This week Alicia Keys graced the stage as American Idol Gives Back kicked off  and who got kicked off american idol april 21.  This week's theme of Inspirational Songs should have been the perfect avenue for Keys and the remaining seven
contestants. I'm a huge fan of Alicia Keys - she's super talented and should have been able to really give these struggling wannabes some great advice.

So here's how it all went down.
Casey James chose "Don't Stop" by Fleetwood Mac, which, in Simon's opinion, was "a lazy choice" for Casey. We all know he can rock out on the guitar, but I have to agree with Simon that it was "not inspiring." In fact, I was having flashbacks to the week of the Huey Lewis fiasco while he was performing - not a good sign. Come on Casey, you have to live up to the performance that convinced us all - "Jealous Guy" - if you intend to stay in this competition.

Lee Dewyze picked Simon and Garfunkel's "The Boxer." While still not quite the "inspirational" song I would expect, Lee continues to grow as a performer and musician. This week he really pulled it out. His performance was original, soulful and inspirational, just like it should have been. Simply put, Lee rocked out, completely the opposite of Casey James.

Tim Urban's performance of "Better Days" by Goo Goo Dolls was yet another uninspiring performance. This type of song really fits Tim best - sort of emo-alternative rock. But Tim just doesn't have the control to pull off this level of vocals. He was pitchy from note one. And it didn't get any easier for him. He ended on a sharp note to top it all off. This was a cheap karaoke knock-off performance.

Aaron Kelly chose to sing R. Kelly's "I Believe I Can Fly." This song has been done so many times. And I'm really tired of hearing people attempt to sing it. Granted, Aaron has the range to pull off a vocal at this level, but his performance was really just another karaoke performance. I think Aaron's problem is that he's just a superficial performer and lacks depth. I have to agree with Simon and would have turned it off in the first 10 seconds (or less) if I heard it on the radio. Hey, I heard Glee and High School Musical 3 are looking for some new talent! I bet Simon will put in a good word for ya!. Jodie M. Cordell