American Idol eliminated a female contestant and determined its Top 11 artists during the first live show of its fourteenth season Thursday night on Fox.
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American Idol host Ryan Seacrest announced the Top 11 artists one at a time based on the home-viewers vote and then each singer was asked to perform a song that got "the party started." Everyone's name was called except for Sarina-Joi, which ultimately revealed she was on the chopping block.
Sarina-Joi then got to sing for the one "Judges' Save" of the season that expires at the Top 5. She took the stage with "Neon Lights" by Demi Lovato.
However, Idol judges Jennifer Lopez, Keith Urban and Harry Connick Jr. decided not to use the save because it's so early on and someone has to go home every week.
"It's okay, it's okay," Sarina-Joi repeated following her ouster.
The stars of the night were Tyanna Jones, a 16-year-old student from Jacksonville, FL, and Joey Cook, a 23-year-old server from Woodbridge, VA.
Tyanna sang "Tightrope" by Janelle Monae. Both Keith and Jennifer gave her a standing ovation. Jennifer said she had so much control and just sparkles on-camera like a natural. Harry -- the most critical judge -- gave her a huge compliment in saying that if he was a judge in the Olympics, he'd give that performance a 10.
Joey sang her own rendition of "Fancy" by Iggy Azalea. Her unique style and flair got a standing ovation from Keith. Harry called her arrangement brilliant as well as her singing. He gave her an A+.
As for the rest of the artists, below is a list of what they sang and a summary of the judges' praise or criticism.
Rayvon Owen, a 23-year-old singer and vocal coach from Richmond, VA, sang "Burn" by Ellie Goulding and the judges said it was his best performance so far.
Maddie Walker, a 16-year-old student from Ankeny, IA, performed "She's Country" by Jason Aldean. Jennifer noted she can really sing and loves how she's both sassy and sweet.
Clark Beckham, a 22-year-old street performer from Whitehouse, TN, sang "Takin' it to the Streets" by The Doobie Brothers. Keith wanted more feeling and inspiration behind his amazing voice. His vocal talent, however, was undeniable.
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Jax, an 18-year-old musician from East Brunswick, NJ, took the stage with "Blank Space" by Taylor Swift. Jennifer explained it wasn't the right song because it swallowed her. It didn't allow for her artistry and little mannerisms to shine.
Qaasim Middleton, an 18-year-old student from Brooklyn, NY, performed "Jet" by Paul McCartney & Wings. Harry said the performance didn't match what the song was trying to say, however, Keith noted it was the best vocal he's give to date.
Adanna Duru, an 18-year-old student from Diamond Bar, CA, sang "Runaway Baby" by Bruno Mars. She improved immensely, especially with singing in tune and being in control of her stage presence. Keith said she showed why she deserved to be one of their two Wild Card picks.
Daniel Seavey, a 15-year-old student from Portland, OR, sang "Happy" by Pharrell Williams. While it was his strongest performance yet, the judges worry he may not be able to hang with the more experienced singers.
Quentin Alexander, a 21-year-old retail associate from New Orleans, LA, performed "Rolling in the Deep" by Adele. Everyone loved the energy of the song but Harry said he didn't convey the meaning of the lyric.
Nick Fradiani, a 29-year-old musician from Guilford, CT, sang "Wake Me Up" by Aloe Blacc. He did an excellent job with the song but Harry is waiting for him to open up more and explode. He sings as if he's holding back.
About The Author: Elizabeth Kwiatkowski
