There's many factors that keep driving the American Idol machine. But the most important one may be talent. This year's top two, Scotty McCreery and Lauren Alaina, are straight up country. They were given the most stage time and made a big impression. Although the night was laced with cringe worthy covers and a few artists who will never be on an arena stage again, it was a solid night of music and a chance for the Idol fans to see their favorites live.
This tour has been going strong since Idol's inaugural year. With all the detractors of the billion dollar brand this show has become, it doesn't stop the fans from buying tickets. Hp Pavilion in San Jose was nearly at capacity as the top twelve contestants launched into two hours of covers, along with a couple of new songs thrown in by the most popular from the crop of newbies.
The audience was family oriented and the performers looked awkward, excited, and at times a little overwhelmed on stage. It's not every day performers on an arena stage show genuine emotion. These are normal people after all. These lucky twelve have been thrust into the limelight at breakneck speed. And the show is concentrated on their vocal talent, as it should be. There aren't many choreographed dance routines and zero KISS style antics. The TV cameras may not be there any longer but that doesn't mean the pressure has dissipated.
Both winners may be outsold by Pia Toscanao in the future. McCreery may have won the official title but Pia sure did have a lot of stage time, got the most applause, and had a few of the strongest performances of the night.