Idol Edge: How the Contestants Pick a Song
By: Brad Reed
Updated: April 26, 2012
They make it look all too easy, but the staff and crew of "American Idol" have to go over every detail of the complex set, and make sure the contestants are ready when they take the stage.
According to Idol music director Michael Orland, the contestants pick their songs for the following week on Thursday, before the elimination show. Then on Friday they have their first meeting with mentor Jimmy Iovine.
"...Depending on how much help they need is how much they get when they go into Jimmy Iovine and the mentor," says Orland.
Picking the right song is critical to the contestants -- especially in this part of the competition. And the contestants know even one mistake could be costly.
"There's a lot you have to put into a song," explains Jessica Sanchez. "You can't just let it be boring and not feel it."
Click on the video to see more from the contestants, and hear why booted contestant Colton Dixon may turn to Christian music moving forward.
According to Idol music director Michael Orland, the contestants pick their songs for the following week on Thursday, before the elimination show. Then on Friday they have their first meeting with mentor Jimmy Iovine.
"...Depending on how much help they need is how much they get when they go into Jimmy Iovine and the mentor," says Orland.
Picking the right song is critical to the contestants -- especially in this part of the competition. And the contestants know even one mistake could be costly.
"There's a lot you have to put into a song," explains Jessica Sanchez. "You can't just let it be boring and not feel it."
Click on the video to see more from the contestants, and hear why booted contestant Colton Dixon may turn to Christian music moving forward.
