front of a national TV audience. Click through to read their take on this week’s show, including how Haley got a Led Zeppelin song cleared for the program,...
- 5/19/2011
- by John Young
- EW.com - PopWatch
How did James, Haley, Scotty, and Lauren choose their songs this week? What was it like working with Lady Gaga? Did the unfamiliar songbook of Leiber and Stoller stymie the contestants? In our ongoing series, American Idol vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd and associate music director and arranger Michael Orland answered these questions and more while discussing last night’s Top 4 performance show with EW. For a decade, Byrd and Orland have been on the front lines with the contestants, from Hollywood Week to the grand finale in May. The two work with the contestants on their respective songs,...
- 5/12/2011
- by Adam B. Vary
- EW.com - PopWatch
Continuing our exclusive series, American Idol vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd and associate music director and arranger Michael Orland hopped on the phone with EW to discuss Wednesday night’s Top 5 performance show. For a decade, Byrd and Orland have been on the front lines with the contestants, from Hollywood Week to the grand finale in May. The two work with the contestants on their respective songs, helping them shine on the Idol stage and in front of a national TV audience. Click through to read their take on this week’s “Now & Then” show, including why Jacob took...
- 5/5/2011
- by Tanner Stransky
- EW.com - PopWatch
'You piece it together and it's like the jelly beans in a big jar,' 'Idol' castoff tells MTV News, with Jennifer Lopez as 'buttered popcorn' flavor.
By Gil Kaufman, with reporting by Jim Cantiello
Casey Abrams
Photo: MTV News
It's a lot to take in. Imagine being on TV for the first time in your life, in front of several hundred screaming fans in a Los Angeles studio and more than 20 million at home, and not only performing a cover of a song you may not even know, but listening to feedback on your work from three judges, mentor/ record industry legend Jimmy Iovine and the show's producers.
It can be a head-swimming proposition, but for just-booted "American Idol" bass-slapper Casey Abrams, filtering all of that information was not as hard as it sounds.
"I tended to listen to the coaches more," he said of the "Idol...
By Gil Kaufman, with reporting by Jim Cantiello
Casey Abrams
Photo: MTV News
It's a lot to take in. Imagine being on TV for the first time in your life, in front of several hundred screaming fans in a Los Angeles studio and more than 20 million at home, and not only performing a cover of a song you may not even know, but listening to feedback on your work from three judges, mentor/ record industry legend Jimmy Iovine and the show's producers.
It can be a head-swimming proposition, but for just-booted "American Idol" bass-slapper Casey Abrams, filtering all of that information was not as hard as it sounds.
"I tended to listen to the coaches more," he said of the "Idol...
- 5/4/2011
- MTV Music News
Continuing our exclusive series, American Idol vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd and associate music director and arranger Michael Orland sat down with EW to discuss Wednesday night’s Top 6 performance show. For a decade, Byrd and Orland have been on the front lines with the contestants, from Hollywood Week to the grand finale in May. The two work with the contestants on their respective songs, helping them shine on the Idol stage and in front of a national TV audience. Click through to read their take on this week’s “Songs of Carole King” show, including why Lauren cried...
- 4/28/2011
- by John Young
- EW.com - PopWatch
From James Durbin’s militaristic take on Muse’s “Uprising” to Jacob Lusk’s shaky start with Luther Vandross’ “Dance with My Father,” once again, American Idol vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd and associate music director and arranger Michael Orland are here to give their peerless insights into the Idol Top 7′s attempt at 21st century music. For a decade, Byrd and Orland have been on the front lines with the contestants, from Hollywood Week to the grand finale in May. The two work with the contestants on their respective songs, helping them shine on the Idol stage and...
- 4/21/2011
- by Adam B. Vary
- EW.com - PopWatch
As you’ve come to expect each week here on PopWatch, American Idol vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd and associate music director and arranger Michael Orland sat down with EW to discuss Wednesday night’s Top 8 performance show right after the music ended. For a decade, Byrd and Orland have been on the front lines with the contestants, from Hollywood Week to the grand finale in May. The two work with the contestants on their respective songs, helping them shine on the Idol stage and in front of a national TV audience. Click through to read their take on...
- 4/14/2011
- by Tanner Stransky
- EW.com - PopWatch
Continuing our exclusive series, American Idol vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd and associate music director and arranger Michael Orland sat down with EW to discuss Wednesday night’s Top 9 performance show. For a decade, Byrd and Orland have been on the front lines with the contestants, from Hollywood Week to the grand finale in May. The two work with the contestants on their respective songs, helping them shine on the Idol stage and in front of a national TV audience. Click through to read their take on this week’s “Rock & Roll Hall of Fame” show, including why Jacob...
- 4/7/2011
- by John Young
- EW.com - PopWatch
Glue a wig to your head and put Eminem on speed dial because it's Elton John week on "American Idol X: Ballads Or Bust."
The Top 11 returned to primetime because Casey Abrams was saved last week. ("Saved" in the "Idol" sense, mind you. Lord knows if he's accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.) Producers were keen on trumping up the drama as much as possible, even going so far as recapping last week's results show with a graphic that mimicked a screenplay. "Hope has been renewed. But no more second chances," the Courier font typed out. Because if there's one thing us diehard "Idol" freaks love, it's having Nigel Lythgoe imply that last week's intense results were manufactured by a writer. Whoops!
The Top 11 also stopped by Entertainment Weekly for a photo shoot. Some of them even got makeovers. All that was missing from this "America's Next Top Model...
The Top 11 returned to primetime because Casey Abrams was saved last week. ("Saved" in the "Idol" sense, mind you. Lord knows if he's accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.) Producers were keen on trumping up the drama as much as possible, even going so far as recapping last week's results show with a graphic that mimicked a screenplay. "Hope has been renewed. But no more second chances," the Courier font typed out. Because if there's one thing us diehard "Idol" freaks love, it's having Nigel Lythgoe imply that last week's intense results were manufactured by a writer. Whoops!
The Top 11 also stopped by Entertainment Weekly for a photo shoot. Some of them even got makeovers. All that was missing from this "America's Next Top Model...
- 3/31/2011
- by Jim Cantiello
- MTV Newsroom
From Naima’s reggae risk to Casey’s stripped-down shot at redemption, American Idol vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd and associate music director and arranger Michael Orland had a great deal to say about the Top 11 (take two) performances for Elton John week. For 10 seasons on Idol, Byrd and Orland have been on the front lines with the contestants, from Hollywood Week to the grand finale in May. The two work with the contestants on their respective songs, helping them learn how best to shine on the Idol stage and in front of a national TV audience. As we...
- 3/31/2011
- by Adam B. Vary
- EW.com - PopWatch
Continuing the exclusive interviews that we launched during the Top 13 and Top 12 weeks, American Idol vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd and associate music director and arranger Michael Orland chatted with EW following the Top 11 performance show last night. For Idol’s 10 seasons, Byrd and Orland have been on the front lines with the contestants, from Hollywood Week to the grand finale in May. The two work with the contestants on their respective songs, helping them shine on the Idol stage and in front of a national TV audience. Click through to read their take on this week’s “Motown Night” show,...
- 3/24/2011
- by Tanner Stransky
- EW.com - PopWatch
Continuing last week’s exclusive, American Idol vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd and associate music director and arranger Michael Orland chatted with EW following the Top 12 performance show. For 10 seasons, Byrd and Orland have been on the front lines with the contestants, from Hollywood Week to the grand finale in May. The two work with the contestants on their respective songs, helping them shine on the Idol stage and in front of a national TV audience. Click through to read their take on this week’s “Year the Contestants Were Born” show, including what Thia needs to accomplish to...
- 3/17/2011
- by John Young
- EW.com - PopWatch
For ten seasons, American Idol associate music director and arranger Michael Orland and vocal coach and arranger Debra Byrd have been on the front lines with the contestants, from Hollywood week to the grand finale in May. Orland and Byrd work with the wannabe superstars on their respective songs, helping them shine on the big Idol stage and in front of a national TV audience. With the revamped judging panel, “the show feels brand new,” says Orland. “The kids are totally supported every inch of they way.” Adds Byrd, “I love this season because there are So. Many. Excellent. Singers.
- 3/10/2011
- by Adam B. Vary
- EW.com - PopWatch
Even though she has a friend with some of the most amazing fans in the world, Thia Megia’s phenomenal talent alone will carry her through the competition, say the American Idol vocal coaches!
We’ve only reached the American Idol Top 24, but two of the hit reality show’s vocal coaches predict Thia Megia will go far in the competition. Not only does she have the support of her friend Charice’s fans around the world, she’s one of the best talents they’ve seen!
“The kid is amazing. She’s 15. She’s so beyond her years musically, it’s insane,” Michael Orland raved about the pint-size belter from Mountain House, Calif. to HollywoodLife.com at the Idol Prom in Hollywood Feb. 24.
He added, “This is the first year we’ve had 15-year-olds on the show — I’d like to see her do well because of that.”
However,...
We’ve only reached the American Idol Top 24, but two of the hit reality show’s vocal coaches predict Thia Megia will go far in the competition. Not only does she have the support of her friend Charice’s fans around the world, she’s one of the best talents they’ve seen!
“The kid is amazing. She’s 15. She’s so beyond her years musically, it’s insane,” Michael Orland raved about the pint-size belter from Mountain House, Calif. to HollywoodLife.com at the Idol Prom in Hollywood Feb. 24.
He added, “This is the first year we’ve had 15-year-olds on the show — I’d like to see her do well because of that.”
However,...
- 2/25/2011
- by Kirstin Benson
- HollywoodLife
Hollywood Week continued on "American Idol" Thursday night, as the remaining 100 contestants performed solo numbers in hopes of becoming America's "next top adult contemporary star."
Historically, this is the week where the front-runners solidify their lead going into the semi-finals. Think David Archuleta's "Heaven." Think Andrew Garcia's "Straight Up." Think Matt Giraud's "Georgia on My Mind." It's also when early faves flame out spectacularly. See: Josiah Leming.
Seacrest promised "some of the most outstanding performances in our 10-year history," and for once, his overhype was nearly justified. I can't remember the last time I watched an "Idol" episode so full of singers leaving every last bit of showbiz pizazz on the stage.
Blond lip-gloss addict Haley Reinhart kicked off the show with a "God Bless the Child" that was equal parts Screaming Jay Hawkins and Betty Boop. She may have survived the group round "through the skin of [her] teeth,...
Historically, this is the week where the front-runners solidify their lead going into the semi-finals. Think David Archuleta's "Heaven." Think Andrew Garcia's "Straight Up." Think Matt Giraud's "Georgia on My Mind." It's also when early faves flame out spectacularly. See: Josiah Leming.
Seacrest promised "some of the most outstanding performances in our 10-year history," and for once, his overhype was nearly justified. I can't remember the last time I watched an "Idol" episode so full of singers leaving every last bit of showbiz pizazz on the stage.
Blond lip-gloss addict Haley Reinhart kicked off the show with a "God Bless the Child" that was equal parts Screaming Jay Hawkins and Betty Boop. She may have survived the group round "through the skin of [her] teeth,...
- 2/18/2011
- by Jim Cantiello
- MTV Newsroom
Fans of American Idol season 9 champ Lee DeWyze can now exhale. While lots of critics (me included) were less than enamored of his rendition of “Beautiful Day” on last week’s Idol performance finale, the former paint salesman more than redeemed himself this morning by offering a unique, stripped-down twist on the song as part of Today’s summer concert series. Playing an acoustic guitar, and accompanied on piano by Idol’s Michael Orland, Lee made significant changes to the rhythm and melody and turned U2′s soaring anthem into an intimate, placid ditty; honestly, I felt like I was...
- 6/3/2010
- by Michael Slezak
- EW.com - PopWatch
'American Idol': Ryan completely loses his everlovin' mind on the scene of Top 9.2 performance night
So I take off three weeks from collecting the best of American Idol behind-the-scenery, and what happens? Half of the ladies got the boot, Big "Stank Face" Mike got the save, and apparently, Ryan Seacrest completely lost his everloving mind. The best on-camera taste of Ryan's spastic battiness was, of course, during Tim Urban's dagblastit-the-kid's-actually-getting-kinda-good performance of "I Can't Help Falling In Love," when Ryan randomly grabbed Michael Sarver a beefy member of Lee Dewyze's official cheer squad and proceeded to dance with him through most of the song. (Update: As that strikeout text indicates, and just to be abundantly clear,...
- 4/14/2010
- by Adam B. Vary
- EW.com - PopWatch
As any regular reader of these on-the-scene American Idol recaps knows, there is quite often a big ole difference between what a performance sounds like when it's blasted through the juiced-up speakers in the Idoldome, and the subtle pitchy imperfections that can trickle through your TV speakers. The same is certainly true for the semi-finals' Idolcupola, and the judges have said as much these past three weeks. Until last night, though, I hadn't realized that there's another disconnect between what y'all see on the HD plasma and what we see live and in person when it comes to the semi-finals -- namely,...
- 3/11/2010
- by Adam B. Vary
- EW.com - PopWatch
Whether he's facing the judges or facing down an American Idol exit interview, Jermaine Sellers is never at a loss for words. He talked happily about his eclectic fashion choices, his outsized personality, why he confused Idol associate music director Michael Orland for a certain King of Pop, and who was always on his mind when he was performing on stage. EW: Hi, Jermaine -- how’s your morning been so far? Jermaine Sellers: [Laughs] I feel like God brought me from a mighty long way, you know? I’m here right now. It’s sad that I had to go home so soon,...
- 3/5/2010
- by Adam B. Vary
- EW.com - PopWatch
After a rocky start to the semifinals last week, American Idol's top 20 contestants will be back tonight and tomorrow to prove they're more Kelly Clarkson than Kelli Glover. Before they sing another note, however, it's time for me to rank their place in the season 9 stratosphere -- and for you to weigh in with your own vote in our handy Power List Poll. So, without further ado, let's get to it...shall we? (Oh, and after you do your Idol civic duty, be sure to get up-to-the minute links to my coverage by following me on that Twitter thingie @EWMichaelSlezak!
- 3/2/2010
- by Michael Slezak
- EW.com - PopWatch
Wednesday night's (February 24) "American Idol" was bad. Really bad. Like, makes-you-question-the-meaning-of-life-bad. The debut of season nine's Top 12 boys (no men here) did the impossible: It out-sucked the girls' tepid outing from Tuesday. By a lot. Let's just get to the carnage.
Todrick Hall
Song: "Since U Been Gone" by Kelly Clarkson
Verdict: The Wizard of Odd
Todrick opened the show on an offbeat note by putting Kelly Clarkson's signature anthem in a blender with fuzzed out synths, jangly African guitars, Morris Day R&B, atonal background singers, gospel vocal inflections and a dollop of a spoken word. It was as close to a Dirty Projectors song as we'll ever get on "American Idol." It may have left the judges scratching their heads (Randy used the word "obliterated"), but Pitchfork would give it an 9.2. Personally, I dug it. He may have been trying too hard, but I thought his vocals...
Todrick Hall
Song: "Since U Been Gone" by Kelly Clarkson
Verdict: The Wizard of Odd
Todrick opened the show on an offbeat note by putting Kelly Clarkson's signature anthem in a blender with fuzzed out synths, jangly African guitars, Morris Day R&B, atonal background singers, gospel vocal inflections and a dollop of a spoken word. It was as close to a Dirty Projectors song as we'll ever get on "American Idol." It may have left the judges scratching their heads (Randy used the word "obliterated"), but Pitchfork would give it an 9.2. Personally, I dug it. He may have been trying too hard, but I thought his vocals...
- 2/25/2010
- by Jim Cantiello
- MTV Newsroom
DeGeneres surprises Martin by promising her a Kara DioGuardi song, aims for label deal.
By Hillary Crosley
Angela Martin on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" on Friday
Photo: Warner Bros.
"American Idol" contestant Angela Martin may have lost the competition, but her resilience earned her a helping hand from talk show host and fourth "Idol" judge Ellen DeGeneres on Friday (February 19).
Martin made it to the Hollywood round of the show, but wasn't selected to continue on to the final competition.
"I was preparing myself to be strong and talk to you guys, but then I saw the pictures of my daughter and I just fell apart," Martin, 28, told DeGeneres. "Like, if I fail, how am I gonna tell her Mommy didn't make it?"
However, after her dismissal, DeGeneres invited the young mother, whose daughter is 10, to appear and perform on her talk show. Martin sang a rendition of Alicia Keys...
By Hillary Crosley
Angela Martin on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" on Friday
Photo: Warner Bros.
"American Idol" contestant Angela Martin may have lost the competition, but her resilience earned her a helping hand from talk show host and fourth "Idol" judge Ellen DeGeneres on Friday (February 19).
Martin made it to the Hollywood round of the show, but wasn't selected to continue on to the final competition.
"I was preparing myself to be strong and talk to you guys, but then I saw the pictures of my daughter and I just fell apart," Martin, 28, told DeGeneres. "Like, if I fail, how am I gonna tell her Mommy didn't make it?"
However, after her dismissal, DeGeneres invited the young mother, whose daughter is 10, to appear and perform on her talk show. Martin sang a rendition of Alicia Keys...
- 2/19/2010
- MTV Music News
DeGeneres surprises Martin by promising her a Kara DioGuardi song, aims for label deal.
By Hillary Crosley
Angela Martin on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" on Friday
Photo: Warner Bros.
"American Idol" contestant Angela Martin may have lost the competition, 1632111 but her resilience earned her a helping hand from talk show host and fourth "Idol" judge Ellen DeGeneres on Friday (February 19).
Martin made it to the Hollywood round of the show, but wasn't selected to continue on to the final competition.
"I was preparing myself to be strong and talk to you guys, but then I saw the pictures of my daughter and I just fell apart," Martin, 28, told DeGeneres. "Like, if I fail how am I gonna tell her mommy didn't make it?"
However, after her dismissal, DeGeneres invited the young mother, whose daughter is 10, to appear and perform on her talk show. Martin sang a rendition of Alicia Keys...
By Hillary Crosley
Angela Martin on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" on Friday
Photo: Warner Bros.
"American Idol" contestant Angela Martin may have lost the competition, 1632111 but her resilience earned her a helping hand from talk show host and fourth "Idol" judge Ellen DeGeneres on Friday (February 19).
Martin made it to the Hollywood round of the show, but wasn't selected to continue on to the final competition.
"I was preparing myself to be strong and talk to you guys, but then I saw the pictures of my daughter and I just fell apart," Martin, 28, told DeGeneres. "Like, if I fail how am I gonna tell her mommy didn't make it?"
However, after her dismissal, DeGeneres invited the young mother, whose daughter is 10, to appear and perform on her talk show. Martin sang a rendition of Alicia Keys...
- 2/19/2010
- MTV Music News
I'd like to start this "American Idol" recap with a new game that I like to call "Porn Dialogue or 'Idol' Conversation?"
Man: Fancy seeing you here.
Woman: I like that word fancy. Fancy. You're very '70s. I like that about you. What is it with the '70s and you?
Man: All my idols are from the '60s and '70s. You know, Robert Plant, Roger Daltry, Morrison.
Woman: Did you get some of your moves from them? Where do you get those moves?
Man: I actually have a lot of rock DVDs and I watch a lot of old concerts.
Woman: Do you think you'll bring some of those moves if you stay?
Man: Whatever kind of moves you want, I'll give you.
Woman: Really? I think we wanna see those moves again, and you're gonna go through.
That was an exchange between Kara DioGuardi...
Man: Fancy seeing you here.
Woman: I like that word fancy. Fancy. You're very '70s. I like that about you. What is it with the '70s and you?
Man: All my idols are from the '60s and '70s. You know, Robert Plant, Roger Daltry, Morrison.
Woman: Did you get some of your moves from them? Where do you get those moves?
Man: I actually have a lot of rock DVDs and I watch a lot of old concerts.
Woman: Do you think you'll bring some of those moves if you stay?
Man: Whatever kind of moves you want, I'll give you.
Woman: Really? I think we wanna see those moves again, and you're gonna go through.
That was an exchange between Kara DioGuardi...
- 2/18/2010
- by Jim Cantiello
- MTV Newsroom
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