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Not all 'Idol' finalists are treated equally

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Nate Soules | 4:09 p.m. April 18, 2008

Come on here let's get real she is not only crying but let's face it she's jealous. Not too mention the Deseret Morning News got what they bargained for by hiring someone with no journalistic background at least from what we know. I am not attacking her ability, what I am attacking is that she had her chance, it is over, stop living in the past, and actually do what you have preached. Shame on the Deseret News for fueling the flames. We all get our chance to do something where we used our talent on the stage but that doesn't mean you need to cry about it either. Everyone supported Carmen while she was going through her run for the most part and why can't she support these people in their run. Sour grapes if you ask me. Again she is very talented, but lay off of them. Don't need to make it worse.

Dirk Strongjaw | 4:07 p.m. April 18, 2008

Re: Sugar, you aren't

There are not enough Mormons in the entire church to make much of a difference in the voting. Let's hypothetically do some fun math

AI weekly ratings are roughly in the 22 million range. Let's say a fifteenth of that audience is Mormon, not unreasonable. That leaves us with 1,466,667 people. Let's say 2/3 of those mormons don't vote. We're down to 488,889 voters. Let's say half of them vote for a mormon - roughly 244,445 It's a common phenomenom that AI voters vote multiple times, so to be reasonable, because some vote exponentially some vote less, let's say that each person votes 4 times. Total vote count for a Mormon contestant - minus any none mormon voting for Mormons mind you - drum roll please... 977,778 votes! Almost a million from just Mormons alone.

Yeah, it's very hypothetical but let's be honest, it's not unreasonable and thusly - There are enough Mormons in the church to make a difference in the voting.

You're welcome Carmen, David, Brooke, et. al.

wasafan | 4:10 p.m. April 18, 2008

season two was the worst of all the AI seasons so far...and for the Simon haters...we live in a world where the customer is always critical...Simon is the only judge being a judge...Paula is a cheerleader and Randy is there to try proving to the world that he is still hip...and failing miserably! I am sure all of you, when eating at a restaurant and your order comes out wrong, go tell the chef..."hey, at least you are putting yourself out there"...give me a break. A judge's job is to judge...get over it!

Comments continue below

sam | 4:36 p.m. April 18, 2008

Au contraire, JJ..... AI fans are very aware that there is something extremely fishy about the way the show is run. That is why they support their favorite contestants so loyally, because they know the kids have worked their butts off to entertain the masses, all while wading through the muck of a faux legitimate talent competition. Everyone knows by now that the producers chose a Golden Child at the beginning of each Top 12 & pimp that person relentlessly through the finals. This yr it's little Davey A. Gotta grab some of that teenybop Hannah Montana moolah, dontchaknow????

andrewute1 | 4:39 p.m. April 18, 2008

Carmen is living in the past, sounds like a byu fan

doug | 6:36 p.m. April 18, 2008

I guess I must not read Carmen enough. I just read this article and got a totally different take. I didn't think she was dissing Clay. It sounded like if she was dissing anyone it was the vocal coach. Telling what actually happened isn't sour grapes, it's just telling what happened.

Who in the world thought she said anything about "prejudice" because she was from Utah or a possible Mormon? Now that is a huge stretch!!! That was no where in there at all. My assumption from that post is the person is anti-Mormon and filters everything through those "prejudiced" eyes.

I think she just pointed out what we all already know - people have favorites, even when they try to be fair.

Sarah | 7:18 p.m. April 18, 2008

To the person who said that Carmen and Clay talk once a week, I find that difficult to believe. He is so busy that the only people he talks to that often is his Mama. Besides when asked who he keeps in touch with from AI, he says Kelly and Ruben. He never mentions Carmen.

As far as AI this year, I think in the beginning, David A was the chosen one. I do think that has switched to David C. now though.

AG | 8:44 p.m. April 18, 2008

Carmen, I liked your article. Pay no mind to the comments made by a certain over-the-top fanbase.

Anonymous | 1:05 a.m. April 19, 2008

AG: I don't appreciate your reference to "a certain over-the-top fanbase." This "certain performer" is amazingly talented and kind and a very hard worker. (Oh, and by the way, he is doing an amazing job on Broadway.)

Bookaholic | 3:41 a.m. April 19, 2008

I think people are being unfair to Carmen. People are interested in her point of view since she's been there, done that. If you don't care for her column, don't read it. I am, and I do.

I'm mainly interested because I'm really taken with David Archuleta. Sam, you're off base about David A's fans. They did a poll recently, and it turned out that 70% of David's fans were female, 30% male and sorted out this way: 29% female 17 and under, 1% male 17 and under; 16% female 18-30, 11% male 18-30; female 25% 30+, 17% male 30%.

I'm in my 50s (actually, today is my birthday), and I'm sitting here reading the news and listening to David's "When You Believe" on repeat. Bought the studio version from iTunes, and it's just HEAVENLY. No growls, no false--just straight-up beautiful, soulful singing. Wow!

David's live performance was great, and I was impressed that he took on Mariah's challenge and did the falsetto. But, boy, you should hear the studio version! *faint* Love it! Love him!

How CUTE and CLASSY was the David sit-down on Wednesday's elimination show? Was grateful Cook sat with him. I sense real friendship there.

Bookaholic | 3:38 a.m. April 19, 2008

Oops...that last statistic should read 17% male 30+. I should have proofread instead of skimming.

Bob G | 5:45 a.m. April 19, 2008

Wake up people, it's a show. It's primary purpose is to sell the products that advertisers are paying it to do. Like all game shows, and this qualifies as one, its all hype and lots of rigging on the outcome. Fair is not in the contract to contestants and they can pick and choose what ever is shown on the tube. The show is not even entertaining to a very lot of people and I am one of them. But having been around since live TV and all the changes over the years, game shows are the least entertaining and prey on the greed of individuals. Creating greed is what it does very well. When Johnny Carson retired we lost more than just the man, we lost real entertainment and a real doing a real job of entertaining that had some character. Reality TV is another big loser and even less entertaining, and also rigged. The idol show is out for emotional viewers and a disgusting program selling its commercial products, with maybe a few that get some money. A game show like all the rest with losers that watch it.

Heather | 6:56 a.m. April 19, 2008

Sarah- Carmen herself told me that she and Clay speak once a week.

Anonymous | 7:49 a.m. April 19, 2008

Relax people, Carmen is just giving her experience.

Let's get to this year.

My favorites:
David Cook
Carly
David Archuleta
Brooke
Jason
Syesha

David Cook has a swarmy personality. Reminds me of Constatine but he has talent.

It will come down to the 2 Davids

Susan C | 9:37 a.m. April 19, 2008

Carmen,you're great. It just amazes me how cruel and angry people can be. Your perspective on AL is valuable and that's how you saw things. I appreciate your comments. I thought you were very good and so enjoyed your performances! You didn't say one thing about being from Utah or being a Mormon and some of these bloggers seem to have their own agenda against those two right?
So what else is new? Typical!!! I see no bitterness in your comments!! Good for you for sharing your comments from your experience! I can only imagine how intimidating it all is and at such a young age! Obviously, most Americans thought you were pretty get to get Carmen, continue to be honest& tell it like it is. People are very judgmental. Realizing how mean people are....it's no wonder there's so much war in this world! People would rather criticize and tear down than inspire. You are an inspiration to me! KEEP ON WRITING THOSE ARTICLES :)

You be the judge | 9:43 a.m. April 19, 2008

youtube "Carmen rasmusen, Nothin' like the Summer" It's worth a listen. It might surprise you.

sheknewbetter | 11:49 a.m. April 19, 2008

Thing is, Carmen knows that any mention of Clay gets attention, and used against Clay. Case in point, this story is now on TMZ. And how many times has Carmen went on msnbc(??) as an "expert" about AI and Clay? Yes, she has been on there for stories about Clay!! Get a life Carmen, and leave Clay's alone.

mario08 | 11:53 a.m. April 19, 2008

Carmen and Clay were given a second chance because the producers and judges had specific reasons to have them in the broadcast show. Simon chose Carmen, he had his reasons.
As the show developed what Clay could bring to the show was way more than what Carmen could. That was obvious and we all witnessed it. Clay wanted it more. He showed it and took the challenge against the favorite, Reuben.

Carmen was a niche contestant, she represented certain communities and those guys supported her as far in the competition as they could with their votes. Every year there are contestants that attract this kind of support but as the competition goes on you need to appeal to a broader audience. Clay could, Carmen couldn't. With or without extra help she would have not been able to make it. She didn't have the goods to go any further. Watch American Idol Rewind if you want to refresh your memory.

BWAH | 12:03 p.m. April 19, 2008

well AG, better to have an over the top fanbase then NO fan base, right Carmen?

Go Carmen | 12:48 p.m. April 19, 2008

Carmen, a while ago I heard a song of yours on a local country station. I was so excited to hear it was YOU who just sang. I admit I didn't watch AI when you were on and am only familiar with you from singing in the movie "Pride and Prejudice", but I loved what I heard you sing on the radio, but unfortunately I don't think I've heard that song again. Getting your name out is so hard in the music business and I'm excited to hear you finally have a solid contract. I had hoped to meet you a couple of years back at a songwriters night I was holding, but you got stuck recording in the studio, so just know that we who are in the crazy world of the music business salute your fortitude and overall great attitude. Anyone who knows anything about the music business knows that every "Overnight success" took years to get there. That includes Brooke White and David Archuletta who I suspect are both going to go far after AI, Brooke as a Carly Simon re-incarnate and David as the Josh Grobin of pop/soul.

Rand | 2:04 p.m. April 19, 2008

Sometimes, you are just Not good enough for what thwy are looking for.

Amused | 7:00 p.m. April 19, 2008

If you'd had enough talent, you'd have a singing career. Don't forget, Clay didn't win. It seems you have extended your 15 minutes by posting catty, snide comments in some obscure column. Compared with this year's talent, you wouldn't have made the top 24. Fish and houseguests start to stink in 3 days, so the saying goes. I think Idol has-beens might just do the same.

pat sloane | 10:13 p.m. April 19, 2008

season 2 have been over for 5years. why reharshed it. it is what you make post idol is what counts. so far, you have not attained any celebrity status beside commenting for idol shows. your finally release your album but got nowhere. there is stars. and wannabe stars and you my dear carmen are a wannabe. any amount of coaching wouldn't make any difference anyway. you either got it or you don't.

megan | 12:20 a.m. April 20, 2008

Wow Carmen! Clay was such a big supporter of you during AI2! I can't believe you would diss him in your blog. What has happened to you and Kimberly Locke? Sour grapes or what? Clay has ever said anything negative against either one of you in print. It is sad that the friendships made between some of you during AI2 have turned out this way. I think the only ones who have remained true friends are Clay and Ruben.

Clay fought tooth and nail throughout that competition knowing full well that TPTB had picked Ruben as their chosen one. Give credit where credit is due! He should have won the competition because he has the best voice. If he practiced for 1/2 hour it is because he wanted it to be perfect. No reason to hate on him. I'm really surprised at you!

Wake up people! | 1:58 a.m. April 20, 2008

Geeze, a bunch of whining idiots here reading way too much into this simple behind the scenes factiods that many other people find interesting! I detect no sour grapes, only common sense facts that the leading contenders received a little extra instruction. Nothing was said about that being why she lost as some idiots here are inferring!

Then those of you who want to make yourselves feel better by tearing down other people's talent, who have at least had their 15 minutes of fame that you will never have! You may think you are superior by tearing someone down as having little talent because they did not win A.I., but that does not change the fact that this person has 1,000 times more talent than any of you morons have that are dissing her for not singing as well as Clay or the AI winners! Give me a freaking break losers and get a life!

sue | 9:42 a.m. April 20, 2008

carmen wrote and got her point of views across, she should be able to take others opinions too, good or bad.carmen was or is still delusional if she think coaching would have made a difference in her case. all she have supporting her 15 minutes right now are her comments on idols. why not use her talent if she have any. ruben and clay ane even kim locke went on to have music careers. carmen album sold a total of 2000 and i am being genereous, i read that it sold around 1500 total. that is pretty pathetic comparing to the millions that ruben or clay sold. she was not in the same league in the show and still is not post idol.

Mark | 9:47 a.m. April 20, 2008

Lets admit it Carmen you were a last option, you really were not choosen to be in the top 12 anyways. You were really lucky to make it where you did, so rather that be a sore loser maybe you should just be greatful that you made as far as you did. I found your article hilarious and pathetic all at the same time.... But hey I guess whatever you want to do to stay in the spotlight...

Kat | 11:56 a.m. April 20, 2008

It didn't help that Carmen's vibrato had that weird goat or sheep sound to it. Otherwise, her voice was pretty good.

Not Bleating Love | 11:58 a.m. April 20, 2008

Carmen was lucky to be there at all. She was the singer that bleated, the goat singer. She was lucky to have made it ( how I will never know) to number 6. Some very talented singers were sent home before she was.

The vocal coach spent time with Clay because Clay has a superior voice and is a true talent, as time has shown.

Carment should not be so nasty and bitter when it is a miracle that she was there at all. She WAS cute but was never a good singer and never will be.

UberStated | 3:52 p.m. April 20, 2008

There are a lot of hateful people in the comments section putting spin on the article and throwing up hate filled diatribes. How about at least pretending to read the article?

There is no possible way for her to write about her experiences without someone saying she sounds bitter.

:p

lisa | 5:36 p.m. April 20, 2008

I saw Carman in concert this past summer and her voice has really improved.
Season 2 was my favortie but Carman was not very good than and I can see why the voice coach didn't work with her.
She comes off sounding bitter in this article.
Too bad

patsy | 7:09 p.m. April 20, 2008

Wow, I see no reason for people to be so mean about what Carmen said about what happened and how she felt about it. Some of Clay's fans have really gotten mean and nasty. I'm sure Clay would be so proud--only not--of the way you talk to his friend Carmen.

I heard one of your songs recently, Carmen, and thought you had come a long way voice wise since Idol, it sounded like you had been getting some good coaching. I also agree with some of the posters on here that Clay was more mature and probably asked more questions. AI2 was my favorite season. I haven't watched the last few years, I thought the rawness of the first seasons is what made the show work--now it's just too scripted.

Joe | 11:21 p.m. April 20, 2008

Would you give Carmen a break! She is just expressing her opinion as a past contestant. I have been in the entertainment business as a professional for over 30 years. It is interesting to get the insight from someone who has been there done that. The people who write negative comments why don't you try performing one time instead of complaining and you will also have a different perspective.

Rorschach | 1:55 a.m. April 21, 2008

Folks, what you write says a lot more about you than about Carmen...

Anonymous | 7:38 a.m. April 21, 2008

Idol is not what it used to be--times have changed-I love carmen-she is a great writer!can you even imagine in past seasons to have someone like david cook-His self-released album, David Cook, is on the charts now (042108) and the current season isn't even over. Cook's 2006 CD, "Analog Heart," has been the number 1 downloaded album all weekend on Amazon's MP3 service. It even beat Mariah Carey's E=Mc2. Is this even legal??

Amy | 7:40 a.m. April 21, 2008

This is a lame and poorly written article. It's a shame that Carmen didn't simply use her experience in AI to shed light on the current season, and that she instead had to get catty over something that happened 5 years ago. She comes across as self-indulgent and pathetic. (Maybe her point would have come across differently if she'd had a 'writing coach' who cared about her more??) :)

Anonymous | 8:11 a.m. April 21, 2008

Singers should sing, and writers should write. In Her case I don't know if either applies... maybe she should make jello

Reality shows | 9:03 a.m. April 21, 2008

are all to get $$. People need to wake up and realize this. If you don't have the look, act, personality, or anything else that will get ratings, they won't put it on the show. Turn off the TV people and start spending time with friends and family. TV and shows like this that show extreme favoritism do nothing to help you in your life.

Go outside and enjoy the warm weather and get away from television. If you say it's "educational," go read a book and you'll get the same, if not better education.

re: Reality shows | 9:51 a.m. April 21, 2008

Yeah, what you said, plus quit wasting time writing on threads about TV and other stuff that does "nothing to help you in your life."

Thanks for the lecture, Pot.

Signed,

Kettle.

Susan | 9:58 a.m. April 21, 2008

Although I was not there with Carmen, I would have to agree with her article. I watch AI and tend to believe that some people get more attention then others. Some people that shouldn't be in the top 12 make it and then go farther than they should! I enjoyed Carmen when she was on AI and I really enjoy her now! I love her CD! I wish that Country radio would play it! I think alot of people would enjoy it. I am going to make some phone calls and see if some of my local stations and maybe even Sirius radio would give her a try (I listen to Sirius new country every day and I have never heard her). Carmen, you definately have a fan in me and my husband!

Troodles | 12:40 p.m. April 21, 2008

Why was this even an article and why do any of you care? This is not remotely interesting!

Jennifer | 6:54 p.m. April 21, 2008

For those of you who are dogging Carmen's singing voice, you obviously haven't heard her since she was on the show. Google her new music video "nothin like the summer."

I'm surprised at how much anger there is in people. What has Carmen really done to anyone that causes them to jump on the computer and post such unbelievably rude comments? She's a sweet, innocent, and very talented girl and people are making WAY too much of this.

Charlene | 6:55 a.m. April 22, 2008

I, for one, enjoy hearing anything that goes on with Idol. Unless the former contestants talk, we have no way of knowing anything other than what we are fed through TPTB. I like Carmen, and, feel that she is just voicing her experience. I hope to hear more. We all know the show is rigged, and, that Clay really won. People were very mean and cruel about Carmen during season 2. I know, because I was on the message boards. Her voice has matured, and, I wish her the best. She's really cute, and, deserves a break.

Steve -David A. Stop the Ballads | 1:37 p.m. April 22, 2008

Again...

I'm a fan of David Archuleta's, but the ballads every week are getting old fast. David you really need to find an up-tempo/dance/rock song or two that you can pull off just as well as the slow songs or people will consider you a "one trick pony" (some already are). Ballads are your strength and that's fine, but even Celine Dion who is the same (ballads are where she's best) throws in some up-tempo songs to liven things up and for variety.

Of course this advice is to late for tonight/this week... and I'm willing to bet big bucks that it being Broadway week (I think... otherwise why have Andrew Lloyd Weber) we'll get yet another slow song from David.

I'm beginning to think David COOK is the one who deserves to win, but we'll let Archuleta win and Cook take 2nd so the "Idol" people can't control David Cook's debut CD content and career the first year or so.

Really David A., you've managed to get your golly-gee/awww shucks behavior under control for the most part... but now you need to stop it with the ballads. Your fanbase is saving you from Amanda's fate.

Tess | 12:14 p.m. April 23, 2008

Sorry, Carmen, sweetie. But the vibrato killed it for you. That said, country is your genre, and you should do well enough, though I'm not sure you'll sell millions of CDs. Idol is not always about the talent, though. Jason Castro was the bravest soul on that stage this week with his rendition of a power song that his voice wasn't strong enough to deliver. But, he's adorable and the PYTs will keep him on for a while. What can ya do? Tough business.
Good luck to ya!

Gia | 8:30 p.m. April 23, 2008

I also have been surprised recently with the comments made by Kim Locke and Carmen. I thought they were friends with Clay. I have never heard Clay say one word against either of them. He is always plugging their accomplishments. Maybe Clay ought to just promote himself. Carmen, I saw you on CMT when your new song came out. I liked it. You are so much better now. You weren't all the great on Idol. Sorry. Good Luck with the Country CD.
I still think Clay was the best on season 2. I have been watching American Idol Rewind and in all truthfulness, you went longer then you should have.
I think you were just too young and inexperienced.

From the horse's mouth | 2:44 p.m. April 25, 2008

I was the co-producer of a charity event in which Carmen volunteered her time and talent and sang for our group. She sounded great and was a huge hit. She was very easy to work with and even took my niece aside and talked to her about show business. Thank you Carmen for your music and the great inside look at AI please keep writing and singing. You are awesome!

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