It’s the Final 3, ya’ll. We’re only one week away from crowning this year’s American Idol. Who’ll it be? Scotty, Lauren or Haley? Millions of people are waiting on the edge of seats to see who’ll battle it out at the Nokia Theater next week. I can’t believe I’m one of those people. At this point last year, people (including me) were wondering if Idol could survive without Simon Cowell. Surprisingly, the answer is a resounding… yes.

As in past years, the remaining Idols sing three songs apiece- contestant’s choice, Jimmy Iovine’s choice and judges’ choice. Beyonce was on hand this week to coach the Idols with their individual picks. Obviously, B wasn’t just there to show off her mentoring skills but rather to promote her new single and debut her brand new music video for “Run The World (Girls)“. Not surprisingly, she wasn’t the most insightful when it came to give the singers constructive comments.

All three received a hero’s welcome back in their respective hometowns. Even fourth place James Durbin attracted a sizable crowd for his homecoming. I’m sure with tomorrow’s hour long results show we’ll see much more of their hometown visits. Unfortunately, one of them will be heading back home tomorrow. Metaphorically speaking of course, since the finale is next week and everyone is sticking around to practice for it. Check out how each contestant fared in each round below.

Scotty McCreery’s Performances

Round 1: Amazed by Lonestar
Round 2: Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not by Thompson Square
Round 3: She Believes In Me by Kenny Rogers

Scotty was consistent all night long. IMHO, he was never the best but he was never the worst either. As far as we know, Scotty has never been in the bottom which means he’s got a loyal fanbase. I highly doubt both girls will make it to the finals, but you never know… anything can happen. Lopez asked Scotty to shave his head for next week’s final showdown. A little presumptuous on her part that he’ll make it, but probably a safe bet. For me, Scotty’s best performance was between his first and third round performances. Ironically enough, Randy and Jennifer thought he won the second round.

Lauren Alaina’s Performances

Round 1: Wild One by Zaca Creek
Round 2: If I Die Young by The Band Perry
Round 3: I Hope You Dance by Lee Ann Womack

Deep down, I think the producers want an all-country showdown. For a while tonight, thing looked bleak their wish would come true. That was until Lauren wowed during her last performance. She was amazing on “I Hope You Dance”. Had she been doing that all season long (like the judges wanted), she would be the frontrunner instead of Scotty. On a superficial fashion note, WTF was she thinking with her first two outfits. Heinballs. Thankfully the last image she left us with, was a stunning one.

Haley Reinhart’s Performances

Round 1: What Is and What Should Never Be by Led Zeppelin
Round 2: Rhiannon by Fleetwood Mac
Round 3: You Oughta Know by Alanis Morissette

Just in case you didn’t know it by now. I’m wholeheartedly rooting for Haley to crash next week’s party. I love how the underdog is within earshot of not only making the finals but maybe even winning the whole thing. All the judges agreed Haley took the first round. I was amazed how fast she regrouped after taking a huge spill on the steps. Funny enough, I was worried she was going to fall as she walked down the big stairs. Instead she fell going up the small steps from the judges. LOL.

For her second performance, she clearly borrowed Beyonce and J.Lo’s fan machine. That probably was the one piece advice of from Beyonce- a lot of hairography. LOL. I don’t think the producers have ever given a contestant that courtesy before. Who did she suck up to? Speaking of firsts, Haley’s Dad accompanied her for her first song. Who’s the producers’ pet now. Haley should’ve killed her last song, but she was kinda pitchy during the verses. The chorus, on the flipside, was phenomenal. She blew it out the water then. HALEY FTW.

My Rankings From Best To Worst

Round 1

1. Haley Reinhart
3. Scotty McCreery
3. Lauren Alaina

Round 2

1. Lauren Alaina
2. Scotty McCreery
3. Haley Reinhart

Round 3

1. Lauren Alaina
2. Scotty McCreery
3. Haley Reinhart

Elimination Prediction

Since Scotty has never been in the bottom, it’s safe to say he’s got a rabid fanbase. Even though, he wasn’t the best tonight, I think he’ll get through. To boot, he’ll be on the receiving end of votes from James’ fans. There’s no one to split the cute boy vote anymore. I think Haley and Lauren are pretty neck and neck. Both had defining moments tonight so they’ll pick up votes from casual fans. With Haley doing a couple of rock numbers, I’m hoping she wins over a few of James’ fans as well. Producers want an all country final. I want an all girl final, but I think it’ll be a boy vs girl final. Question is, which girl? I’m hoping for Haley, but think Lauren might get it. For once, I hope I’m wrong.

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