In contrast, after wondering in the initial stages of the competition about how the oldest (29) competitor, Michael Johns, would react to competing with a 17-year old (on Johns’ Wikipedia page, it’s documented that he has been struggling for years to work as a musician), I was amazed at his generosity in interviews about David after what must have been for Michael a heartbreakingly early exit from the competition.

For example, in a Fox 13 (Utah) interview after David’s three performances on 5/20, when asked to comment about David, Michael Johns replied, “Are you kidding? Seventeen years, doing what he just did? I don’t care if you’re 50 years old… what a talent that kid is, isn’t he? Be very proud, Utah.”

The admiration which seemed to show in Michael Johns’ voice and on his face when he answered that question made me happy that he’ll be on tour with David… a far more generous mentor (I believe) than David Cook.

He has shone on every talk show this week. His performance of “Angels” on Juliet and Mike was stunning! (not as moving as the hospital performance for obvious reasons but every bit as beautiful) All the hosts are clearly affected by David, and it looks likes he’s having a great time. If this was an ordinary performer, you’d think that some of that annoying celebrity, self-absorption might have crept in. But no, it’s only given David the confidence to relax and enjoy the experience.

This week has given us ODD’s a false sense of continuance. It’s actually been more enjoyable than during the AI show as we’ve gotten to know David on a deeper level. The fun factor has gone way up while all the tension of the competition has gone away. (Although bigsky’s announcement that David’s itunes are MIA, is disturbing. It raises the spectre of continued AI/19 meddling) But it’s like we’re having a field day: we’re getting this constant flow of David’s shining personality emanating out to the world while enjoying a load of new performances aaand still getting to to review all the AI material. (while the clock was telling me to go to bed last night I was reviewing every performance to date. ODD wins I guess)

Unless something unexpected is on the horizon that keeps David in the limelight, I fear we’re headed for a big crash next week. We’re all in for a bad case of the DDT’s.

PS Saw Michael Johns and Carly Smithson do U2’s “One” live in New York. Awesome performance! They played it Bono/Mary J Blige style – beautiful!

DC is often asked (why bother?) what type of album he’ll release and we always get a non surprising “Rock” response. Pose the question to DJ and check out the answer.

In his song selections we knew his influences were vast and broad, “You’re the Voice” , “When You Believe”, Eva Cassidy. It’s a testament to his character and artistry that he was still able to excel in the AI arena with all the restrictions regarding clearance and arrangements. How frustrating it must have been for him to be continually type cast as a “ballad” singer. I hope he gets the freedom to make the album he desires. That’s my wish for him.

Cook, too, in an interview this week, discussed his song clearances and how, for the most part, everything he asked for was cleared--so it doesn’t appear to be against AI rules to discuss song clearances.

David’s appearance today on the Mike and Juliet show was so heart warming. I especially loved Juliet’s interactions with him. She embraced his age and encouraged him to feel good about acting 17. The adult ladies (notice not tweens nor grandmas) in the audience were dizzy, screaming fangirls and cried during his performance of “Angels.”

OK, so now I will support Juliet throughout her career--she hugged David at the end of his performance and told him he was number one with her--oh my gosh!

I actually David explained that matter in the least threatening manner possible. And most importantly, he doesn’t seem bitter about it. So dont worry