[Cyclefrance]

If American Idol is anything like the UK equivalent then the female vocalists tend to lose votes as the competition tightens - reason being over here is that the men/boys are too busy with sport and drinking to vote, and the Ladies/girls tend towards the male over female singers when it comes to voting. Having said that you produced two female winners! so much for the English influence!

Country week did my head in - I don't think it was all down to the singers/songs though - rather the 'coaching' from Kenny Rogers came nownere near to that provided by Barry Manilow, who really brought the best out of the pack.

Next show is the one to watch - music of Queen - so I have a big, BIG, favour to ask. You see, we only get the programme on Friday - your two shows rolled into one. So, please, no sneeking the result into another thread where it's not expected, I want to watch this one not knowing the outcome. Many thanks!

As for eventual winner - I tend to go the Chris route also, but boats have been known to be rocked. Taylor's my wild card. I think Buckey should be feeling nervous and even Pickler looks shaky (although the Cowell influence may assist - he loves a minxy woman!)

We've seen some good talent go already, Mandisa definitely included, but agree with Stevebsjb, that we're also reaching the level now where the talented ones that fail now, such as she, have done enough to establish a career for themselves.