The show started with a recap of last weeks show and then tells that the contestants will be performing with Montgomery Gentry and honoring some US heroes at the Wildhorse Saloon as their Challenge of the week.
The finalists are brought to the stage. All eight will be performing as there was a technical glitch last week, so next week two will be eliminated.
Tonight they'll be singing their original songs. They introduce Rodney Crowell, who is the special guest, and he goes to sit in the audience. Then they introduce the judges.
First to perform is Matt Lindahl.
Song is called "Jump Off The Bridge"
Brett: Matt, you are hilarious. I mean, everybody in this country needs to lighten up a little bit. I've talked to girl's this week who have had erotic dreams about you, I swear. I'm not kidding, and after your performance, I can see why. You're hilarious. I love it.
Brad: And it wasn't even your step sister.
Tracy: Listen, first of all Matt, you and all the contestants should really feel the Rodney Crowell mojo on that stage., because he's one of the best songwriters around. But I gotta tell ya, you've got your own mojo going. I don't know what the heck to do with you, but there's something there buddy.
Billy: That's great, and I'll tell ya Matt, she can sign you, but I'jm telling you write now. We've talked before, I know you can sing, you've got charisma. That song would never ever get played on the radio.
Tracy: There's life beyond radio.
My thoughts: While I'm glad to see Matt back to his more unique self, I'm not sure about the song he performed. It was funny, but like Billy said, that will never be played on radio.
Second to perform is Jennifer Hicks.
Song is called "Lost in the Magic of You"
Tracy: You know, Jenn, what I like about you? You're more of a song stylist, rather than a big range singer, and you need to make sure you find songs that fit you,a nd you did with that one.
Billy: Sheila, I felt from the first time I saw you several weeks ago, you just have it. You got the style, you got the look, something in your eyes when you're singing just blows me away. And I think you could be huge.(NOTE: notice that he calls her by the wrong name?)
Brad: You redeemed yourself from last week completely, and I knew, I just had the feeling you wre gonna be one of those artists that was better off doing their original songs. That was fabulous. I loved it.
Brett: I don't buy autographs, but I'd buy yours, I really would.
My thoughts: I was kinda hoping Jennifer would sing something upbeat, but I did like her original song. It fit her voice, and she did a good job.
They announce that Willie Nelson will be joining them live next week, and performing on the show.
Third to perform is George Canyon.
Song is called "Good Day To Ride"
Billy: George, you win first and foremost because radio loves a good uptempo song. And secondly you got the right name, cuz I think you could be the next George Strait for the next 20-30 years. Nice job, that was great.
Brett: George, the song wasn't that great to me. But you know what, you do everything right. You come out here like a professional every week. As an American, all I wanna know is that you're gonna support our troops as a Canadian? Alright? I'm just kidding. It was really great. You're a professional.
Brad: And I don't want to beat a dead horse, but you gotta see the resemblence (holding up Buzz Lightyear toy). It's uncanny. Put Woody's hat on him.
Tracy: (Speaking to the Warren Brothers) Yeah, it must give you a woody. Oh, did I say that? Ooh, I'm sorry, it's them. It's the Warren Brothers. You know what, you're always consistant. You're always good.
My thoughts: First, was happy to see George in a Manual-style jacket. Very cool. The song was great as well. I have heard a clip of this on his song on his site and liked it then, and liked it even better live.
