On the May 5, 2009 episode of American Idol, 4 Finalists Compete, the final four singers were mentored by rock icon Slash from Guns n’ Roses and Velvet Revolver. Also, Adam Lambert was finally able to show off his rock side to the fullest, and he blew away the judges with it.
Solo Performances
Adam Lambert – Led Zeppelin, Whole Lotta Love – Rock is Adam’s thing, so it was no surprised he looked very comfortable and confident on stage. Randy said this is the Adam he loves. Kara called him a rock God. Paula said he was “a whole lotta perfect.” Simon said it could’ve been a disaster, but it turned out to be one of his favorite performances for Adam.
Allison Iraheta – Janis Joplin, Cry Baby – Allison’s performance was stunning, and she rocked the house. Randy said he wished she had picked a song with more vocal range. Kara also disliked the song and thought Allison seemed nervous. Paula said she did a great job. Simon said she was terrific vocally but not original.
Kris Allen – The Beatles, Come Together – Kris took a very famous song, made it his own and made it sound great. Randy liked the vocals but loved the guitar playing more. Kara didn’t like the performance. Paula loved his “imprint” on the song but told him to have more energy. Simon said it was “like eating ice for lunch,” meaning it was boring.
Danny Gokey – Aerosmith, Dream On – Danny had a surprising rock side and rock scream, and he really had Paula going. Randy said it was alright but showed a great effort. Kara was happy to see him taking in their comments, but she still wasn’t impressed. Paula thought it wasn’t the right song for Danny. Simon thought the last note was like watching a horror movie.
Allison Iraheta and Adam Lambert - Fantastic Duets
Danny Gokey and Kris Allen – Styx, Renegade – These two sounded amazing together, and it was a great rendition. Randy liked how the men complimented each other. Kara said there were pitchy moments. Paula thought the performance was powerful. Simon thought Danny was better than Kris.
Allison Iraheta and Adam Lambert – Foghat, Slowride – Allison and Adam are amazing apart and amazing together, but Adam still stole the show. Randy said they should do a duet on their albums because they were amazing. Kara loved that they pushed each other to do better. Paula thought they were a perfect blend. Simon said they won in the battle of the duets.
