LIFE UPDATE!

So a few days ago, I posted a comment that said get ready for some BIG NEWS and a LIFE UPDATE!...so here it is!....It's hard to believe that over a year ago, I was getting kicked off of American Idol but being catapulted into my career as an artist and songwriter. Since then we (meaning my hubby son and I) have been back and forth to Nashville, TN over 13 times! So we have finally decided to make the move!!!...As of June 1st we will be living in Nashville!...Crazy I know!...This is a bitter sweet move for us. Bitter because I am leaving home, but sweet because I am so excited about this new phase of life for my family, and for me as an artist....I have basically come to realize that things are happening there (Nashville) and I am missing out because I am not there all the time. So...Nashville here we come!...I will still be a part of the music at Freedom Fellowship in Va Beach, VA...the BEST CHURCH EVER!....you all have been overwhelmingly supportive of me and my career and at this point we will be traveling back to be a part on occasion for a while!...GREAT THINGS ARE AHEAD for Freedom!

Also, I have taken a gig with a "rock-symphony," produced by Windborne Music. They have been known for their HUGELY SUCCESSFUL shows such as the Music of Led Zeppelin, the Music of Queen, and their NEW SHOW which I will be singing on "THE MUSIC OF MICHAEL JACKSON!"!!!!!!! I AM SO EXCITED ABOUT THIS YOU GUYS!...we will be touring all over the country and into Canada, and performing with Major Symphonies! www.windbornemusic.com This is such an honor....not to mention I am such an MJ FAN and can't wait to be a part of this epic show!...In November and December the same production company will be putting on a brand new Christmas show featuring me as the LEAD!...I AM FREAKING OUT!...this is such an opportunity. Not to mention the opportunity to travel all over and meet so many of you that have been supporting me for so long!

In the mean time, I will still be writing and working on MY ALBUM!!!!...I feel like we have about 8 songs right now that are just AMAZING! And as I keep writing and working you will all here about to please keep in touch on Facebook, Twitter, and Myspace.......THANKS FOR ALL OF THE SUPPORT!.....VA BEACH....YOU ARE HOME...YOU WILL ALWAYS BE!.....I will definitely be back for a HUGE show on July 3rd down at the BEACH so I can't wait to see you all there!...LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH!!!!

Felicia

reflection.

So the last "yearish" for me has been amazing...I mean really when I look back on the moments that were, well...less than, I seem to have a hard time remembering the details. At the end of the day, the good days far out-way the bad. I have had opportunities to write with some amazing writers, be a part of making some amazing music, and make some "lifers." You know, those are the people that you know will be around forever with you. The ones that you will do life with, make lots of memories, and who knows maybe your kids will get married and/or be bff's for a really long time too!
When I think about the music, I think about the stories I've told, the lives that will be enriched because of the lyrics, and emotions that will be evoked because of the melodies. A year ago I made my first trip to Nashville, TN after a journey of about 9 months that came to an abrupt end on a stage in front of about 20 million people. (if you don't know what I'm talking about google me...lol) Since that day, I feel like the adventure has been so FULL! I think I am reflecting today because yesterday some good friends of mine wrote a song (Cary Barlowe and Shane Stevens) called "American Honey" that just went #1. So I have kinda been thinking wow.....they did it... so can I. So I am just really encouraged today and excited about the future...who knows what it will hold, but I am up for the ride. I keep reminding myself I am a wife, a mom, on a journey, and on my way to win a grammy.....but along that journey, I won't forget to stop take a look around, love life, make lots of memories with my boys (hubby and son) give lots of hugs and kisses tell people that I love them and while doing everything, not forgetting it is all for my creator.

Been awhile!- American IDOL post!

So I missed Aaron Kelly tonight, and for some reason my DVR decided to record NCIS Los Angeles which I never watch. Unfortunately, the word on the street was that it wasn't something to talk about, however Simon was a bit hard on him! So moving on to what I heard...Katie Stevens had her BEST performance so far! It was probably the best thing she could have done to keep herself out of the bottom. Andrew Garcia sang "Can't Buy Me Love," and put a little twist on the arrangement. He has some "mixed" reviews about his performance....mostly that it was good but kinda corny.....for me...I thought it was good but corny....I want to see him be an artist...he should have sang more of a ballad and let some emotion come out! So....Michael Lynch was not amazing, but he "did his thang" as Randy would say. He continues to be commanding on that stage, he is a real artist, knows who he is and consistently brings it! So I love Crystal Bowersox and after hearing all of the other contestants say amazing things about her I love her even more...MOMMASOX was in the house singing "Come Together." I loved it...and again I am calling top 2 possibly winner!!!!
Tim Urban sang "Send All my Lovin" and did an average job...it wasn't bad, and as Randy said "it was a good Tim performance." I think he should have been alive in the 60's and 70's he just fits in that era....I will agree with Kara when she said "Your best performances are with your guitar." OH CASEY JAMES!...the feeling really came out tonight! He sang "Jealous Guy," and really did an amazing job...do I really need to say anything else about this performance other than "IT WAS GREAT!" So Siobhan Magnus' performance, left me a little tired, and confused...it was a different side of her, but like Randy said "love the artistry in her." One of my favorite lines of the night was from Crystal Bowersox, when she said that Andrew and Lee were gonna get married and have little Danny Gokey babies...LOL! so about his performance...he sang "Hey Jude" and did a pretty good job minus the random bag-pipe player that "got separated from his parade." Honestly it was distracting but hilarious and got us all chatting about it! So my bottom 3 for tonight would have to be Aaron Kelly, Tim Urban, and either Katie Stevens or possibly Andrew Garcia?..let me know what you think and be sure to watch me on The Hampton Roads Show Wed. morning at 8am and watch online at www.fox43tv.com

Who will make it to the A.I. Tour?

Starting off the night tonight was Lee Dewyze who really performed better than any other week...overall, he wasn't as pitchy, but I completely agreed with Simon, out of all of the #1 hits on Billboard that is the one he picked!...should have picked a HUGE Rock hit, showing who he is as an artist, I just can't imagine him putting that song on his record! Next, Paige Miles proves that she should not be in the top 10...and Randy said it right "it was honestly terrible." It was really unfortunate, but I would have to agree worse performance of the season. Tim Urban took us way back with his performance of "Crazy Little Thing Called Love." The problem was it came across a little karaoke and "high school musical" like. Where are the CURRENT ARTISTS TONIGHT!!! Aaron Kelly was next up singing an Aerosmith Classic....but this is the thing...although he struggled with his vocals because he was under the weather, he has nothing to worry about because the 3 people before him were not as good as he was!...so we will see you on the tour Aaron! Saving the show, Crystal Bowersox sang "Bobby McGhee." It wasn't my favorite performance for her but it was GREAT!...and the best yet!...Again, I am feeling this may be the year for Crystal Bowersox to be the next AMERICAN IDOL! Of course I do think joining Crystal Bowersox in the TOP 3 will be MICHAEL LYNCH! He is THE BEST GUY in this competition!...I love that he is consistent every week and he absolutely rocked it tonight! Next up was Andrew Garcia singing "I heard it thru the grapevine." It was not a great song choice for him at all! It was so weird, I feel like tonight is #1 hits from the 50's. I am so shocked that the contestants this week aren't picking current #1 hits! Picking a more current #1 Katie Stevens, sang "Big girls don't cry." It was nice to see her take on a younger vibe and look, but it was SO PITCHY! and made me wish I had the footage from me singing the same song during Hollywood Week of Season 8. CASEY JAMES, CASEY JAMES, CASEY JAMES, CASEY JAMES, CASEY JAMES....can you hear me chanting his name! this was the perfect song choice for him tonight in my opinion, although the judges weren't....I do agree with Kara, when she said, "you are ready to make an album." LOVE HIM! Didi Benami was another FAVORITE of the night for me...unfortunately, the judges weren't agreeing, but just for the record, DIDI You did great! Closing the night Siobhan Magnus sang "Superstition." Honestly, it wasn't my favorite of all of her performances, and she better be careful not to get an Adam Lambert syndrome and think she can throw a Big Note in every song, and think she is going to get by with it. So, my pick to go home would be Paige Miles, however, be prepared for a shock!

TOP 12 PERFORM ON IDOL TONIGHT!

Well, they have made it to the big stage! Tonight the TOP 12 compete to see who is moving closer to the TOP 10 and will hit the road to entertain IDOL FANATICS all over the country! Kicking off the night, Michael Lynch, let us into his amazing story even more, which made me love him as a person even more! But then as he opened up those vocals, he continued to impress American as he turned a rolling stones song into an R&B hit! As Randy says "HE SLAYED IT." Up next is DiDi Benami! Singing a stones classic "Play with Fire" She started off fantastic!, but unfortunately had a little lyric mess up and struggled a bit after that, but I give her a 7 out of 10...it was a GREAT song choice for her! So making everyone fall even more in love with Casey James, his mom opened up tonight about his reaction to a vaccination as a child, and how they have been incredibly close ever since, but beyond the story, he really sang!...Compared to one of my favs Johnny Lang, I believe, that he could have a career as a bluesy rocker! Winning the fashion award for IDOL, Lacey Brown, not only brought a very cool look, but in my opinion, a very cool sound too! I thought Simon's constructive criticism was right on, she needs to just relax a little bit with her performance, let it be more natural and not so much like "acting." Singing "Give me shelter." Andrew Garcia was a little pitchy and the performance was a bit of a left turn from what he has done in the past. His place in this competition is weird...I am waiting for him to just settle in his place as an artist and be that consistently every week. Katie Stevens, sang "Wild Horses," and sang it pretty good!....Honestly, it was much better than her past performances, however it did start kinda pitchy! Oh Tim Urban, 10 kids!!!! WOW!...but how about the performance? Well, singing "Under My Thumb," he is continuing to prove all of us "IDOL BLOGGERS" wrong and actually doing a GREAT JOB!...I mean really the song choice wasn't my favorite, but he really sang it well. Unfortunately, he didn't get the best comments from the judges. Coming from a very "artsy" family, Siobhan really showed us what being an artist is! She looked absolutely beautiful and sang very cool!...Vocally, it wasn't her best, but performance wise...YES!!!! She is turning out to be one of my favorite girls! Not looking forward to the usual pitchy Lee Dewyze, his performance tonight wasn't as pitchy, but a little boring. Again, getting good comments about his voice (which I still don't understand). I haven't figured out why they keep making it sound like he has such an "amazing" voice. He hasn't had his "moment" for me yet. Paige Miles was up next and went a little "country," all of the sudden....she is definitely comfortable on the stage, but sounded pitchy, and honestly, forgettable. Aaron Kelly did a pretty good job tonight, better than he has done in the past few weeks, it was a little boring for me personally, but overall, he got great comments from all of the judges! Closing out the night, Crystal Bowersox was amazing as always...not the best performance to date, but overall amazing!...I WILL BUY HER RECORD!....I do agree with Ellen...."started to see a little bit of personality" and we want to see more!!! Who do you think is going home tomorrow?

MOST SHOCKING TOP 12 ELIMINATION EVER!

Tonights TOP 12 RESULTS started as a SUPER SHOCKER!....Didi Benami took the first place, which is great, but then out of nowhere, Paige Miles, who I thought would be going home tonight, takes the 2nd spot while Katelyn Epperly gets the boot!...WOW!...What next? Tatiana gets the WildCard spot and Felicia Barton goes home...oh wait...that was last year! HA! In all seriousness, the elimination continued when America was shocked by Lee Dewyze making top 12 over Toddirck Hall!....and my predictions for elimination night fail again!...UGH! The next elimination came between Andrew Garcia and Alex Lambert and the last spot for the Top 6 guys went to Andrew Garcia.....Fellow Tweeter @IDOL260 said it well "This is NOT how this episode was supposed to go! :( " At this point in the show we have all but one spot filled....Girls include: Didi Benami, Paige Miles, Lacey Brown, Crystal Bowersox and Siobhan Magnus. Boys include: Casey James, Lee Dewyze, Aaron Kelly, Michael Lynch, Tim Urban, and Andrew Garcia. To finish the night off and leave us with our FINAL addition to SEASON 9 TOP 12 Katie Stevens wins over Lilly Scott.....Needless to say I am in complete and utter shock this evening and considering hanging up my hat on IDOL SEASON 9! well....maybe not :)

It's BOY'S NIGHT!!!!

Is it me, or are they seriously rushing everything tonight just like last night....cramming it all into an hour! Howerver, I am glad it is down to 1 hour not 2 hours! Moving on to the show...Lee Dewyze started off the night singing one of my favorite songs "Fireflies." I honestly have not been much of a fan of Lee's and really am not sure why the judges keep giving him positive feedback every week....he continues to come across pitchy to me! One of my favorite boys, Alex Lambert, sang "Trouble" and the comments from the judges were all right on with my LIVE TWITTER COMMENTS....he is so good, but needs to relax and look more interested while he is singing. Kara said, " the only thing that is standing in the way of you winning is you." Tim Urban broke out the guitar tonight, and sang "Hallelujah," and in my humble opinion, is getting so much better!!!! I think this performance for him was his best to date! Andrew Garcia went back to his roots on idol and played his guitar minus the band and sang another girl song...I kinda liked it, but wish that the band would have come in half way thru the song! Casey James had a great song choice by Keith Urban...again...I heart Casey James. He continues to do a great job, but I can understand what Kara was saying when she said, "we are missing that spark." I am hoping he just connects more with us as the audience. 16 year old Aaron Kelly, did an O.K job, he has such a natural talent....I agreed 100% with Simon...it was a nice song and he did a good job, well...a kinda good job...might be going home this week. Toddrick Hall showed up, white teeth and all, singing the "HAPPY FEET" version of "Somebody to Love." He is a great singer, but I am still a fan of his version of "Since you've been gone." I think it saved him for this week! Michael Lynch closed the show singing "This Woman's Word" and WAS AMAZING!!!!! I am loving that he is sticking with the R&B thing. Simon even said that not only was it the best performance of the night, but best of all of the LIVE shows!!! So who is going home tomorrow night?...want my predictions?...ok I am guessing Aaron Kelly and I can only hope and cross my fingers that the other is Lee Dewyze...only because I don't know how he has made it this far with continued pitchiness!

American Idol GIRLS NIGHT!

Tonight you may have missed my live tweets at www.twitter.com/feliciabarton however, it was for a good reason...my little boy Malachi turned 3!!!! So unfortunately, Idol took a second place slot for me tonight....but don't worry I DVR'd it!!! So the night started with Katie Stevens singing a slightly "pitchy" version of Kelly Clarkson's "Breakaway." She has such a natural talent, but I agree that the song may have been too BIG for her. Next up to bat was Siobhan Magnus snging "House of the Rising Sun," she sang with such technical precision and I honestly really liked the song choice! Not to mention, she sang with such conviction...that is how you compete in a competition like American Idol...she is a thrill to watch every week. Continuing with Great song choices Lacy Brown sang Brandi Carlisle's "The Story." I totally agreed with Ellen when she said that it sounded like the song could have been written for her! So last week, I hung on every note that Katelyn Epperly sang, but this week I thought she picked the WRONG SONG! not to mention I don't think she should have stood up while playing, and the song just stayed in one place for me....agreed with Kara where it was almost like she didn't compete this week!...Sill a fan, want to hear her do "The Scientist" again!!! Didi Benami sang a Fleetwood Mac song, and SOUNDED AMAZING! She was totally connected the entire time...THIS WAS HER BEST ON THE SHOW SO FAR!!! This week her tears where happy tears! Paige Miles came to the stage singing "Smile" but unfortunately forgot to actually SMILE.....honestly this performance is what I have been seeing from the beginning and why I have thought she should have been gone week 1....she has done much better, but it was just an unfortunate night for her. Bringing the night back up, Crystal Bowersox sang "Give me one Reason" and made me believe once again that she can WIN THIS SHOW! Closing the show out tonight Lilly Scott sang "I fall to pieces" playing a mandolin, which is kinda cool, and I will say it again..."I will buy her record." So my favorite of the night is a Crytal Bowersox, however a close second for me was Didi Benami, Lacey Brown, and Siobhan Magnus....ok so l actually enjoyed more than one! Unfortunately, I think Katie Stevens and Paige Miles are up for elimination on Thursday.....for live commentary and to keep up to date on my journey please follow me at www.twitter.com/feliciabarton www.facebook.com/feliciabarton and myspace.com/feliciabarton

American IDOL RESULTS

Singing the Black Eyed Peas SMASH HIT "I got a feeling," the TOP 20 of Season 9 started off the show with a positive attitude at least hoping for the best for this week's elimination . The feeling must not have been too good for John Park, as he sang his farewell reprise of "Gravity" by John Mayer....on a side note...his goodbye performance was much better than Tues. night's performance....my humble piece of advice to any "current idol" contestants that for some reason may be reading this blog....SING LIKE IT'S YOUR LAST CHANCE TO SING EVERY TIME YOU GET ON THAT STAGE!....I mean it's almost as if they lose the nerves and actually relax and then, of course, do a much better job! The next contestant to leave us this week was....Jermaine Sellers, who was possibly given the boot because of his mouth....it's unfortunate, because he wasn't a terrible singer, but I think his attitude and mouth did turn off the viewers. Before the girls found out their fate on the Idol Stage, my fellow season 8 contestant and friend, DANNY GOKEY, sang his single, "My Best Days." He hits the road tomorrow with Sugarland....anybody going to hit the tour? The first girl to go is Michelle Delamore, who Kara told during the elimination, that she didn't do as great as they thought in the moment...I think they heard what we heard, when we were all shocked she got as great of comments as she did...she has such a nice natural talent and beauty, I am sure she will do GREAT things! The last girl to go was our cute little Haley Vaughn...I think she got priceless advice last night from Kara, when she said she needs to take a year and develop as an artist....and work on her gift...Keep smiling Haley!!!! We all really love that you are full of joy! Continue to follow me on twitter.com/feliciabarton facebook.com/feliciabarton and myspace.com/feliciabarton

AMERICAN IDOL LIVE!!!! TOP 10 GIRLS!!!!

Tonight on Idol we were all excited to see that Crystal Bowersox was feeling better and back on the stage, and SOUNDED GREAT! Next up was the "flower headband creator" Haley Vaughn who, in my opinion, sang VERY PITCHY!!! I was really hoping for more vocally, because she has an "it factor" as far as possibility to be a star...she is "likeable." Fellow Season 8 contestant, Lacey Brown, who was given the boot during Hollywood last year, is back this season and I am a FAN!...tonight she sang "Kiss Me," which was a GREAT song choice, but I do think she dealt with some nerves and will need to step up the performance side in order to make it thru the competition! 17-year old, Katie Stevens was up next singing my original audition song "Put Your Records on" which was pretty good....unfortunately for her she is a 17 year old that likes older music, but is being forced into a young pop box. LET HER BE WHO SHE WANTS TO BE AS AN ARTIST!!!! Trying to bring her "star-meter" up Didi sang "Lean on Me," but may have messed with the melody of a classic song too much! She sounded great, but overall was just an O.K. performance. Michelle Delamore took a risk singing "With Arms Wide Open" by Creed....did the risk pay off? we shall see! I agree with Randy when he said "it fell flat," however Kara and Simon kinda like it saying she got 80% of it right! So hmmm what do you think? Lilly Scott proved again that this is the "season for unique artists." I personally really loved it, so much in fact, that I am READY TO BUY HER RECORD!!! So I thought Crystal Bowersox was going to be my favorite of the night, but when Katelyn Epperly sang I seriously hung on every note! SHE WAS AMAZING! I honestly don't understand where the judges got off saying anything negative about her performance...for me it was pretty flawless! Next in the line up was Paige Miles, who sang Kelly Clarkson's "Walk Away." Why do I always find myself agreeing with Simon...I think her song was "forgettable" as well. She has a good voice, but will need to step it up to make thru this competition. Closing out the night was Siobhan Magnus, who is just as cute as can be, and had a technically GREAT performance last week. This week she again brought an interesting performance.....and agreeing with Simon, the first half was rough, but that last note was INCREDIBLE!
So who do you think is going home this week? All I know is that it won't be Katelyn Epperly or Crystal Bowersox!!!!

AMERICAN IDOL LIVE!!!! TOP 10 BOYS!!!!

So, this week on Idol we got a little reversed with the boys being on Tuesday and girls on Wednesday. They say it is because Crystal Bowersox is sick, which we do wish her the best, however I think it is because last week the girls bored us and then the show was saved by the guys night! HA! so regardless GOOD CALL!!! MICHAEL LYNCH!!!! brought the house down...he started off the show with a BAM!...I mean REALLY performed the song, even received a standing ovation from Randy, along with amazing comments from every other judge! Next up to bat with a better song choice, was John Park but there was something still missing, maybe it was John Mayer singing Gravity instead of him. UGH!...I was really hoping for more, kinda trying too hard?...what did you guys think? Honestly just a little confusing for me. Then in classic Casey James form, he wisk's every woman away into Casey land, by KILLING his guitar...he did seem a little uncomfortable singing, but I would just like for him to pull his hair back next week! and wisk me back to Casey land! On a side note, I really am enjoying Ellen's comments! WELCOME TO THE PANEL ELLEN! YES.....Alex Lambert...getting better and better every week....I really LOVE his voice, and love Simon's comment about getting a killer instinct and taking part in the competition...believing that he can WIN THIS! Toddrick Hall brought us back with some Tina Turner singing "What's Love got to do with it"....ending with some great falsetto, he was kinda pitchy throughout but honestly, I really like that he changes up arrangements, it makes me sit and go "what is gonna do with this song!" Maybe it is the musician in me that likes that kinda stuff, but the average listener wants things more simple? HMMM. Ok so right about now in the show I was interrupted by my husband shaving his beard which totally threw me off for a few minutes, but then Jermaine Sellers brought me back with his cool voice, however his personality is coming across a little "cocky," or maybe it was just doing too much like the judges said! With Andrew Garcia singing James Morrison he came across a little bored, but I am still a fan....but really needs to watch the pitchiness...yikes...not my favorite performance for him but shouldn't worry about leaving this week! WOW ME NEXT WEEK ANDREW!!!! Bringing more confidence? YES..Aaron Kelly sang "My Girl" this week, he consistently shows that he has a great natural talent, however I can't wait to hear him sing something more relevant and modern. Making up for last week's um....well not so good performance, Tim Urban really did a GREAT JOB! picking a GREAT song!....not to mention I think he is going to pick up the teeny bopper vote...unfortunately, the judges did not feel it so much except for Simon...which I agreed with! So...Lee Dewyze the "nice guy who made bad decisions," got the last spot of the night...I was hoping for a MUCH LESS PITCHY performance and I kinda got it? I mean he has a cool sound cool vibe, but at the end of the day he needs to vocally improve! FAV boy of the night....MICHAEL LYNCH...my prediction is that John Park is gonna be leaving us this week along with Tim Urban, Aaron Kelly....until next time please follow me on twitter at twitter.com/feliciabarton myspace.com/feliciabarton and facebook.com/feliciabarton

AMERICAN IDOL LIVE!!!! TOP 12 BOYS!!!!

Alright so I was kinda excited about the top 12 guys and then somewhere around 8:45 I was wishing I was doing live commentary for the FOX hit 24 and Jack Bauer was performing...and as Tyler Grady graced the stage and brought us back to the 70's my husband made the comment that this couldn't be the TOP 24 performers out of the 100,000 auditions!!! Finally Michael Lynch brought some energy to the stage with a cool sound. I love a good soulful singer that doesn't just do R&B, however I wasn't a fan of Simon's comments. Todrick Hall started the evening off with a HUGE risk redoing the Kelly Clarkson SMASH "Since you've been gone."
Followed by an average performance by Aaron Kelly singing Rascal Flats "Here Comes Goodbye"...he has a pretty good voice, but it kinda came across nervous....which I know first hand! Jermaine Sellers had to make up for his "throwing the band under the bus" moment in Hollywood, but at the end of the day I kinda think he came across a little cocky! Tim Urban sang "Apologize" and should have have stayed away from the whole head voice thing he has a current look, but was not the best song choice! I was definitely a fan of Joe Munoz....he showed amazing control for me he was top 4 of the night! One of the most confusing moments for me was listening to the comments from the judges regarding Lee Dewyze...he was SO PITCHY! and Simon loved him for some reason...his ears were not working!! Singing "God Bless the Child" John Park did an OK job...I hope it was good enough to keep him in the competition because I want to hear more!!!
Onto the new Lambert, Alex looked pretty bored thru the song, I think he has a cool sound but is an immature performer, so hopefully he will grow through the show!
Now I don't know where to start with Casey James....well let me just say this..my husband has a ponytail and plays guitar too, so I have an honest crush on this boy, but he looks like my hubby so it's OK! HAHA!...seriously though! LOVED HIM! FAV OF THE NIGHT!!! like Kara said, "EAR CANDY AND EYE CANDY." While on Idol, everyone always wonders who is gonna get the "pimp" spot as we call it the coveted last singer of the evening...which went to (drum roll) Andrew Garcia...well let's be honest we knew that was going to happen, and it is well deserved. Although he did not do as well as I had hoped, he held his own and we all know he is not going anywhere anytime soon!!! So Andrew Garcia if you are reading my blog...relax, enjoy every moment, and just re-do Paula Abdul songs all season long and make those judges happy! For LIVE commentary thru the show and to keep up to date on my journey please follow me on twtitter.com/feliciabarton facebook.com/feliciabarton and myspace.com/feliciabarton

AMERICAN IDOL LIVE!!!! GIRLS TOP 12

First of all, I cannot believe that this time last year I was in LA doing exactly what I am watching on TV tonight!...So besides taking in the talent and not so talented this evening, I also kinda took a walk down memory lane!....but enough about me and season 8 let's chat about the top 12 girls of season 9

The evening started with Paige Miles, which by the end of the night I had kinda forgotten about....I mean she wasn't terrible, but I think if asked Simon would retract his statement about her being the best female singer!
Then came Ashley Rodriguez singing Mariah Carey...and she was good, but got kinda pitchy when she pushed vocally. I only agreed with the judges a few times tonight, but when they said Janelle Wheeler sang the wrong song I agreed ....she should go with a "Bubbly" kinda song
So my fav of the night!!!!.....LILLY SCOTT!...interesting song choice cool sound, but the reason I love her so much is because she was SO ORIGINAL!!! I felt like she knows exactly who she is and went for that! Another killer voice of the night was Katelyn Epperly....she sounded great but I definitely agreed with the comments about her going back to the more "natural look." Haley Vaughn should be a Disney artist, you can't really fault her for being happy, but it was a little much....however, I would rather see the smile as to seeing a frown! I was really hoping Lacey Brown would have received better comments...I thought her song choice was great, and her performance got better as the song continued.....I am really hoping makes it through this week and gets another chance! Last year I sang "No One" by Alicia Keys and this year Michelle Delamor pulled out an Alicia Keys cut as well! she sang AMAZING...but I would like to see her try something a little less predictable! Our Season 7 Brook White look-a-like Didi Benami picked the perfect song unlike some of the other girls, but not to sure about the Joseph and the amazing technicolor dream coat sweater-vest....but hey...to each his own...Siobhan Magnus is definitely original...and her confidence was GREAT too...not to mention out of all of the girls she was technically AWESOME!!!! However, if we want to talk about authenticity Crystal Bowersox is the pick!...she, along with her guitar and harmonica, rocked the night with originality and authenticity. Ending the night with a Michael Buble smash, Katie Stevens sang amazing, but left us all wanting to see a more "young and hip" artist with her being only 17!...So my favs are Lilly Scott, and Katelyn Epperly followed by Michelle and Siobhan....I think the ones that may be packing their bags are Paige Miles, Haley Vaughn and Janelle Wheeler....we shall see!!!!! CAN'T wait for the boys tomorrow night!

Nashville Update

So I realized that I haven't posted in quite a few days!...UGGH!..so sorry!...so I have been a little busy! I am currently in my second home NASHVILLE BABY!....We love it here. I have written a couple of really GREAT songs and then Monday night myself, Brent Keith, Alex Wagner Trugman, Ann Marie Boskovich, and Ricky Braddy got together to do a concert called "Idols For Haiti" IT WAS AMAZING!...We had such a GREAT time, not mention just getting together after a long time was awesome! I will post some videos below of the concert! We streamed it live on USTREAM and had over 800 viewers! Well today I am off to write some more HITS! and then have some meetings tomorrow (actually ALL DAY TOMORROW!) then back to the beach on Friday! I will update everyone more after I get home!..In the mean time if you are interested in helping with Haiti Relief check out Bucketofhope.org to find out how you can provide 100 meals to a family in need!

Thanks
Felicia

Dallas Auditions!..WHOA!

WHOO HOO DALLAS! YA'LL!!! So I am a cowboys fan, and was kinda excited auditions where in Dallas, TX but....OMG!!!!...Really people...I want to hear some TALENT...ok don't get me wrong, the funny stuff is funny, the bad stuff is irritating, and the good stuff is well...just good...my favorite for the night was Dave Pittman....I mean honestly, his tone was spot on, so smooth, but one to many runs at the end of every phrase starts to be a little overwhelming, but a great story of overcoming! On a side note...I love Neil Patrick Harris...he is the only other person that could play Mr. Shoester (spelling?) on Glee!
Ok so if at first you don't succeed (Julie Kevilighan) don't try and try again, if you can't sing!...I love how Ryan says yes I remember you when you know he only remembers her from the 30 seconds before when the producers showed him her tape from season 1...oh gosh...I love reality TV..seriously...and by the way...Ryan is super nice....ok wait moving on to the silliness! Dexter Ward...I really don't even know what to say I mean...it was bad and the over confidence is really the only thing that got him air time. So what about the girls....Kimberly Carver, the "jazzy" girl, who brought on the Neil vs. Simon feud, was really good...I kinda agree with Simon that she may not be current, but what about the modern jazzy records out right now...I think she is pretty good, but kinda understand what Simon was saying.
It looked like quite a few girls made it thru including Dawntoya Thomason, Stephanie Daulong, and Meagan Wright who had her kid brother with her! I thought that Meagan came across a little nervous but you are sitting in front of Simon and a Jonas!...she has some potential though...want to hear more!
We didn't get to see too much of my boy MICHAEL CASTRO whom I love, however we did get to see quite a bit of Lloyd "sexy" Thomas...love the family men in this season...his little girls are cute and he can SANG he just needs to open his eyes and relax a bit...good luck Lloyd!
OK WOW...really to what level have we stooped when we have "BARNEY GONE WILD" on American Idol...WTH!....I guess people will do what they feel is necessary but at what expense...Erica Rhodes, our resident "Barney Dominatrix" was a little creepy honestly...I mean she could sing good, but will we remember her for that? No.and her mom was more excited than she was! Kinda funny!
Todrick Hall..LOVE LOVE LOVE....loved his song, that is the way to stick out!...and his voice was GREAT!...hope to hear more of him!
The night ended with the good and the not so good....Vanessa Johnston left nightmares for Simon, .but the laughing at the end proved that she knows she is bad...I am sure she had fun! Then finally we have Chrisitan Spear a cancer survivor....she is a super cute girl, wasn't that blown away by her voice though, but she is 16 and can still get better!!...we shall see!

OK Denver better be good next week!!!!....I honestly can't wait to get onto Hollywood and onto the LIVE SHOW!...bring on the TALENT!

AI Auditions LA!!!!

So I haven't seen LA, since I was booted from the show, the second time....I can't wait to get back, but what an interesting city....I mean really, what other city could bring such a, how do I say this, extremely diverse group of people. Self proclaimed "big geek" Neil Goldstein started the night off with an amazing vibrato infused Meatloaf song, accompanied by hope for an album entitled "HOPE" (original) and then quotes "there is no reality but what we make for ourselves," as the security comes out of the woodwork!. WOW...what a start...but then I think all of the aspiring actors came out for their 30 seconds of fame Jim Ranger, Jayson Wilson, Jesse Chang, and Marin Perez....bad singing....BAD acting!....but I am sure we will see them on some random episode of LAW and Order!. BAHAHA!

Finally were blessed to hear the vocals of a worship pastor who could actually pull it off!...Kinda funny that they made a big deal about him being a worship leader when there were SOOO Many of us on Season 8...Avril Levign started to get annoying with him implying that he wouldn't leave the worship leading gig to travel the world and be the next American Idol!...hello...Kris Allen, Felicia Barton (wait that's me), Danny Gokey....anyways....he did an original and rocked it!!!!

On a side note....Damien Lefavor...if you have been trying to hit a note for years and still can't sing it...then don't!...maybe you should just stick to the martial arts..but then again..well, I will let a professional martial artist give you comments in that area!

Then we had our resident "Rocker mom" now don't get me wrong...I am all about the mommas trying to make it! I mean hey let's give it up for the mom's in season 8 me, lil, megan joy, and Alexis grace.....Mary Powers, mommy of a Simon adoring 8 year old was pretty cool with a nice raspy sound, but I just hope she found a little more originality for Hollywood week...I agreed with Simon that she was a tad cliche'.

If you decide to audition for Idol in future...DO NOT BE A NAME DROPPER!..and DO NOT TRY TO BE ADAM LAMBERT....you see Adam is a one and only...pretty original, and now AJ Mendoza you will be forever compared if you try (but do not succeed) to sing like him.
The auditioners continued to fall with Austin Fullmer wearing a "Where's Waldo" pleather shirt and doing some sort of leg clapping but with hopes from his friend at the end "don't be surprised if Katy calls you later" Poor deceived people!

Ok so my favorite of the night and probably favorite of the season honestly....Andrew Garcia!!!!!!!!! can I just talk about how genuine he came across...AMAZING STORY!..AMAZING VOICE!...kinda in a weird way reminds me of Israel Houghton (christian singer) and Danny Gokey (I know you know who he is HA!) anyways we will be talking about him a lot this season..if not well then I need to have a conversation with these producers...oh wait I was given the boot too...that conversation didn't work...haha....Glad he is getting a chance though...really like him!

And of course fav girl of the night Tasha Lynton!!!!!...love her too!...again with the complete genuineness!..cool voice...good song choice and evidently is a friend of @sharonwilbur
Chris Golightly was good, a little over dramatic with his movements, but at the end of the day had a good natural talent...but our night would not have been complete without the scary magic believing overly sexual Jason Green...PS...have I mentioned how much I love the security!!!! Big Guy Aaron is AWESOME!

So my recap....Katy Perry should have done both days, Avril didn't have much good to say, and I have to get up 4 am to sing on WTKR channel 3 so I NEED TO GO TO BED!!!! please follow me tomorrow night! www.twitter.com/feliciabarton www.facebook.com/feliciabarton www.followingfelicia.blogspot.com and my idol blogs on www.ainow.org

SEE YA!

American Idol Ep. 3 Chicago...could have done without.

Shoulda' skipped chicago!....as they chanted "Yes We Can" at the end of the show, all I was thinking was "No You Didn't"
as my fellow tweeting commentator @thepopmatrix so eloquently stated at the end of the evening "a couple standouts, but for the most part 2nites AI was...YAWN!!! The Windy City kinda BLEW!!! :)"
Kately Epperly started the evening with some poof in her hair (cool look) a story of a broken home (making producers very happy, but unfortunate) but a cool voice (not necessary for AI HA!) She really was pretty good though!.....The evening continued with my vote for the next Glee cast member...but wait she can't sing.....but the "musical boobs" of our dear Amy Lane were, well....Boobalicious!..ha...maybe she can take up boob boxing like Kara said?!
I think my favorite voice of the evening came from Charity Vance (cool name)....I totally agreed with Simon when he said your voice would sound great recorded!...and she is only 16...she will make a cool record one day!..mark my words people!..I will buy it!
And of course the montage of acordian lady, tight shorts boy, the bride, bloody eyes man, Carlton wannabee, and the random high pitch singer, to name a few, only really wet my appetite, since I was hoping they would top Pant on the Ground!
For the third season in a row, my former roomy!, Angela Martin made it thru to Hollywood with a killer story, that unfortunately just grows every year...the girl deserves a break, I would love to see her make it through Hollywood!
I don't know about you, but as a mom, I promise to never lie to my child if he decides to go audition for something that he is NOT good at....I mean really....I think I need to start a mom group....M.T.L.T.T.K.A B.V.T. Mom's that lie to their kids about being vocally talented! There are plenty of you A.I mommas that need to join!!!
The few "not-so-funny" moments, continued with Curly Newbern who according to Simon thinks animals may show up at his door when he sings at his house and Alannah Halbert, who could be in a duet of hight pitch singing, but that sweet girl...I mean, if you can't sing the note the judges are asking you to sing, that is a really big clue you shouldn't be singing. Brian Krause was just kinda creepy, Harold Davis, just wanted to eat steak and cry fake tears!.....FINALLY, here he comes to save the show!!! John Park, redeems my evening by actually singing and with his great look (Shania? awkward..but I love her!). I mean she really said he had a beautiful bottom end, which singers understand, but continued to talk about his nice lips and head and well...poor thing she must of been a little nervous or something. Paige Dechausse was actually pretty good, but I completely agreed with the judges when they said she seemed nervous and would do better, I hope they show her in Hollywood, because I bet she will be pretty good...I guess we will see! The night ended with the "hurry up and show a few more people that made it thru in 20 seconds!" montage of Justin Ray, Keith Semple (who I kinda liked) and Marcus Jones....ok so tomorrow better be GREAT! not to mention I'm flying to Austin and will be watching with fellow season 8 contestant KENDALL BEARD!!!! her and I became good friends last season on the show and I cannot wait to see her!!!! Till tomorrow night at 8pm eastern time, and with hopes of a more thrilling Idol Audition evening...I bid you farewell!

Please follow me at www.twitter.com/feliciabarton www.facebook.com/feliciabarton www.myspace.com/feliciabarton and www.followingfelicia.blogspot.com

what to do about death

So on New Year's Eve an old friend of mine who had some drug issues partied a little too hard and went into cardiac arrest, after an emotional ride of almost 2 weeks, for her family, thinking she would make it then knowing she wouldn't....she passed. What do you do when someone that is your age, has a kid the same age as yours, went to the same schools as you, performed in the same musicals as you, competed in the same pageants as you, goes away, leaving only a memory and a beautiful 3 year old little girl, that looks just like her and that she LOVED and cared for dearly! Well, after the anger subsides, and the God questions arise...you ask yourself what could I have done. So my point to this blog is this....today is her funeral, I have been given the honor of singing, but more than that I feel like I need to do something in her honor...something to help make a difference so that this little angel of hers knows that her mommies journey saved the lives of many others, I think this is a part of my grieving...what can I do....so here it is..if you or someone you know is dealing with real addictions then GET HELP!...In the last year of my life, I have seen drugs mess with one to many families, and the death of my friend was the straw that broke the camels back, for me. Last summer a good friend of mine relapsed and ended up sweating it out on my couch only to disappear for another month and then when she was ready she came back and has now been clean for quite some time, a family member of mine decided he wanted to try it out and experimented with way too much and ended up stinky and homeless, then finally after a few butt kickings I am hoping (you know who you are) he will get his life back on track....ya know at the bottom of it I think those of you that get stuck in these positions feel like you are stuck in life, like you got a crappy hand dealt to you and so now you are covering it up with the one thing that makes you forget about it for a moment....the thing is...you can get help, you can be successful, and you can stop being selfish and remember that with humility you can realize that there is a better life, YOU CAN BE AND DO WHATEVER IT IS THAT YOU WANT TO DO....you may think that sounds cheesy, but you obviously forgot that anything is possible for you....it may be a rough road to recovery, but once you are there....IT IS SO MUCH BETTER!...I have never done drugs, but I have seen it hurt one to many people...If this is you please tell someone that you need help...go to a local church, hospital, neighbor, family member, or even just comment on this post and I will get information to you about how you can find Freedom!!!....thanks for listening.

American Idol Ep. 2 ATLANTA AUDITIONS....good times.

ALTANTA AUDITIONS!!!...A.T.L where ya at!!!...so last night, Boston, wasn’t exactly the most “exciting evening of entertainment,” but tonight changed my life BAHAHAHAHA!!!....no seriously, the craziness continued with Diwone Robinson and his original song “Lady we’re not together anymore.” Note to all aspiring songwriters....never title a song this, if a song comes out sounding like this, then maybe singing it on national television isn’t the best idea ever....in fact for all of you gearing up to audition for season 10...just don’t do an original...not the best idea. On a side note..I miss Paula, but the drama and silly comments have continued thanks to the the little elves...and Mary J did a great job...I loved her facial expressions the crying laughter and the honesty. Keia, the former Miss America contestant that won “Miss Congealiality” in Mary J’s words has a good voice, but needs a little more control...her “runs” where full of nerves. A few other “Hollywood ticket winners” were Miriam Lemnouni who had a cool raspy sound, Noel Reese, Tisha Holland, who I personally thought was better then Keia, and Jermaine Sellers. Can we just stop for a second and talk about that rendition of “What if God was one of us”...reminded me of “Hey There Delilah” last year by Jamar Rogers and Ju’Not...different, but he has a GREAT VOICE with KILLER runs...so much control!
Ok, so we all know that these early auditions are mostly for entertainment, so let’s get back to the interesting auditions we will remember for the rest of the night, ha, but forget tomorrow....Cristina (I don’t know your last name) sang “ Love is a Battlefield”...she was the TV host and producer of an Atlanta show...hmmm...she kinda seemed like she was a TV host for a Disney or nick show...way to peppy...but loved that she said “I am going to do me, and this is me”......so do you girl...just unfortunately not going to work out for Idol.
Then there was the tear jerker of the evening with Vanessa Wolfe...I have no idea what she sang, but country was her thing...but beyond the sound, I loved her for her...that heart spilled out and I love when a “girl next door,” kinda girl gets a chance....wait kinda like me!...hehe anybody wanna go bridge jumping!!! Kudos to the producers for the “Cheap Dramatization” during Jason Hamilton’s audition...LOL....he is the cat with 9 lives, but didn’t get the Simon quote of the night “you sound like a Cat Barking” like poor Lathan Davenport did! Holly Harden.....lesson on things not to say when in front of 30 million viewers....you can strum my guitar or tune my guitar, while wearing a guitar costume!
Favorite girl of the night (singing that is) was Mallorie Haley. She sang “A piece of my heart”...LOVE HER...best country singer of the night! And to cap off the night with a few moments to remember....sour peaches are the worst...Skii bo ski should not have made it to Hollywood....so enjoy your free trip!....don’t go in to an audition with your BFF....(crossing fingers) hope your friendship makes it thru this!....Do Not reject the criticism of the judges it makes you look foolish, but for our sake, go right ahead, it is good entertainment!
Now in closing my 2 favorite men of the evening...Brian Walker the police officer...shocking voice...so controlled...he will make it to the top 24 or 36 or 489 whatever they decide to do...and I will never forget General Larry Platt and his song, that he should have copyrighted before singing on nat’l television...it was obviously my son Malachi’s favorite audition of the night and the one he immediately began singing!!! Click here for proof http://bbltwt.com/smp43 Thanks again for following me tonight and be sure to keep in touch at www.twitter.com/feliciabarton www.facebook.com/feliciabarton and on my NEW BLOG followingfelicia.blogspot.com

Felicia Barton

America Idol Ep. 1 Boston Auditions! WHOA!

Can you believe Season 9 just started...it feels like it was only a few months ago, when I was having Idol viewing parties at my house, getting ready to get the news that I was back on the show ...and in the TOP 36 of season 8...Watching tonight’s show is kinda weird and nostalgic all at the same time...I mean, the lines, the waiting, the nerves. What we saw tonight, I know all to well! So, enough about me and season 8 let's talk about the craziness that we just experienced!!!!
So....here are my highlights the good the bad and the absolutely crazy from the Boston auditions!!!
First of all, can we just talk about the opening "Pocket Full of Sunshine" it was crazy, scary, exciting not very sunshiney...well maybe?...moving on to the absolutely amazing side of things...Jess Wolfe's version of Ding Dong the Witch is dead was AMAZING...favorite girl of the night honestly!....that audition was original and I loved her voice. I love how the producers always put together random montages of crying people, terrible singers, and missing lyrics....the crying is so unfortunate...I mean I remember seeing poor little young girls and boys think they are the stuff, followed by a rude awakening that they can't sing worth pooo.....THIS IS A PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: WARNING TO ALL PARENTS...DO NOT LEAD YOUR CHILDREN TO BELIEVE THEY ARE GREAT SINGERS WHEN THEY ARE NOT...this will only lead to a false sense of talent (anime girl) thus causing you years of insecurity and heartache.
Amadeo the Italian guy needs to send me an invite to dinner because that food looked amazing!...ok on to the singing...it was ok...not the best ever, but it will be interesting to hear him try a ballad since he just pushed out so much sound! Luke Shaffer...super cute and current, Benjamin Bright ....gonna have the girls swooning!
Andrew Fenlon needs a blog all to himself because WHOA!!...the arrogance was a hilarious turn off and Kara's responses were a little personal but funny---"I am now angry with you who I don't like." But can he sing?...we couldn't tell because the size of your head clouded the sound!...lesson learned....pride comes before the fall!
Tyler's let's get it on...loved it....I hope he really pulls his look together because he could be fun for TV, and actually had a good voice! My favorite Simon quote of the evening was "absolute unequivocal no" I need to say that more often....I am learning to be more direct! So I totally agreed with Simon regarding the "kinda-country guy"...Joshua Blaylock he did sound a little on the "14 side" and needs more confidence...so let's get back to the craziness...the kid that sang "All By Myself" I don't think I need say more that was just silliness...I could not understand a word he said! I knew I recognized Justin Williams from last year, he was in Hollywood with myself and the other season 8ers he has a GREAT story and a GREAT voice...for a split second I questioned why he didn't make it thru further in season 8 and then I quickly remembered that I was watching American Idol! HA!...how could I forget! He was however, my favorite guy of the evening! and maybe even my favorite overall for Boston! The evening capped off pretty good with a nice version of "Blue Skies" by Leah, it was good, but I would have rather ended the evening with Norberto Guerrero the "Halloween Michael Jackson costume gone bad" his hair will forever remain engrained in my memory!...Thanks to everyone who followed me on Twitter, FB and www.followingfelicia.blogspot.com See ya tomorrow night!

Felicia Barton

HEY!...so I have had internet Hell at my house for the last few days and within 15 min. I just learned how to unplug and plug some sort of router thingy behind my tv and I AM ALIVE!!!!! SO, please tell everyone that this is a HUGE WEEK for Following Felicia....there will be immediate blog posts about Idol, beginning tonight, also follow me on Twitter for live tweets throughout the show!...see ya there!

Everyone needs a Wii

So, in my opinion.....everyone needs a wii....instead of family counseling...just play sword play on "sports resort"......instead of the gym...you have wii fit....during the winter Tiger Woods Golf gives the golf guru an outlet for his obsession, and Pixar Cars teaches a 2 year old to drive early!...I mean really...could we ask for much more in a little white box....best Christmas gift of 2009!

The People's Choice Awards...

so I was shockingly surprised that there was no "Drama" at the awards show last night...hehe..you really never know what you are going to get when you watch an awards show these days!...Here are a few of my shocking moments....1. Carrie Underwood beating Taylor Swift....this was a pleasantly surprised moment for me...Taylor's fans usually win awards like this for her, so it was nice to see another country artist win out!...2. when Mariah Carey said "God Bless You" my little boy Malachi turned around and said to me "Mommy, she said God Bless You like Michael Jackson" HA!...House is just one of those shows that I absolutely LOVE!...Hugh Laurie is so flipping hilarious and his acceptance speech proved it....ok, well now I just heard George Lopez and I could have done without his little talk...but whatever!....his Speed 2 comment was funny!....on a side note...Sandra Bullock is my FAV actress.....Nicole Scherzinger sounded unfortunately pitchy...it wasn't her best...and then of course my cable stopped recording with 25 min left...so somebody fill me in as to what happened during the last part of the show!

Here is my recap...I need a FLIP CAM!!!!!

THE BIGGEST LOSER! ep. 1

OK....so for the first time ever I didn't eat ice cream during last nights episode!!...instead I chose almonds...kinda funny, but I did while I watched my husband down a bowl of ice cream covered in magic shell and cherries(my fav)....anyways on to the show!....Like every season I cannot watch the show without the occasional drip from the eyeball!...I mean really people are changing their lives...however, after being on reality TV, I know there are so many created moments...I kinda wish I could turn that off sometimes and just enjoy it....I am waiting for a crazy Tracy like last season...I mean we need a little bit of drama in out TV lives!...Anybody have a pick for the top yet?...I am personally lovin the Italian!

What this is all about!

Hey everybody...so here is my new blog!...I am really excited about sharing my journey with you all.....If you are new to Following Felicia, let me tell you a little bit about myself....I was a part of the top 36 of Season 8 on American Idol...it was a dream to be on the show...it became reality, and my continued obsession of reality tv is not over!...hehe...I'm really exctied to post on all things reality....not just my life, American Idol, and few other fun things, but I really love watching reality TV like so many of you....so I figured I would start this blog to share my opinions hear your opinions and see what happens!....Please tell everyone you know to come and subscribe to my new blog I am SOOOO excited about this!...PS...I like to say that I am a mom, chasing a dream, hoping to win a grammy one day!...Anybody want to come along for the ride?