• More
Back to PopWatch Home
EW Home
Get Latest Headlines

'Idol' judges need the 411 on 311

Mar 7, 2007, 11:32 AM | by Whitney Pastorek

Categories: 'American Idol'

Blake_l If you've checked out Slezak's TV Watch today, you'll know the men of American Idol pretty much bricked it last night, but for my money, the worst offense was not Sanjaya Malakar baby-puking on John Mayer or Sundance Head's assassination of "Jeremy" — give that kid bonus points for getting the line "bit the recess lady's breast" into the family hour! — but rather the judges' reaction to Blake Lewis' (pictured) rendition of 311's "All Mixed Up," in which all three admitted to having NO IDEA WHO 311 IS.

Now. I'm no huge fan, but even I know that 311 is a platinum-selling stoner-ska band, and that "All Mixed Up" is one of their bigger hits from the mid-90's. I also know that while Blake's performance had the rather unfortunate side effect of making 311 sound even more like a Sublime knock-off than they already do, it was still an amazing, Bobby McFerrin-esque feat in which he managed to replicate every sound on the record, add a few more, and bleep out the word "ass" for himself. Phenomenal.

But for Randy, Paula, and Simon, the more important point to be made was essentially, "Wow, I don't know what that crazy newfangled sound was, but I liked it!" And in light of that, PopWatchers, I ask you, which is the worse crime: Being the judge of a singing competition designed to find someone who best represents the sound of contemporary American music and not knowing who 311 is... or admitting it?

1 2 Next »

obqfap zwxtmregp Wed, Jan 28, 2009 at 03:19 AM EST

vqkja btegvmx wrqef hwnec nwvzsxybh sharfu qltruban

jwinzghc bkgewnp Mon, Jan 19, 2009 at 09:48 AM EST

abjhuzcf nakwymgp wxmb vxfp auewmvz ftqgizh rshuni http://www.awvuz.xnpqzsr.com

nuqryfxo gfckbez Mon, Jan 19, 2009 at 09:47 AM EST

tgxear iwbn ojlzkt zxscrpko xmsqv qybmohx jubrzvlni

elmvjc jydgomx Sat, Jan 10, 2009 at 07:46 AM EST

obvjlw jdxcuzym gnujyrx xknqchfp owzlavu rvplascby bkmyhzqg

qjywlnp ajdrhc Wed, Jan 7, 2009 at 08:16 AM EST

orijvyshn tvmsfirdz gpksht ivhlrzfcq fdhuzexw fqtrcvedu xsgn http://www.nkuabj.ghtky.com

xwht runtjae Wed, Jan 7, 2009 at 08:15 AM EST

ubgh jyowube pzskowru hoge dnbfi lckgv pfjyq

lokvdbaj eyldnf Fri, Dec 26, 2008 at 09:02 AM EST

xawejrl ewqpr uimkboa dbqljtg onfysikr khltu yvbdukqn

ypnkud cnehsxzat Fri, Dec 26, 2008 at 09:01 AM EST

vuxprdbkm rxgbvjip yfxp nofxwvsje mcjxq plegn ifetnrxw http://www.ewjngxduk.nplhka.com

lokvdbaj eyldnf Fri, Dec 26, 2008 at 09:01 AM EST

xawejrl ewqpr uimkboa dbqljtg onfysikr khltu yvbdukqn

nbhegx lpon Fri, Dec 26, 2008 at 04:59 AM EST

pwqefi hpnyvb ptjiglnw wimqlghec fbdhcy gjxyebl fsdtrg http://www.fqvb.tvkbawe.com

gkht hblzkxqfu Fri, Dec 26, 2008 at 04:58 AM EST

awhktsegi vthnfl nvqhpdcw dfxyjs bflqmwdk wuqxlrfeb mgjv

miftk odgm Mon, Dec 22, 2008 at 08:53 AM EST

gktnsf kpvtljwmh qkpmetoar xvdaomck bxetdkjr navpdtew xcdqk

qjiwkf rmdbjcgvs Sat, Feb 23, 2008 at 05:13 AM EST

xuormtval urocz sdgqm zipkh rtiysqam xnpdsvr xeukipzfc

avaleigh Fri, Dec 28, 2007 at 10:50 AM EST

Hey the currently hottest reggae singer Ava leigh who’s worked with the famous Sly n Robbie, Nick Manasseh, and future cut has free music you can download at www.avaleigh.co.uk ?get your’s.

avaleigh Fri, Dec 28, 2007 at 10:43 AM EST

Hey the currently hottest reggae singer Ava leigh who’s worked with the famous Sly n Robbie, Nick Manasseh, and future cut has free music you can download at www.avaleigh.co.uk ?get your’s.

Royale with Cheese Wed, Mar 28, 2007 at 12:41 PM EST

Yeah, wikipedia has taken some flak for questionable content lately, Beth. But I don't really question the minor details that I get there. Whether or not the gun that Hemingway used to commit suicide came from Abercrombie - maybe I doubt. Dates that bands formed - I think we're okay.


But, okay, for accuracy's sake, I dug a little further. Sublime fansites say that the band formed in 1988. The official 311 wesbite doesn't really give an official date, but it does state that two of the founding members moved to Los Angeles in 1990 in an attempt to land a recording contract.


Again, I'm no huge fan of either, so I couldn't really care less.


I can't really speak for Tom and his private life. My best guess is that he doesn't really have syphillis. It doesn't affect my life either way. I just happen to think he has a good grasp of pop culture, and he can be fairly witty at times.


Go check out the posts regarding Jason v. Freddy if you'd like to see what I am talking about.

Beth Wed, Mar 28, 2007 at 10:30 AM EST

It's a good thing you are not Furry Tom, because his work has alot of sludge. The man calls himself a bad case of syphllis. You call that work? Is that supposed to be funny? Hope he is not out giving pox to half the world.

Beth Wed, Mar 28, 2007 at 10:23 AM EST

Wikipedia is not a high recommendation. some of the information is correct and most of it is questionable.

Royale with Cheese Wed, Mar 28, 2007 at 10:23 AM EST

For the record, furry_tom and I are NOT the same person.


While I have used several aliases on here (Phantom, Not Again, etc.), I believe furry_tom has always used his original name.


I am, however, a fan of his work. He is MUCH funnier than I am.

Royale with Cheese Wed, Mar 28, 2007 at 10:18 AM EST

RE: ONE i am a 311 fan because of that song and "come original" if you can't name at least THREE 311 songs besides "amber" and "love letters" (which is not a original 311 song) then you don't know what the hell your talking about, so go back to listening to your fall out boys and yellowcard.


I know at least three songs besides those two - you couldn't get away from 311 in the 90's. So, yeah, I know what I am talking about. Apparently, I know what I am talking about better than you "Love Letters" (who gets THAT wrong?).


311 sucks, Fallout Boy sucks, Yellowcard sucks. Discuss...

Beth Wed, Mar 28, 2007 at 10:18 AM EST

I am shocked! I'm shocked that Furry Tom is also Royal Cheese. Cheesy indeed.

Royale with Cheese Wed, Mar 28, 2007 at 10:13 AM EST

RE: How in the world did all three of them not know who 311 are?


Is anyone surprised that they didn't know 311? Do you really think these three have any real musical knowledge outside of their own little fields of vision?


I wouldn't be surprised if Paula Abdul thought that the only genre of music that existed was the same kind of crap she put out in 1989.


Why are all of you so shocked?

Royale with Cheese Wed, Mar 28, 2007 at 10:09 AM EST

Actually, wikipedia lists Sublime as forming in 1988 with 311 forming in 1989.


311 maybe have hit first (or bigger) with "All Mixed Up", but I still think Sublime was around a little longer.


No matter. Sublime is SO completely overrated, and 311 kind of sucks to begin with.


Why don't we just throw Sugar Ray in the debate to complete the mid 90's-suckass trifecta?!

keith Wed, Mar 28, 2007 at 10:00 AM EST

whom ever wrote this article.... 311 has been around way longer than Sublime so they really cant be Sublime knock offs. I wish some of these writers of "pop culture" would do their research or at least have some idea of what they're talking about..... yawn.....another critic with their heads up their....well you get the picture

gretchen Fri, Mar 9, 2007 at 10:05 AM EST

they said they didnt know the SONG, not necessarily 311. I didnt know the song either, but I know about 311. Give them a break

Mina Thu, Mar 8, 2007 at 03:48 PM EST

In high school, I bought 311's Transistor and instantly loved it. "Do You Right" (1993) is forever on my finetune playlist. I like 311, some people don't , whatever.

The point is that somebody tried something different and tried to show a little personality. I agree with Simon though, you kinda couldn't understand him.

Matt Thu, Mar 8, 2007 at 02:31 AM EST

311's All Mixed Up is one of the most overplayed songs in the history of Modern Rock radio. I was shocked that none of the three judges knew it. I thought Blake's performance was ok.

Rebekah Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 10:00 PM EST

I have heard that 311 song at least a million times. Seriously! How in the world did all three of them not know who 311 are? Go Blake!

Mee Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 09:28 PM EST

Sorry Blake, You are good but the ladies are kicking the guys arse his season.

Mee Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 09:26 PM EST

MELINDA......My American Idol. Lakisha, You are great but Melinda is and should be the next AI.

P Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 08:22 PM EST

Who cares if they didn't know the song. People should stop arguing about it. It doesn't matter.
Blake did a good job....thats all that matters.

rastaavatar Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 07:12 PM EST

Back in da day "All Mixed Up" and 311 were getting heavy rotation on MTV and the radio for quite a while. At least in the states. I could understand if Simon was in the U.K and wasn't hearing what America was hearing, but the other 2? I'm not even a 311 fanboy, never bougght any of their music and I knew the song instantly because it was played sooo much back in the 90's. It shows to go ya why AI judges pick such average singers for the most part; the people who pick the contestants are mentally challenged and musically ignorant.

http://www.myspace.com/rasta_avatar

Ugh Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 07:11 PM EST

Over ten years and 311 fans are still annoying.

Jennifer Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 06:43 PM EST

I don't recall ever hearing of 311, so I just went to iTunes and listened to some of their songs. I do recall a couple of them and, I gotta say, I CANNOT believe you people are arguing over that crap. It's just regular old pop-ish songs that were played on the radio like millions of other songs that I have forgotten about.

Delon Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 06:30 PM EST

I vaguely remember the band name 311. I always thought that they were an R&B boyband and stayed clear. Now that i know who they are i'm so glad that i've never heard of them. I barely tolerated Sublime, Cake and other mid-90's reggae, ska, rock sunshine crap. I was deep into trip-hop back then. Massive Attack, Tricky, Portishead were Gods for me throughout the 90's. I thought that Heather Matarazzo looking girl from Manhattan during the city auditions(what was her name?) might be crazy and artistic enough to tackle genres that have never been sung on the show, but alas. I don't think Blake has a good voice, at all. But i like the fact that he chooses material that we haven't heard a zillion times before on AI.

WhatDA! Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 06:26 PM EST

What is the big deal? So they didn't know the song! Blake still wasn't all that great. He has style.. but style is going to get old if he doesn't have any vocal chops to support it. This years guys are horrendous and I hope its going to be an all girls show.

Ep Sato Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 05:01 PM EST

To Ryan-
My point was not that these guys copied all the bands listed, but that their SOUND is a combination of the least common denominator elements of Sublime, Rage, Fishbone, Jamiroquai, Mr. Bungle (or Faith no More, take your pick), and the Beastie Boys. While they may have started out at the same times as Sublime and Jamiroquai, they still were part of a similar genre that was aimed at a very specific demographic (I called it "whiteboy rap" back then), and to me the least appealing of the bands in that genre.

to M from Ryan Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 04:49 PM EST

M,

Wow, you must be a HUGE fan of 311 to like both 'All Mixed Up' and 'Come Original'. Also, the song is called, 'Love Song', not 'Love Letter'. Try listening to Freak Out, Paradise, Homebrew, 8:16 am, Nix Hex, Applied Science and get back to me.

m Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 04:41 PM EST

ONE i am a 311 fan because of that song and "come original" if you can't name at least THREE 311 songs besides "amber" and "love letters" (which is not a original 311 song) then you don't know what the hell your talking about, so go back to listening to your fall out boys and yellowcard ...TWO the judges 100% did not who they were but it's ok cuz 311 is orginal and don't need to be known to a bunch of teenbop princesses that watch the show... THREE i was flipping through the channels and came to when he was singing "all mixed up" and he destroyed it... i was disgusted by his attempt to sing like Nick Hexum (lead singer everyone that has no idea who i'm talking about) and sadly attempt to make it his own by beatboxing... IT'S OLD STOP IT DAMNIT!!!

Fatima Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 04:40 PM EST

I didn't know the song, but that's because I avoid 311.

but today on the View, Rosie said that Blake sang a song by Shaggy and I nearly spit out my morning Dr. Pepper.

Banana Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 04:30 PM EST

Actually some googling tells me Antonella is more likely Italian. But she's still a pretty 'ethnic' looking Italian, not the usual white-bred anglo-protestant type that everyone who thinks this is a race issue is purporting her to be.

Banana Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 04:26 PM EST

I was like 12 when that song came out, and I recognized it immediately when Blake sang it. Maybe I'm weirder than most AI viewers were when they were 12, but whatever. I still remembered what it was even though its like the ONLY 311 song not on my boyfriend's iPod.

Also, on the lovely tangent we've gone off on here, the Antonella/Frenchie thing isn't a race issue, a) because of the nature of the publication of the photos and b) I've heard other people smarter than me on the subject say that Antonella probably is actually Latina anyhow, which would not surprise me at all.

Christina Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 04:22 PM EST

Am I shocked they didn't know who 311 were, heck no! I'm 24 and have been pretty tuned into music and other than knowing the bands name, I've never heard of that song before. 311 was just a blip on the radar, not a band that left a big imprint on the music scene.

Phil Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 04:00 PM EST

In my OWN opinion, 311 got most play on Alternative rock stations, but "ALL MIXED UP" was one of their few songs that actually had the most pop/Top 40 crossover appeal. Other than "AMBER" from 2002, I would say that if there was any 311 song that people should recognize, it would be "ALL MIXED UP". It has that funky summertime/reggae-ish vibe & catchy lyrics. And if people don't know the song, I'm sure people will be downloading it off iTunes this week making it another track that sales exploded after a contestant performed it on Idol. Also, Blake is simply adorable, and the fact that he didn't select another cookie-cutter pop track makes him all the more interesting!

Kellyann Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 03:43 PM EST

Brain freeze. I meant situations between Antonella and Frenchie.

Kellyann Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 03:40 PM EST

Also, this is the same ROSIE who was racist in her reference to Chinese people as "CHING CHONG, CHING CHONG." I am no fan of Antonella trust me, however, to compare the situations between her and Antonella are ridiculous. Barbara seemes a little peeved at Rosie this morning. As a result of her outburts they are no longer going to provide The View with clips from Idol. In response Barbara said, "They have a point. You cannot be insulting someone with your right hand and then asking them for clips for your show with the other."

Stephanie Travitsky Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 03:40 PM EST

This is Simon we are talking about here. He is the same genius who panned Carrie for doing Linda Rondstats version of "When will I be loved" and said he had no idea where that version came from. And I don't care what those judges think, Peanut kicks butt!

Juan Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 03:23 PM EST

Thank you ColbyFan: This all stems from Rosie's tirade on the View and she is wrong. I am a fan of Rosie's and The View but she needs to stop being so irresponsible with her comments. And correct me if I'm wrong, aren't (were) more than half of the females women of color?

colbyfan Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 03:10 PM EST

Okay - On msn right now next to their recap of the show last night is an article titled Is 'Idol' Racist? Um, Frenchie - underage porn vs. pix on the toilet is not a race issue.

To Sugar Plum from Ryan Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 03:03 PM EST

Sugar Plum,

Define popular? My version of popular is a song like All Mixed Up that in 1996 hit #36 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and #4 on the US Modern Rock chart. Not to mention that the song has been sampled in multiple TV shows and movies. I guess that is just my definition of a popular song.

Sugar Plum Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:50 PM EST

What are you guys talking about? The judges never said they never heard of 311. They said they never HEARD OF THE SONG. I've heard of 311, but I cannot remember that song. If you're not into alt music, then you probably don't know the song either if it wasn't popular. And from my understanding, "All Mixed Up" was never that popular. Please get a grip folks, especially you Whitney.

Nose Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:41 PM EST

I am still floored when people are surprised by this crap. This show is looking for the next sugary, bubble-gum, fresh-faced, Britney-esque sensation. The producers have no interest in hearing people sing interesting, off-the-beaten-path songs or doing something original. They want people who recycle Celine, Whitney, Stevie and Aretha, and Simon would be happy if every contestant sang Unchained Melody or You Raise Me Up. Does this still really make people pause? I haven't watched this season since Simon put a girl through to Hollywood for being "commercial with a capital C." This is not a singing competition, it is a pop star competition.

Kellyann Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:39 PM EST

You people obviously don't pay attention (that means you Whitney) The judges said they didn't recognize the song, not that they didn't know who 311 was. The song almost escaped me too but then the lightbulb went off like, "OH he's doing some bad 311 song!" Honestly when Sundance started off his rendition of Jeremy I almost didn't recognize that either. One because his version was just so BAD that I kept hoping he wasn't going to turn the song into everyone's worst nightmare but also because I couldn't believe he was singing PEARL JAM on American Idol of all things. Talk about the Apocalypse!!!

colbyfan Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:39 PM EST

Seriously, EW's review of Idol is just as skewed as the judges. Every season the TV Watch starts out with an open mind then clings to the most generic female contestant in the bunch, then continues to find 'news' or 'statistics' a la Taylor's slow album sales to support the point. Every year, someone who has promise but is inexperienced or someone who is artistically uncompromising gets lambasted - Love You, Chris R. & Chris Daughtrey (sp) - Then the boards fill up with teenagers & soccer moms who point the finger at each other for keeping crappy contestants. All the columns this week have been about how great the 5 R & B women are and I could not agree less. Boring!!! Bring on the semi-crappy / unsure & unsafe versions of current music & genres and let's see what happens when more weeks go by. Es tu, EW - Es Tu.

Matthew Brady Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:32 PM EST

Good point from Ryan - proving Ep Sato (and especially Whitney)wrong. Tino, if you want to get into DNC (Did not Chart) releases - of course Sublime did in 92. But, then again, 311 did in 90. Charted releases = '93 for 311 & '96 for Sublime. In either case - you're wrong.

Ed Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:31 PM EST

Who the hell cares who 311 is - BLAKE IS A FOX!

Ed Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:31 PM EST

Who the hell cares who 311 is - BLAKE IS A FOX!

Ed Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:31 PM EST

Who the hell cares who 311 is - BLAKE IS A FOX!

Jess Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:30 PM EST

It's not like 311 is some legendary group, and in a general sense they aren't relevant to AMERICAN IDOL. I don't see the big deal.

Jen Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:21 PM EST

I was also shocked they didn't know 311. Maybe it's because I was in high school when it came out and I listened to our local "alt music" radio station, but I swear that song was *everywhere* for at least two years. The judges' cluelessness sort of drove home the point that while they may say they want a current-sounding artist, they really only want to hear everybody sing Journey's "Open Arms" every week.

Joseph Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:20 PM EST

For all of you people who dislike/hate 311, you are all morons. 311 is a great group. 311's last album was released in 2005 (not tooo long ago). They have released 8 studio albums and 6/8 have been really good to excellent. Many bands would love to have similar consistency in their perormance.

Lori Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:19 PM EST

Hee! These three idiots didn't know the song and admitted it? Stupid. This season is shaping up to be the biggest train wreck ever and the judges just jumped the shark.

Why do we continue to let these three antiquated judges, judge an American Music Competition if they don't know any American Music past 1985 and Mariah Carey? And these same three haven't got a clue as to what's popular at the moment on American Radio. Rock and Alternative are back big and Rap/RB is on a steep decline. These three judges will only become more out of touch with the music being selected by these performers as the show progresses.


To Ep Sato from Ryan Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:17 PM EST

To Ep Sato -

Rage formed at the exact same time, if not later than 311 did. So 311 was not derived from Rage. 311 does state Fishbone as one of their major influences (along with The Cure, Tammy) and actually toured with Fishbone. Jamiroquai started around the same time as 311 and released their first studio album in 1993. Sublime and 311 toured together and released albums at the same time. Why don't you take a look at your common theme here...all the bands you listed broke out at the same time in the relatively same music genre..so of course they MIGHT have similar sound. Are you going to say Pearl Jam derived from the combination of Alice In Chains and Nirvana? Please, son.

Anne Marie Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:16 PM EST

I was pretty shocked that the judges didn't know 311. I'm not a big fan of 311, but I definitely know all their songs, and because I don't have any of their CDs, that means they were overplayed on the radio.

Pearl Jam is my favorite band, and I thought Sundance's performance was mediocre at best. My Simon-esque assessment is that it was something I would expect by a bad coverband in any bar in America.

I also can't believe that they have the rights to Jeremy. Remember last year when I think Clive Davis had to ask Bruce Springsteen personally if Taylor could sing Dancing in the Dark. I just assumed that it would be hard for AI to get songs by artists who are protective of their music.

Mattybrutal Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:11 PM EST

w00t for me! Call the grammar police on 'to Mattybrutal'. FYI Shakespeare, it's “there's” not “theirs”.

Anyway, you're comparing the Beatles to 311? please... Go listen to your new nickelback CD or something.

to Ep Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:06 PM EST

You could have just made your point with Fishbone. lol

Ep Sato Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:02 PM EST

Oh, and following up on my "popwatch keeps talking about drugs" comment on another post, their mention of 311 as a stoner band is the fourth mention of something drug related in the last week or so.

What's being smoked in the EW office that there's a newfound passion for drugs in Popwatch?

Ep Sato Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 02:01 PM EST

I've never been a fan of 311 and never understood why so many of my stoner buddies in college were such fans. IMHO, the sound was derived from combining Sublime, Rage, Fishbone, Jamiroquai, Mr. Bungle, and maybe the Beastie Boys, but I was always unimpressed by the result.

That said, they were a big enough band in the 1990's that people in the music industry should know who they are.

jkov Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:58 PM EST

311 is one of my favorite bands and have been releasing great records for over 10 years. They tour constantly and even hold their own festival, "311 Day", on March 11th.shame on the judges!

also, i think the house band really hurt Sundance's rendition of "jeremy". they couldnt hold down the bass line!

Tino Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:54 PM EST

A lot of wrong information in the comments section today. 311 is not current. American Idol is not anti-musician. If you want to blame the man for your musical failings, blame Clear Channel - I promise you. And hate to break it to the 311 fans, 311 did come after Sublime. Sublime's first album was 1992. And lastly, 311 isn't that great, but the judges should absolutely know who they are. Embarassing.

Ryan Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:53 PM EST

I agree with some of you and can understand Paula and Simon not really knowing 311. Randy is pretty fake though if he can't recognize a band that has had 2 songs (Down and Love Song) at #1 on the US Modern Rock Chart. The song Blake performed, 'All Mixed Up' is off their self-titled 1995 blue album, 311. This album went 3X Platnum.


Plus how can you not love a band whose singer broke his knuckles punching no-talent Scott Stapp from lame Creed in the face.

to mattybrutal Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:48 PM EST

theirs always 1 anus in the crowd who throws out the year. so when u hear the beatles penny lane being played on the radio, do u say this wouldve been cooler in 1967???

Stephanie Travitsky Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:33 PM EST

Did I hear that right? Sundance did "Jermey"? Why?? I mean no offense, he has a great voice. My dad said it best: "that Meninite can sing!". lol. There are some songs and styles that some voices can fit into, and this is where Sundance has this problem. Sundance can only do blues and soul. He can't do alternative. Blues might sell well on the Country charts right now since there seems to be a small influence on it. If Sundance makes it to the 12 which I hope he does, he needs to learn where his strength lies.

Scott Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:30 PM EST

I agree with betsy. I actually think Blake is better than this show and secretly hope he makes it no further than third place so he can be picked up by a decent label and record some really good music. Not the typical AI drivel they're made to record (see Taylor and Bo Bice's CDs).

And I'm not surprised if Simon hasn't heard the song, not really his style. But, someone pointed out that the judges said they didn't know the song, there were no comments made about whether they've heard of 311. And to be honest, I actually own that 311 CD and liked that song when it was out in the 90s. But, when I heard Blake singing it I knew I recognized it, but, couldn't remember who sang the original until they mentioned 311's name.

Elizabeth Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:28 PM EST

I agree, Whitney. How in the world had the three judges of the biggest singing competition ever not recognize "All Mixed Up?" I love that song and Blake did a great job.

to Kevin Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:20 PM EST

The producers have nothing to do with song choice at this point. To me the biggest surprises of the night were the non-knowledge of 311 and that Eddie Vedder allowed the song to be performed on the show. He is notorious about control of his music so it's not diluted.

to Miki Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:18 PM EST

I could totally see Madonna on Broadway AND Manilow nights. Have you heard of a little movie called "Evita"

juan Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:16 PM EST

I thought it was odd that never heard the song too. 1) It had been used in at least one high profile ad campaign (Sprite, and I believe it was also used for a mobile phone campaign) 2) How do they know about Keane and not 311, who I think has had better sales and chart history.

Kevin K Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:11 PM EST

I meant "none of them CAN do the songs justice."

Mki Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:08 PM EST

Most artists and musicians would never make it as the next American Idol. Can you imagine Madonna on Broadway or Manilow nights? Maybe Moby would "do it in his own style"? Maybe 50 Cent would enjoy country rapping. They're looking for a very narrow, specific type of singer with "charm". Most talented musicians and artists would not make it. I can hear Simon now, "C'mon, Prince, can't you do something younger than doves crying? And what's with the crazy name and eyes?" Idol is what it is, and the judges know exactly what they want.

Kevin K Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:08 PM EST

Oh come on folks. Who's really suprised that the three of them didn't know this song? You have an over-the-hill producer, a sugar coated pop princess, and a Brit who probably thinks NME is a sexually transmitted disease! What's ironic is that Idol is actually allowing some decent songs on their show, so SOME producer must know what he's doing in terms of material. Too bad none of these guys can't do the songs justice.

Matthew Brady Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 01:07 PM EST

Whitney - You're as ignorant as the judges and most of the posters if you believe "All Mixed Up" is a Sublime knock off. The song was recorded before Sublime's release. Do your homework before you eclipse even Paula Abdul's credibility.

Mattybrutal Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:59 PM EST

yea, this would have been cooler if it was the year 1996

To Kevin Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:47 PM EST

First, these aren't muscicians, second, you sound bitter you haven't been discovered.

Sarah Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:42 PM EST

I first heard of 311 in college, and I'll admit I'm not a big fan. I also don't really like Jason Mraz. However, I do think Blake is one of the top guys this year, and the fact that he isn't singing the same repetitive ballads and cheesy oldies that everyone else chooses makes me like him even when I don't like the songs.

Regarding his beat boxing and sound effects - the judges ASKED him to do it. The first week onstage he just sang and they told him he needed to bring it back. They're the ones pigeon holing him into being "that beat box guy".

Kevin Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:37 PM EST

I hate this show so much. It's an insult to real musicians.

Ryan Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:33 PM EST

No Captain Obvious, I mean Tammy, I did not know Love Song was by The Cure. 311 only states that The Cure is one of their main influences and every single time they perform that song live they give the song the proper respect and credit it deserves. And you are trying to be a jerk for stating something so goddamn obvious.

AC Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:32 PM EST

I was shocked as well. I thought it was Sublime at first, but for people in the music biz they should at least recognize the song!

RED Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:32 PM EST

Atleast Blake is trying to be current and original...he's not picking freakin' Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion songs - which at this point should all be banned from the show or are an automatic dismissal - I would love to see the Idol songbook, they really must have a hard time getting rights to newer songs, it's the same songs every year! You think contestants would learn not to sing songs that people from the previous winning years sang ie: Chris Sligh singing "Trouble" which Taylor Hicks blew out of the water! so frustrating watching...Blake is good, out of everyone else there ( in the guys) he should go on...

Hey Tammy Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:31 PM EST

I don't think that has anything to do with it being a Cure song first- Ryan was just stating that that song was a hit when they performed it. Geez.

betsy Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:24 PM EST

Whitney - are you that naive? It is 19 records who produces the show, right? Why would they have any interest in alt music? It's against their financial interests (why do you think the early 90's alt music craze "died" within a decade and pop returned?) At least until Blake busts this competition wide open and wins. Then Clive will find a way to manipulate his alt style to sound crappy and mainstream. If only he could work it to get 3rd place like Elliott so he'll have more creative control over his album. Just keep picking "obscure" songs that the public loves but the judges "don't get." That's what Elliott did!

Tammy Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:23 PM EST

Oh, yeah. Ryan? I'm not trying to be a jerk, but you do know that Love Song was originally by the Cure, right? I might not know 311, but I do know the Cure.

Joe C Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:20 PM EST

I'll play along, Whit. This isn't a rock and roll oriented contest, this is a pop/R&B contest, so I'm not surprised they hadn't heard of 311. Hey, I hadn't heard of them either until last night, and I was pretty up on music in the 90's.

Tammy Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:20 PM EST

I know the song, but it didn't make much of an impact on me back in the day, it was just aural wallpaper to me. I would've never been able to say who performed it, and I'm not embarrassed to admit that.

Lucky7 Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:20 PM EST

Marshall - I agree. The show's feeling really old, with all the outdated song choices and the scant traces of anything youthful (besides Blake). Are they trying to find a pop star or not? I love Doolittle and I wouldn't want an Idol that doesn't have a place for her, but the show is skewing way too old.

I think the producers should step in on song choices. It's not like the winner will have complete control over the kind of record they make anyway. Also, there should be one night when the fans pick the song. Each contestant would field requests online for a week, choose 3 songs as options (not limited to the suggestions, but taking them to heart) and then have fans vote on which song they'll sing. This way, the contestant isn't stuck with a song they'd never have chosen. It's a nice compromise. And the result wouldn't be revealed until the night of the show.

Bill Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:16 PM EST

I think the biggest crime is beat-boxing on American Idol. Unless you're one of the Fat Boys, you really don't need to be doing that...

This is the first week I've caught this season. Please tell me this clown doesn't beat box everything freaking week.

Ryan Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:16 PM EST

You'd think between 'All Mixed Up', 'Down', 'Amber' and 'Love Song' that one of the monstertard judges would've heard of 311. Blake butchered the song and can't sing for crap. Hopefully more people would listen to 311 now and realize how gifted this band is.

www.myspace.com/311
www.311.com

Marshall Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:08 PM EST

311 kinda sucks, but that was a crazy cool idea and he's cute too.

I think the judges are kind of in over their heads at this point. Not to say that the boys are all that great this year, but clearly the show needs some major judge talent overhaul. They say the same things, offer little insight to performance. It's all getting so redundant. Randy's meaningless yapping and "Dawg" is cringeworthy. Poor Paula just looks excruciatingly bored at this point. Even Simon cannot be counted on anymore to say anything interesting. His judging has evolved to just schtick. "here's the evil thing I'll say" "here's a random simile for being bored" "here's a out of left field gushy compliment"

Randy doesn't know who 311 is? He calls himself a producer? He could learn a thing or 2 from that band's sound and stop talking about f**ing Journey. Good Lord.

Anyway, this show could be a lot better. They need to FIRE all the producers and talent scouts, get better judges on the live show. OVERHAUL!

Elizabeth Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:05 PM EST

It wasn't clear that they had never heard of the group, just that particular song.

kc Wed, Mar 7, 2007 at 12:02 PM EST

I couldn't believe that Randy, the king of name dropping, couldn't recognize the song. I thought he knew everyone in the music biz?

More Comments »

advertisement

Add Your Comments

The rules: Keep it clean, and stay on the subject — or we may delete your comment. If you see inappropriate language, e-mail us. An asterisk (*) indicates a required field.



  • 1000 characters remaining
      • When you click on the "Post Comment" button above to submit your comments, you are indicating your acceptance of and are agreeing to the Terms of Service. You can also read our Privacy Policy.
Latest Comments
Top Categories

All Categories

Blog Roll
Top Authors
Recent Posts
PopWatch Archive
July 2009
S M T W T F S
      1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30 31  

Complete Archive