IDOL CHATTER- SUNDAY NIGHT

The live shows finally began Sunday night. 14 performances as America votes ( along with the judges) to set the top 10. Here are my thoughts..

- I can see why Idol may be experiencing low ratings. The judges are too nice and boring; many of the contestants really can't sing; a fake, plastic atmosphere, with all the flashing lights and video boards. Idol may not return next season because of low ratings and high production costs. Maybe no one really cares anymore?

- So, the judges. Lionel didn't say a bad word about anyone all night. He is getting tiresome with his sage-like, grandfather advice , his name-dropping and stories of his Commodores' days. Katy is way overpaid at $25 million this season. She was cute and funny earlier during auditions. now she is annoying with all of the phony fawning over male singers. Luke adds absolutely nothing.

I said it when ABC announced that American Idol was coming back: give Simon whatever he wants to return. Double Katy's salary and pay Simon. He is worth it. He is brutally honest. He had chemistry with Randy and Paula. You never knew what Simon would say. Getting his approval was a big deal to winning Idol back then. Even if you didn't win, a record contract may still be coming your way. People detested Simon but watched him.

- America picks their favorite six. The remaining eight must sing again tonight, as the judges pick four to stay and four to go home.

- Here is a brief synopsis of each singer last night:

Jurnee- Will make it tonight but ultimately she won't win.

Dennis- Same story. Good but lacking something.

Cade- Simply the best. Even if he doesn't win he will have a rock career, ala Daughtry.

Catie- Still annoying as hell. But she will make the top 10. Her song was OK last night. America needs to boot her down the road.

 Ada- I'm so confused with the drag queen. It's all a gimmick and the judges are buying it. Maybe they were told by network executives to worship Ada for the curiosity and ratings? She/he makes it but can't imagine she/he ever winning. Outfit last night was bizarre. So was screaming song choice of Queen's "The Show must Go On."

Maddie- Silky-smooth voice and original song choices, from "Brand New Key" to "Homeward Bound". Easily makes it thru.

Caleb- Country guy, didn't have the best night but sticks. Lost 80 pounds from auditions, so someone has already gotten to him regarding imagine.

Michelle- Selena-like, jumping around. Thinks she is the next great Latin pop star. I think she gets cut.

Gabby- Sweet and powerful voice. She makes it but is she flashy enough to get noticed?

Marcio- I'm a Barry Manilow fan, and this guy totally butchered "It's A Miracle." He was off-key and pitchy and I don't think America will connect with the song choice. He didn't cry until the end. He's a goner.

Jonny- He can't sing, plain and simple. Heart-throb No. 1 goes home.

Garrette- He can't sing either. Heart-throb No. 2 goes home.

Mara- Cries and blubbers. Too young and immature. She goes too.

Michael J.- Didn't like the song but passes the test to the next round.

OK, that's 5 going home, so let's say one of the heart-throbs somehow weasels-in.  Tonight should be interesting. Will there be a surprise? Even if America hates someone like the drag queen, look for the judges to save, in the name of ratings.