2008 Woodie Awards
SHU Idol competition heats up Outpost
Dana Cannizzaro
Issue date: 2/2/06 Section: A & E
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The energetic host, Kaitlin Brownridge, welcomed all 18 contestants to the stage for their performances. Judges included Dr. Michaels, Dr. Jay and last year's SHU Idol winner, Sophia Cruz.
Whether the audience was there for the talent or the humor, it was certain that this competition was full of both.
"It's going to be hilarious," said AJ McIntyre, freshman, Jamesport, N.Y.
The first contestant, Erica Rico started off the evening with one of the most difficult songs to perform, the National Anthem. Judges impressively said that her voice resembled crosses of Miss "How do I live without you" Leann Rimes and the legendary Celine Dion. Francis Scott Key would have been proud.
There were significantly more female contestants than male contestants this year, but the first gentleman of the evening gave quite the performance. Joe Rea sang his own spin of "Against All Odds," which would seem quite challenging, considering Phil Collins and Ben Gibbard have both already recorded the song. It was after his performance that judges announced that Genesis is going to get back together!
The crowd was especially involved when Jared Faircloth got up to sing "How Sweet It Is." The audience's performance was just as good as his, but the judges confirmed that he had more rhythm.
One of the more powerful voices of the evening came from Dani Lee. Though she was naturally shy by performing, facing away from the audience, she did a great job with "Natural Woman."
Another fantastic performance of the night was Allie O'Leary's. Her version of "L-O-V-E" was loved by both, the crowd and the judges. Allie had great emotion and stage presence all through her performance.
Mike Johnson was sure he hit all the notes when it came time for his performance of "More than Words." Right after, it was confirmed that he will not lead Van Halen. Ever.
Contestant Jackie Stephens was just as soulful as Joss Stone when she sang "Right to be Wrong." But it turned out that there was nothing wrong with her performance. She was right on key.
One of the judges suggested after Ian Straughter's performance that his voice makes girls melt. Luckily, none of the girls in the audience needed to be mopped up after his performance.
All in all, this year's SHU idol is going to be a tough competition. Finalists will be announced next week during the second installment of SHU Idol.
"Everyone did a good job, so it will be a close race," said Holly Finneran, sophomore, Glen Ridge, N.J.
Host, Kaitlin Brownridge has positive feelings about this year's SHU Idol as well,
"I think this year's competition is already starting out amazing, from the great turnout of contestants to the amount of people that came to support."
Hopefully next week will bring the same enthusiasm and success as the first did.