American Idol: Season 10, Episode 28 :: Top 7

Apr 20, 2011

American Idol is getting down to the wire. Season 10’s Top 7 sang songs from the 21st century. Episode 28 aired on April 20, 2011.

American Idol: Season 10, Episode 28 :: Top 7

Courtesy of CTV

Country heartthrob Scotty McCreery took the dreaded first slot (the first person to perform always seems to land in the bottom three). He sang Swinging by Leann Rimes. While the judges said his performance was good, it felt too safe. He had so much material to choose from, and this didn’t push the envelope.

Next, James Durbin sang Uprising by Muse with so much passion and theatricality that the judges predicted his performance would be the best of the night. Using one of his weird and wonderful phrases, Steven said “you’re going in a T-Rex direction.”

Haley Reinhart sang the popular, award-winning song, Rolling in the Deep by Adele. The song choice seemed perfect for her, but the performance didn’t turn out as well as it could have. However, the judges liked it, despite a few sharp moments.

American Idol Season 10 :: Haley Reinhart Singing Rolling In The Deep by Adele

Jacob Lusk sang Dance With My Father by Luther Vandross. The song was dear to his heart because he lost his father at a young age. From home, the song sounded tender, emotional and beautifully sung. The judges, however, weren’t as thrilled. They said vocally it was only “good.” They expect him to add his high and low runs to every song. But this song really didn’t need it.

Casey Abrams surprised the judges with his ability to turn a pop song into a rock song. He sang Harder to Breathe by Maroon 5. According to Steven, he brought his Casey “isms” to the song. Randy said he loves how he always surprises the audience. Like this song, which he ended by kissing J-Lo on the cheek.

Stefano Langone revealed his ladies man side when he sang Closer by Neo. While he came across (to me at least) as unattractively cocky, his swag made J-Lo swoon. Steven loved his dancing, and Randy liked how he smoothed out his performance compared to previous weeks.

Lauren Alaina closed the show with Born to Fly by Sara Evans. J-Lo said she has a special voice with so much character, and she encouraged her to try to sing the big notes...the notes that she’s holding back.