Sezairi Sezali's Idol Journey - The Performances

Airi's Idol Journey ....

Yesterday morning I posted Sylvia's performance journey on Idol, today its Airi's turn. Like the post I did on Sylvia, I started compiling these vids about a week ago.

In the vids below, bordered in Airi's fan-support colour GREEN, you'll see Airi's transformation from musician geek to what Florence calls the 'cool cat', from auditions to the Piano Show, to the last Spectacular just 2 weeks ago.

Watch his journey, its starts with his very first audition in June, earlier this year...

Airi's original audition

Piano Show #2

'Sunday Morning' by Maroon 5

Judges' comments :

Dick felt his performance was a great start to the evening. Ken added that he makes for a very convincing backup singer, and that he is lacking in a strong presentation of himself to the viewers.

summerr says :

Taufik inspired him and he wanted to inspire others. I'd say you're there already sweets. I still get chills whenever you pick up the guitar and play this. Its a great song and I think Airi did it well.

Spec 1 : Chart Toppers

'You Give Me Something' by James Morrison

Judges' comments :

Dick – I like listening to your voice, its calming. However your performance needs to be more exciting.

Flo – I absolutely disagree with Dick. You were the cool cat tonight, there was nothing I did not like about the song.

Ken – There is no difference if you are in the contest or not.

summerr says :

I have to agree with Dick, I love the sound of Airi's voice, it is calming. And with this performance came the birth of Airi's 'cool cat' nick.

Spec 2 : The Year I Was Born

'Faith' by George Michael

Judges' comments :

Dick – Your singing was really good.

Flo – You were comedic cool tonight. I did not know whether to laugh or enjoy the performance. Seems like you were trying too hard.

Ken – You need to have a bigger ego. You need to start listening to songs that make you shine. You have a decent voice, and your tone is one of my favorites.

summerr says :

Well said, you have to have faith in yourself before others can have faith in you. I totally enjoyed this performance, from the interesting 'moves' to his pitch perfect singing for this song. I really liked this!

Spec 3 : An Asian Feast

'Jeritan Batinku' by P. Ramlee

Judges' comments :

Dick – I like that performance, you sounded very elegant and jazzy.

Flo – You added so much emotion to that song. (Can't believe Flo called him Sezali LOL!)

Ken – Thats your best performance. Good vocals, but you need to concentrate on correcting your flaws to realize your potential. There's nothing wrong with your singing, it is good, you just have to believe in yourself, I think thats lacking.

summerr says :

O.M.G. is the first thing I have to say. I'd totally forgotten how amazing this performance was. This song is so tough to sing and only the biggest stars in Malay music have attempted. Imo, Airi did P. Ramlee proud. Two solid performances in a row. Agree with Ken, that WAS his best performance up to this point.

Spec 4 : A Tribute To Michael Jackson

'Thriller' by Michael Jackson

Judges' comments :

Dick – You sounded quite cool but I felt you were trying too hard. Very pitchy in the high notes.

Flo – There is a cool quiet comfortable quality about you.

Ken – You have the most original style tonight. You are likeable, it was nicely done.

summerr says :

I don't know why some people even complained about this one, I totally enjoyed. It was fun to experience Thriller in a different arrangement. I thought Airi hit a new cool quotient with this one. Plus he was in his element with that guitar :)

Spec 5 : For Someone Special

'Ordinary People' by John Legend

Judges' comments :

Dick – You sounded great, great song!

Flo – That performance was cool sophistication.

Ken – You are the closest to being original. The image you creating for yourself is a bit dull.

summerr says :

I liked the way Airi sang this, it was so effortless. It was so cool and confident. He sounded great!

Spec 6 : Mambo Mania

'Play That Funky Music' by Wild Cherry

Judges' comments :

Dick – It was a very confusing performance.

Flo – You were a cool cat but tonight you became a wild cat. I miss the sincerity in your performance.

Ken – Tonight you were trying very hard.

summerr says :

Again, I enjoyed this performance. Vocally I thought Airi was spot on. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing him go 'wild' and rocking out the stage. Like Gurms' said he 'rocked the house down'.

Spec 7 : My Folks Love This

'Georgia On My Mind' by Ray Charles

Judges' comments :

Dick – If Sylvia has the soul, you have the groove. You’re the musician of the group. Promise me to pursue music in your life.

Flo –Woohoo! The cool cat is back!

Ken – Do not fall into the self indulgent route.

summerr says :

Airi's Dad totally steals the limelight before and after the song when he proclaims his feelings for Airi, so sweet :) Ok, back to Airi's performance - spot on again! I totally enjoyed his groove.

Spec 8 : Killing Me Softly (song chosen by Faizal Isa)

'What Goes Around Comes Around' by Justin Timberlake

Judges' comments :

Dick – I wish you would be one person who did something interesting. Hope to see something more from you.

Flo – That song needed an edgy oomph which was missing in your performance.

Ken – Your biggest problem is you can’t bring in the emotions. You need to make your vocals more natural.

summerr says :

In his VT Airi says he couldn't 'wait for it to be down to 2' - well look where he is right now! I thought this was a great song choice for Airi plus he was back with his guitar, something I think everyone loves about Airi - him playing his guitar and being awesome.

Spec 9 : You Asked For It (song chosen by a fan)

'Virtual Insanity' by Jamiroquai

Judges' comments :

Dick – This is exactly the kind of performance I want to see tonight. Finally someone gets it right! You upped everything!

Flo – You look and sound unique. Crazy, sexy and cool! Everything came together.

Ken – How you sound should be how you look. You can easily be in the Top 3 provided you stop looking like a singing barber.

summerr says :

For many, including myself, this would be Airi's breakthrough performance! It never fails to my head bobbing and shoulders twitching, not to mention...a big smile :) love this Airi, and it proves that he doesn't need the guitar to shine!

Spec 10 : Song For A Cause (In Commemoration of World AIDS Day)

'Where Is The Love' by Black Eyed Peas

Judges' comments :

Dick – You’re able to make the song into your own style. Tonight it’s all coming together for you.

Flo – Risky choice and a busy song. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for you.

Ken – Very disappointing performance, too bland.

summerr says :

I was pleasantly surprised when he sang this cos I hadn't had a preview of it before the show itself and I had wondered how he was gonna tackle what is essentially a group song with just ONE voice - he did it, and he did it beautifully. He managed to make this group song a solo that worked and OWNED IT! There's a lot of lyric here and his diction never faultered.

Spec 10 : Song For A Cause (In Commemoration of World AIDS Day)

'You' by Sezairi Sezali

Judges' comments :

Dick – You created a lovely mood with the song but you were off pitch in the falsetto parts.

Flo – That was very romantic. No doubt you would have gained new female fans with the song.

Ken – You’re vocally competent and in a good position to go to the Top 3.

summerr says :

I have loved this song from the moment I heard it months ago in that lil vending machine room. It always gives me goosebumps. After the performance, Airi said to me he couldn't believe he couldn't hit his own notes (aiya one part oni)....but he was sick la. Anyway, its always the beautiful lyrics of this song that gets me...

Spec 11 : Step Up & Dance

'Mad' by Ne Yo

Judges' comments :

Dick – It just did not feel right for me.

Flo – That felt insincere, it just wasn’t you.

Ken – You are slacking, not your best and you know that.

summerr says :

To be honest I love it when Airi sings R&B. I think he did a decent job on this song. I had thought he had gone flat at points, but it could have been his arrangement. Watching it again now, I'm sure he made a coupla hearts flutter, especially in the last chorus/verse :) I totally disagree w the judges though.

Spec 11 : Step Up & Dance

'Caught Up' by Usher

Judges' comments :

Dick – Quite convincing, good try. Could have picked a better song. Your dance moves were pretty okay.

Flo – I thought that was another awkward performance.

Ken – Tonight it did not happen for you. You need to provide us with a significant performance.

summerr says :

I actually quite enjoyed this one with the dancing and the dancers. And with all the moves, his voice didnt quiver either, so I give him props for that - singing live and dancing is no joke . Good job Airi.

Spec 12 : Judges' Choice (both songs chosen by Florence Lian)

'Your Body's A Wonderland' by John Mayer

Judges' comments :

Dick – You have made this series quire classy. Its great to see you with your guitar.

Flo – You have every chance of getting to the finals.

Ken – Best male contestant of this season.

summerr says :

Flo picked the kind of song that suits Airi's vibe and vocal tone. But it sounded like he went a lil flat in places. But that mini guitar solo was cool and so was the adlibbing, cos the song basically doesn't go anywhere on its own, so he had to 'dress it up' a little and I'm glad he did.

Spec 12 : Judges' Choice (both songs chosen by Florence Lian)

'Haven't Met You Yet' by Michael Buble

Judges' comments :

Dick – It was the most perfect song for you. It was the essence of you. It was great!

Flo – You can’t fake likeability. Look at them, they love you!

Ken – Not sure if that was one of your best or better performance? Well done.

summerr says :

This is a great song choice. It gives Airi a chance to showcase his cheeky side (agree with Dick, 'essence'). Vocals were spot on, but what thrilled me was that he totally owned the stage (and Flo) in this one :) I actually loved this one more than Virtual Insanity. And I'm glad this is the last song of the Spectaculars for him. Now its time to up the ante at Indoor.

So that was all of Airi's performances on this season of Singapore Idol. Hope you enjoyed taking that walk down Idol memory lane with me.

Love ya Airi, all the best for Sunday, BRING IT! May the best talent win!

xoxo, s.

Sylvia Ratonel's Idol Journey - The Performances

Sylvia's Idol Journey....

Finally I can post this!

I first started this post almost a week ago, but its taken til now to finish compiling all her vids, one was missing and I had to get it recorded, extracted, converted then uploaded in order to make this listing of vids complete. (In case you're wordering, I'm talking about the Spec 4 vid which is still subpar, but will have to do.)

Below, you'll see Sylvia's transformation throughout the season via her performances from Piano Shows all the way to the last spectacular almost 2 weeks ago. I've also included judges' comments as well as my own. Video borders are pink cos her colour for the Finals is PINK!

Hope you'll enjoy taking this trip down memory lane as much as I did compiling it...

Piano Show #2

'Mercy' by Duffy

Judges' comments :

Ken, in the earlier audition rounds, put his name at stake by proclaiming Sylvia as “Top 10 material”. She certainly did not let Ken down, with her kitty-sexy rendition of Duffy’s “Mercy”. Halfway through the song,Sylvia already had the other two judges and live” audience lapping out of her hand.

Dick Lee : "When you came on I thought, 'Eh the guest artiste came on already ah? That performance was great, you don't need to be in this show."

Florence : 'Top 10 material...its no longer a question."

Ken : "I think the viewers are beginning to understand that I'm never wrong."

summerr says :

Clearly a break-out performance. I liked that her transformation from 'auditions' to this show was quite dramatic - you have to agree, with the bangs, and smoky eye makeup - Sylsyl wowed.

Spec 1 : Chart Toppers

'Fallin'' by Alicia Keys

Judges comments :

Dick – You’re gorgeous! Easily the sexiest singer Singapore has seen.

Flo – The sex kitten has officially been unleashed. Boomz!!

Ken – Your last performance raised the bar and with this performance you have widened the gap.

summerr says :

I have to say, I actually forgot that she sang this song. Watching it back, I vaguely remember it, but I have to say, Sylvia looked gorgeous! Comments from the judges were good, so all's goode :)

Spec 2 : The Year I Was Born

'Sweet Child 'O' Mine' by Guns & Roses

Judges comments :

Dick – As always you look hot, but the performance was lukewarm. This genre is not for you.

Flo – That was not comfortable but it was an energetic performance. You will make it to the next round.

Ken – There was no improvement to build supporters. You need to be good every week, so don’t get complacent.

summerr says :

SylSyl has TWO brothers? Why did I always think she was an only child? She never talks about them. Anyway, I actually enjoyed this performance. No improvement or big wow from the week before, but it was enjoyable and entertaining.

Spec 3 : An Asian Feast

'Sinaran' by Sheila Majid

Judges' comments :

Dick – You chose a beautiful song and sang it beautifully. Week after week you own the stage.

Flo – It was delicious, delectable and delightful.

Ken – This performance was a lot better than last week’s. You don’t have a unique voice but you can stand out from the rest if you have a style of your own.

summerr says :

Back when I first did the review, I remember thinking Sylvia looked like she was concentrating really hard throughout the performance. Watching it again now, so many weeks on, I think she actually did a really good job. She had energy and covered the stage well. Well done girl, especially on a song in a language she didn't even understand!

Spec 4 : A Tribute To Michael Jackson

'The Way You Make Me Feel' by Michael Jackson

Judges' comments :

Dick – You can tackle all genres and you do it well. Tonight you were a little bit ok for me. You’re losing the fire; that was not 100% from you, only 70%.

Flo – Vocally you did not nail it but as a performer you have blossomed. You have become a star. Welcome to the Top 10!

Ken – Out of thousands, you have lived up to expectations. You will be in the Top 4!

summerr says :

Sorry about the poor visual quality of this vid, best I could do since this vid wasn't available on youtube. Anyway, I liked this performance actually, bearing in mind its not an easy song to sing. She certainly looked the part.

Spec 5 : For Someone Special

'When You Believe' Whitney Houston with Mariah Carey

Judges' comments :

Dick – Consistently you pick good songs and deliver them beautifully but you need to sing with more heart and emotions.

Flo – You sang with the confidence of a professional.

Ken – You were too pre-occupied with the lyrics of the song. You need to focus on the emotions.

summerr says :

Definitely would have to agree with the judges. She did seem distracted with roving eyes, but she did her best to put up a confident front.

Spec 6 : Mambo Mania

'I Wanna Dance With Somebody' by Whitney Houston

Judges' comments :

Dick – The others are strong this season. You’re strong too but I don’t think you’re fighting hard enough.

Flo – Too distracting of a performance, however I don’t think you’re in danger this week.

Ken – You gave the best performance of the season when you sang Mercy. Tonight it was the best performance it terms of pitching, but if you want to 'come back' you can't do it with a song like this, it was still too mild.

summerr says :

I have to say, watching it this time, I'm in total disagreement with the judges. I thought she did 'bring it' with this song. I enjoyed her energetic performance. On tv, it wasn't thaaaat 'distracting' thanks to the camera cut aways.

Spec 7 : My Folks Love This

'Warwick Avenue' by Duffy

Judges' comments :

Dick – It been a very long time since Singapore has seen a beautiful and talented singer. You’re very soulful and you chose the right song.

Flo – You went from zero to hero. I hope Singapore votes for talent tonight and keep you in the competition.

Ken – This is a comment for your supporters: they need to vote aggressively and keep you in the competition.

summerr says :

To me, this was her comeback performance. Its my favourite performance. I also loved her outfit and hair. Plus, I don't know if it was the pain from her stomach cramps or the fact that she'd been sick for the previous 3-4 days with stomach flu, but she looked....'pained' which suited the song perfectly. Loved it all la.

Spec 8 : Killing Me Softly

'Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow' by Amy Winehouse

Judges' comments :

Dick – That performance was so sexy! I am completely blown away. It was a beautiful rendition.

Flo – You pulled it off beautifully. There is no reason why both girls should not make it to the next round.

Ken – I also think it was very sexy! Obviously you are better than the guys and deserve to be in the final 2.

summerr says :

Loved. It. So Sexy! :)

Spec 9 : You Asked For It

'Cry' by Mandy Moore

Judges' comments :

Dick – Very poised, elegant and sensational but I am not feeling the fire from you. I need more!

Flo – Your ability to emote is excellent. It was a heartfelt and powerful delivery.

Ken – I am glad you are able to sell yourself well. You can afford to take risk with your voice. Don’t be boring and play it too safe.

summerr says :

It always cracks me up whenever Sylvia says 'Certainly' to the judges. She's done it a few times throughout the season. I've asked her about it, and she says she always mentally kicks herself after she says it, and tells herself, 'hello you're not in a hotel right now!' <--hilarious!

Anyway, I thought this was a good performance. When Iz and I first heard her sing this in the vending machine room, it was pretty clear this was the song to go with out of all the song suggestions you guys sent in.

Spec 10 : Song For A Cause (In Commemoration of World AIDS Day)

'I'll Be Here' by Sylvia Ratonel

Judges' comments :

Dick – A very elegant, sophisticated performance, what we expect from you.

Flo – It’s a potential radio hit. It’s just sensational.

Ken – You are here on your own merits and deserve to be here in the Top 4 more than anyone else.

summerr says :

I liked this song. But instead of calling it 'I'll Be Here', I thought it shoulda been called 'I'll Hold Your Hand'.

Spec 10 : Song For A Cause

'Make You Feel My Love' by Adele

Judges' comments :

Dick – That was a very Sylvia performance, and I love Sylvia :)

Flo – A mesmerizing performance.

Ken – Best song choice tonight. Simple, not showing off, but sincere.

summerr says :

You know what, I take it back, THIS one (instead of Warwick Avenue) has got to be my favourite performance. The song is good, but its the way SylSyl sings it that made it great for me. I loved her phrasing when she says 'a million years', its so warm and reassuring.

Spec 11 : Step Up And Dance

'I Don't Need A Man' by Pussycat Dolls

Judges' comments :

Dick – It was a decent attempt. You got to give it a lot more!

Flo – Vocally you were not delivering. It was all right.

Ken – Not a song I like to hear you sing.

summerr says :

Not my favourite performance from Sylvia, cos I felt that eventhough she tried not to show it, one can see that she's preoccupied with remembering the choreography.

Spec 11 : Step Up & Dance

'American Boy' by Estelle

Judges' comments :

Dick – You completely re-deemed yourself! You picked a fantastic song.

Flo – I would be very proud to play that on radio.

Ken – Good choice of song. You’re going to be in the final 2.

summerr says :

This song is SOOOO Sylvia :) Aced it, even with the slip-up on the lyrics that no one really noticed *wink* - did you notice it? It was Dick's fave song, and HE enjoyed it :)

Spec 12 : Judges' Choice (both songs chosen by Judge Ken Lim)

'Angel' by Sarah McLachlan

Judges' comments :

Dick – In the entire season 3, this was the first time I was so completely mesmerized.

Flo – That was tender, moving and sincere. And if you don’t mess up in your next song, you will be in the final 2.

Ken – Wasn’t that a clever song choice! You can’t manufacture that kind of honesty.

summerr says :

Mesmerizing is the word. Elegant, riveting and oh so hauntingly beautiful - nicely done SylSyl :)

Spec 12 : Judges' Choice (both songs chosen by Judge Ken Lim)

'Held' by Natalie Grant

Judges' comments :

Dick – You’re very versatile. You can do any kind of genre and still shine.

Flo – I’ll see you at the finals.

Ken – It’s not an easy song to sing and you pulled it off.

summerr says :

I hadn't heard this song before and even after hearing it on Youtube and watching the video, the song left no impression on me other than that it was a fairly nice (although common-sounding) song. When Sylvia sang it, she somehow made it her own. She OWNED it. And it was so believable.

So, that was Sylvia Anne Ratonel's performances for this season of Singapore Idol. What did you think? Worthy of Top 2?

I certainly think so. Certainly :)

Love ya, SylSyl, all the best this Sunday! May the best talent win :)

xoxo, s.

ps. Next up later tonight (gawd, its Monday morning 7.12am, and I haven't slept!), Sezairi's Idol journey! Good night/morning all!