American Idol does Motown

American Idol does Motown

'American Idol' Top 11 Does Motown Proud -- So Who Deserves to Go Home?

Wednesday evening's "American Idol" may have exhibited the best all-around night of performances in the show's 10-year history. Although some contestants stood out, there truly was not a bad performance in the 11 offerings for "Motown Week." That said, one of them will be voted off the show -- unless the judges decide to use their one and only "Save" of the season, which, given the quality of performances, wouldn't be a terrible idea -- or would it?

The Top 11, all of whom seemed to be over the bout of viruses that had overtaken them the week before, took on the Motown sound with surprising results. Even Lauren Alaina and Scotty McCreery, whose country music roots show each week, were able to give the signature Motown sound a unique twist.

The most disappointing performance may have been Stefano Langone's somewhat over-the-top version of Lionel Richie's "Hello." Although sung well, he did not seem to have an emotional connection to the song -- and the judges noticed, calling him on it.

Thia Megia, the youngest performer still alive in Season 10, performed Martha and the Vandellas' "Heat Wave." Again, although sung well, there was a presentation problem. No matter what she sings, Megia unfortunately appears "pageanty" -- like she's some pageant performer offering her talent routine.

Thia Megia

Thia Megia

Thia Megia, Jacob Lusk praised on 'America Idol's Motown episode - which contestant will be eliminated?

Thia Megia heated up the "American Idol" stage on Wednesday, March 23, with her rendition of the 1963 fast-paced hit "(Love Is Like A) Heat Wave" as the remaining 11 contestants performed during "Motown Week."
Megia, 16, earned praise from the judges after appearing to bore them the previous week with her cover of the ballad "Colors of the Wind," from the soundtrack of Disney's "Pocahontas."

"It was great to see you let loose like that," judge Jennifer Lopez told Megia. "Who knew you had that in you? I didn't."

Meanwhile, Jacob Lusk, 23, earned a standing ovation for his rendition of the 1968 song "You're All I Need to Get By" by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell.

Judge Steven Tyler rushed up on stage and hugged Lusk following his performance.