It’s a bold step when singers step out of their own genre and belts out a tune that you wouldn’t expect from them. It’s an even bolder step when that song is by Mariah Carey and the singer is a male, but that’s exactly what Danny Gokey did on Tuesdays airing of American Idol.
Singing Mariah Carey’s “Hero” Gokey relied on a controlled emotional performance (His wife passed a few days before auditions had begun), using runs sparingly yet effectively. Gokey’s voice was crisp and emotional, a welcomed changed from the attempted “polished” renditions oftentimes undertaken by Idol Contestants.
Throughout his performance, Gokey appeared to know the stage well playing to the audience, judges and cameras all in tandem while never straining to find his voice.
Was his pitch perfect? Far from it. Was his song breathtaking? Only in its simplicity and that’s why I loved it, he didn’t try to make himself look like the next American Idol, instead he sung like he was already the winner, that’s what I consider the true working of an Idol, you don’t have to show America you deserve to win, you already know you do.
Danny has relied on the more emotional offerings throughout his auditions, it will be interesting to see him sing Broadway tunes or happy-go-lucky songs as the season progresses. Right now, however, I find him to be the main contender to watch.
Danny Gokey is True “Hero” of American Idol Round 1
– February 25, 2009Posted in: American Idol, News/Articles
