by Todd Betzold

 

It is finally in the hands of America, as the top 12 on The X Factor are singing for America's votes and not the judges anymore.

 

Up first are The Stereo Hogzz and they take on "Rhythm Nation" by Janet Jackson and I wasn't feeling it at first, but they kicked it in in the middle. I don't know if it was so much their vocals, but the production they put on on that stage was amazing. Great choreography and lots of excitement...I enjoyed it.

 

Chris Rene is next and I loved him early in the show, but the past couple weeks he has been disappointing me. It continued tonight, as I wasn't too impressed with this performance. He seemed to be struggling and I didn't enjoy it.

 

At 59 years old, Leroy Bell gets to show America what he's got and try to win them over for votes. I did not like the arrangement of this song, so it had its ups and downs for me. He has some amazing vocals though and I did get chills at times...I guess I just wanted more from him.

 

Now time for one of my girls, Rachel Crow. No again, I did not like the song choice and the arrangement was weird to me, but this girl can sing. Even through that, I loved her. She's so gosh darn cute, how can you not like her??

 

Lakoda Rayne gets to show off their skills and Paula has put them out there each representing a season, which Simon and L.A. aren't feeling, but will America? So, I have never been a fan of this group and it continued tonight. I just don't know how they are still in it. They had good vocals at times, but they just seem awkward together on the stage...still seem to be trying to mesh as a group.

 

I won't call him a burrito-slinger anymore, because I am sick of hearing it...so, Josh Krajcik is up next, another one of my faves. A beautiful job by Josh and he will be a frontrunner during this show...he has great vocals.

 

One of the biggest frontrunners, Melanie Amaro, is up next and I am excited to see what she does this week. Besides looking absolutely gorgeous, she just belted out an amazing performance. If people don't vote for her and put her into the finals, then the show is a farce.

 

Time for some rapping, as we get to see Astro. Here is my take on Astro: the kid is very talented and puts on a good show...however, I just don't know if he is someone that can win over America's vote, which is sad. Like Paula said, hopefully Jay-Z has his eye on him!

 

The kids are up, as Intensity takes the stage. Is this The X Factor or is this The Glee Project? These kids are good and it was fun, but like I have said before they belong on tour for Disney or Glee, but with being able to vote by texting, I think the teen girls will be sending this group far into the competition.

 

She blew everyone away last week, but will Drew be able to keep it up? She has a great tone to her voice, which I love. I feel it wasn't shown that much in this song. I enjoyed it, but didn't like this song for her.

 

Marcus Candy has his chance to shine, as he gets his time in the spotlight. I really liked this. Marcus is very entertaining and meant to be on stage. Great dance moves and good vocals...a great show going on up on that stage.

 

Last, but certainly not the least, is my girl Stacy Francis. Looking absolutely gorgeous herself, Stacy put it all out there and nailed it tonight. Catch her in the finals, as well! Amazing vocals and an amazing song.

 

Find out who will be sent home tomorrow night when The X Factor airs at 8/7c on Fox.

 

(Image courtesy of Fox)

 

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