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March 31st, 2009
09:25 PM ET
Top 9: Kris Allen ends it on a high noteI hope some of the other piano men were taking notes.  Kris took to the keys with his rendition of Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine," and out of all of the songs tonight, his is the one that would have found a home on my iPod. He said he was attempting to have a moment, and he did it. Loved the voice and the entire performance. Kris has stepped up his game! –Lisa Respers France, CNN.com writer |
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Kris is not a pro or semi-pro like some of the other contestants. That is what I like about Kris. He also showed that besides being a singer he is a musician and arranges music.
I really like Kris. I loved his studio version of Make You Feel My Love and this week's song, too.
I haven't voted since Season 2, but he's tempting me.
Kris should win. Terrific job on one of my all-time favorite songs.
He deserves to win...he won't be a big star, but he'll do better than Taylor Hicks (BTW, has anyone seen him lately, I'm worried...maybe someone should put out a missing persons report).
Kris is quietly and solidly original (unlike that awful circus act Adam) and he gets better every week. He can also play guitar and keyboards.
The only downside are the funny monkey faces he makes when singing...he looks ridiculous.
I agree that Chris is a dark horse. He is very Jason Mraz-ish. I adore Adam but frankly, I think it is unfair that he is even in this competition. Adam is in a different league altogether. Megan (ridiculous), Scott and Matt must go. Matt has a death wish, people. He needs to be dancing, singing soul and certainly not attempting to rock out.
My advice to Chris is that he needs some clothes styling. Too bland. Whereas Alllison is over the top. But she is an old soul and amazingly talented. Cannot believe her instrument, at any age, let alone 16.
Love AI
I've been ragging on him for being boring. But he was excellent last night. Only one complaint:
How can you perform that song with a string quartet and leave out the beautiful phrase the strings play during the chorus? I was waiting for it, but it never came...
Oh well. Good for you Kris! Hope you leach some votes away from Adam 😛
Kris is good. How can anyone like Adam. Can you imagine listening to him in the car? All he does is scream all the time. Adam should be voted off.
One of my favs, looks like Freddie Prinze Jr, definitely a cutie! And love his singing. He will be one of the finalists.
Awesome!!! Absolutely the best of the night! I had to rewind and watch it several times, and that's the first time I've felt compelled to do so all season. Well done, Kris!
Chris version is as good as the original. I hope he will get a record of his own and definitely his fan. He got magic in his voice. In this competition, I am really looking forward to see his next rendition. So is Adam and Matt Giraud.
Kris is a sailing slowly to the FINALS, he is an awsome guy with no attitude. he is going to be the next American Idol. Kris, you are the one.
Kris lives in my home town, Conway, and is going to UCA there. He's not a professional, but after this competition I'm sure he will be. You did great, Kris. I see you taking this all the way. You have my vote til the end.
I totally agree, I believe he is the contestant to beat.
I totally don't get all the praise for Chris's performance. I thought it was bland and boring. His last note was so forced, his face looked like he was taking a dump.
I have to admit I have a bit of a man crush on Kris... Absolutely the Best of the night!!!!
I don't think he'll win it all, but Kris has what it takes to make it to the top 3. He'll have to outperform Adam and Alison (and hope they mess up). But I doubt that will happen. Adam and Alison are clearly way above the rest. But even if Kris doesn't win, he'll get a contract somewhere and he'll be happy. Look what happened to Jennifer Hudson.
kris good job you are the one to watch
Kris is my 3rd favorite in this compitition behind Adam and Matt. But his performance of Ain't No Sunshine blew Matt's performance away by miles!!! I see him improving every week and making people sit up and take notice of him. If I weren't so biased in my devotion to Adam, I might say Kris had the best performance of the night!
The stupidest thing IDOL has done was to add the 4th judge-Kara Dioguardi. Really, she is clueless, knows nothing music. 9 out of 10 time she just repeats everyone that co me out of Randy's mouth. I hope she not brought back next season. Seems to me that she is nothing but a trouble maker, not to mention she knows nothing about music
Very nice, Kris! Have always loved this song, and I think you made me love it more.
Great Job! Enough Said.
Kris' voice was fine but his facial expressions are very distracting. What's up with that?
Kris was awesome! I was recording it and I had to watch over again. He did his thing that night.
Kris – TOTALLY love you!! Keep doing your thing and we'll see you in the finale.
I'd like to hear you sing some DMB!
Do we really need to even keep watching. This kid has got it completely in the bag.
Exhibit A: He can sing
Exhibit B: He doesn't over sing (like everyone else)
Exhibit C: He doesn't look like a goof ball (like everyone else)
I rest my case.
He's gonna win.
Love Him! Love Him! Love Him!
Talented, Smart, and Gifted!
I think Kris is a nice guy, but I just don't get why all the praise from the judges. I find his voice boring. Looks like I'm in the minority though!
Kris doesn't get enough recognition... he has not had a bad performance yet. he gets better and better every week...... i honestly think he deserves to win but i know he wont because every male in the world is voting for adam lambert, haha. kris is definitely going to sell records!!
Kris is growing on me each week!!! I always said that I see Danny and Adam in the finals. I think Danny needs to watch out because the more I see Kris the more I see an Adam and Kris final.
Hands down the best of the night. Far beyond anything Adam could do! I'll go with Kris, then Matt, then Lil, then Allison. I don't like Megan, but I think she's better than Adam!
Go Kris!
KRIS ALLEN #1.....YOU ARE GREAT (LOOKS LIKE NICK LASHAY)
DANNY GOKEY #2...YOU ARE TOO
BOTH WILL HAVE A GREAT FUTURE IN THE MUSIC WORLD!!!!!!!!!
It was definitely his moment. I hadn't paid him much attention before last night–very impressive.
Chris is a winner. I see him in the top two.
Wow – he is the most amazing young man. If someone doesn't sign him to a record deal – I sure will.
Adam and Danny are the most talented and versatile. You all like Kris b/c he is attractive. The reality is, if you were to re-watch the end of this performance, it was a COMPLETE stretch for him to hit the last note. He has NO range whatsoever. He is a BUMBLING IDIOT with an instrument. He is COMPLETELY average. The judges like him b/c he is marketable. This song was within his range. Quite frankly, take away the indulgent strings and keyboard, and you would switch the radio station. Lets see Kris take a bad song choice (like Lil Rounds did) and still wow you with his pipes. can't do it. He belongs in a starbucks singing elevator music while you're sipping a double-tall latte and don't care b/c you're so caffeinated.
Kris stepped up his game and for me as a member of a family who all play keyboards – Bang on dude. It is awesome to see a young talent who plays more than one instrument. He also showed more vocal abilities in this performance. Before tonight I liked him but wasn't like "wow this guy's really great" but now he is up there in the top for me. He may not have Adam's flair for putting on a "crazy" show because he has a laid back style but his performances are becoming increasingly enjoyable and memorable and surprising! I like Matt,Danny,Allison and L'il but they have lost some of their wow factor after seeing Kris last night. Think about who has had consistently solid performances and who has gotten better not stayed the same or fallen short for their skills? Who doesn't have just great pipes or is just a good performer because of stage prescence or is different but who is a true artist? Who always delivers and improves and surprises? For me after last night still Adam and now Kris. Allison and l'il still have their pipes but those performances didn't do them justice at all. Megan, even though unique, she's had enough chances. Scott earned alittle more time but won't "catch – up" Anoop – disappointing last night. Matt – not picking the right songs to show his stuff. Danny was Danny still like him but was not "wowed."
think that kris is the most consistently good....a great talent
Kris is probably the most consistent performer but has failed to take it over the top which unfortunately will be his demise. He is by far my favorite in this competition. If it were just a singing competition he would definitely take home the prize.
BORING....he is the same each week...needs to mix it up. you forget about him..bland.
He is average. Good singer, but agree with a previous comment: if I close my eyes and hear the song I would not be able to tell it was him singing. He is forgetable. Adam is the star of this season and the winner in my opinion.
I think Kris has been delivering good sound performances for three weeks now. I put him in the top three–Adam, Kris and Danny (and then Allison). I predict it will come down to those three toward the end and that Kris's true rival is Adam, who he will have a hard time beating in the end. The spoiler could be Danny, who could step up his game, and maybe Kris could come out on top, if Adam implodes (but I doubt it).
This was the best of the night. Great song and he made it even better. I would buy this one. Handsome young man, tons of talent, delivered a memorable performance. Good job, now I am a fan.
Great choice of song...I love "Ain't No Sunshine". He will win this thing in a close one.
I thought Kris did a fantastic job tonight. I've thought he was a front runner from the beginning, but didn't know how much of a chance he would be given. Fortunately, the producers have allowed him the opportunity to display his talents lately. He seems like a normal guy – but he has all of the components necessary to make a future star – a) the looks; b) the talent (most importantly); c) the ability to play multiple instruments; d) the obvious fundamental understanding of music and how to write and arrange it; e) must I even go on. Most importantly, he appears to be "moldable" – something the record companies want – they can take him and make him into a machine that can sell records. Go Kris – you're my longshot bet for AI's top spot.
I absolutely agree...He was original and awesome. I fell a little bit in love with him tonight. Adam Lambert is always good, but all that screeching and howling gets a bit old. I enjoy watching him, but I can't really imagine going out to get his CD. Based on this evening's performance, I would buy Chris Allen's CD in a heartbeat.
Group 1: Danny and Adam
Group 2: Chris and Matt (though he was not good tonight)
The rest honestly don't matter right now.
Kris does not get enough recognition for his talent........Best song of the night!
BRILLIANT take on that song! He outdid Gokey and Matt...very original and moving performance – except the last two or theree notes. He's easily top 5 – he's cute, tries to be original (and doing a good job at that) and a very emotive singer! I like him but unless he does what he does tonight in his album, I probably won't buy it.
I agree with Kris in top 4! Adam, Allison then Kris and Danny.
Kris is definitely a cutie pie! And his wife is cute too. I bet they will have plenty of cute babies in the future.
Good Luck!
Sorry but this guy is not good at all. He was only average. What was so good about it? Is voice wasn't extraordinary.
It was good, but in my opinion it was a complete rip off of Adam's performance last week....i was shocked to hear the judges talking about how "original' it was...both the presentation and singing was identical to Adam's
what was up with his mustache?!
And calling him the dark horse? Thats been Allison from the get go. He's more of the sunny pony. He did do alright tonight thats for sure. Just not blown away by it, but it was alright . Better than Megan, what is up with that girl and her concieted self?
Kudos to Kris. He's talented, interesting and deserves his "new" top spot in the competition.
Absolutely terrific performance. Best of the night.
Kris is starting to win me over. When I first saw him I thought he was just another performer we see everywhere who is long on "the look" but short on talent. I was too quick in my judgment obviously. He's getting better with each week.
It doesn't matter if this guy wins or not.....I would buy his CD. He's awesome.
I am soa Kris fan. Like Jason Castro he is a darling unique talent and I think he should be number one.
I thought Kris did awesome this week. I really enjoyed his performance. In my opinion there were only 4 that should stay and the rest could go home
Best performance of the night! And his wife is soooo beautiful. Wow, he has it all. I will admit that I am jealous. I wouldn't be suprised if he did win... well, I wouldn't be shocked anyway.
Kris is a good singer, but he doesn't have the range, control, or power that some of the other singers have. He is awfully cute, though. He'll last a while, but I don't think he'll win if people vote on singing skills.
I've been all about Allison & Adam until tonight. Kris has always been cute, sweet, all that Arkansas stuff, but I didn't think he had much in the way of chops.
Then, he goes and does one of my Top 10 and absolutely nails it. Gorgeous, babe. I'll be happy with any of those three as #1.
Adam is not as good as some of you think. He's overrated and will not sell many CDs nor will he wiin AI.
You are now one of my favorites! good song,great job and you sure are good looking!
This guy is a pro. It's no surprise he is so good after seeing him once or twice. I'm guessing he has a lot of experience performing. I'm not knockin. Just sayin. The guy is just good. He's not undiscovered talent. I'm sure there are a lot of people out there who know of this guy on a local/regional scale.
Kris, Matt and Adam - top three in my opinion
I've been waiting this season for a performance which I can replay and replay like last year's Imagine. I think this was it. The dude was very very good.
He's an awesome singer but i agree he seems to not have the exposure that the others have, C'mon Kris lets step it up.
Kris is the BEST ! Every week he is right there on top !!!
I'm buying every one of his videos from all the idol shows. The songs are great and his performances are fantastic !!
You have my vote Kris. Best of luck !!!!
Kris is a true vocalist. Not just a singer.
The difference....A singer just takes notes and blurts them out in no form or reason. A vocalist understands that the chords are an instrument and they play it as such. The boy has an instrument and plays it to perfection.
Really like this kid...didn't at the beginning...
Haven't heard one bad comment the last few weeks from the judges!!! It's all about ARTISTRY, and Kris has got it!!
Does anybody else think they will pull the save out at the end to have a dramatic threesome in the final round?
Loved it!!
I've been a fan of Kris' for a few weeks, but tonight he was truly GREAT! I can't wait to watch him again next week. I thought Danny's performance was very touching, but Kris took my breath away! The two of them were by far the best tonight!
You know, I really really like this guy. I love the different faces that Adam brings to the stage. Very entertaining. But I am beginning to think that Kris may be in this for the long haul. And I'll be rooting for him.
I loved his performance! He is my American Idol!
American Idol contestants have so much competition going on this year between them. The only one I do not like is Megan. Danny and Adam are my top favorites and they leave me begging for more. Both provided stellar performances again this week.
Consider closing your eyes and just LISTENING to the singing. Kris leads the pack when you focus on the voice, interpretation, and artistry alone. And how do most of us receive our music? Aurally or visually? Yes, we LISTEN to radio, CDs, and downloads. I love Danny and am intrigued by Adam, but for pure musicality, this guy is great.
Kris is very talented and cute...2nd place ...........BUt ...... Adam is the star we will choose for Idol..........Danny for 3rd place
Great performance tonight!
Who is this guy? Never remember him from week to week until he takes the stage...then I realize why. B-O-R-I-N-G
Wow. This boy is talented in so many ways. Blazing Hot!
Loved it!!!!!!! He now has both my respect and attention. Consider my heartstrings pulled. 🙂
Absolutely awesome tonight! I'm not sure if he can make it all the way though because he isn't consistent each week, but if he continues the way he did tonight, he can be the next winner.
Greatsong for Kris, he made it his own. I would buy it today
I am not a Kris fan but tonight's performance ROCKED! He was in Adam's league tonight!
BRAVO Kris!
The best of the night, a boring night though
Herbert – I had never heard of Eva Cassidy. I just went to I Tunes and listened to a couple of her songs and ended up downloading 3 of them. Thank you mentioning her!!
From one Arkansan to another...YOU ARE FREAKING AWESOME...You are representing Arkansas very well...We are all proud of you!!!!!!!
You get better and better each week...I agree with all the judges...this one of your best performances...I had goosebumps (that's a good thing as Kara would say).
The best performance of the night. This guy has mad talent. He just has to be consistent.
Kris,
It goes without saying that you are very handsome, the camera loves you and tonight you made this a competition!
One tiny little criticism- lose the mustache!!!! Your face (especially your mouth), is too beautiful to hide!
Keep blowing us away wih your talent!
I've like Kris from the beginning. Each weeks he just keeps getting better. I'd love to see him to all way to the final.
Cute but too much of a baby
This was an awesome end – I am really starting to like this guy and I do agree with all of you that he could be the season dark horse and tkae this all the way – I would love him to make at least top 3
This guy is definitely the dark horse of the show. I'd say he's in the top four (Adam, Allison, Danny...and Kris). He really surprised me with playing the piano, and he's making great song choices, and adding a contemporary twist. Kris has the advantage of being able to play multiple instruments, and arranging the music to fit his abilities and talent. I thought Matt would be in fourth position, but Kris is passing him by. If he keeps going the way he has the past three weeks, Kris may have a lock on the top three. From there...who knows? Top two?
huge fan of kris. amazing performance. LOVED it.
Check out Eva Cassidy's rendition on "Ain't no Sunshine". Kris was good but hardly original.
THIS is your next American Idol. What a honey boy too!
I thought he was great from the beginning too and not getting much attention for some reason. He shines more and more every week. Good luck Kris!
If I closed my eyes and listened to the song would I be able to tell it was Kris singing? No.
Good singer but yet bland.
Yes Joe – that has to be a joke.
Kris...LOVED THE SONG!!!! Good job!
Best performance of the night!
he has been forgotten about but tonight he rocked
WOW! It was my first night to watch this season. Kris should go all the way. I'd advance buy his CD right now!
Beautiful. If he released an album tomorrow I would buy it. I hope people realize his talent without all the show and swagger of some of the other contestants; he doesn't need it.
Great performance by Kris tonight. He is just the cutest guy ever. Loved him on the keys.
Scott will win AI? Wow...so he does have a fan.
Kris is good, but I don't think he is better than Matt, Danny, or Adam.
Joe, you are kidding right? Please tell me you are!
Dark Horse? This guy for sure will make it to the top two with Scott BUT Scott will win all the way.
He's really good. Solid performances. I think each week more and more people will notice him and he could be a front runner.
Sorry I missed it ... I was too busy blogging about Adam!!
Kris, as Kara would say, I have 4 words for you. YOU WERE THE BEST TONIGHT BY A MILE. Another $.99 for iTunes. You and Adam in the final 2.
TOTALLY agree with you Lisa!!! Awesome!
I"m bummed that Kris doesn't get more attention. He's given awesome performances each week and still no whoop whoop like there is for Adam. Keep rockin' Kris!
He sounds great.
Really didn't remember who he was before tonight. Loved it!
Kris is the dark horse of this competition. He could easily come through and win it all! Watch out for him...