This week Cowboy Troy and Wynonna are both on the stage, and Troy introduces Wynonna, standing beside him. Wynonna and Cowboy Troy next introduce the musical guest of the week, with Wynonna saying: "Here with a real fine way to start, say hello to a beloved member of our Nashville Star family. She is perfect. A double platinum hitmaker, and one of People Magazine's 50 Beautiful People." Troy interjects, "Girlfriend was 'Born to Fly.'" Wy says, "You're so corny." Troy says, "I'm just a little excited, I can't help it." Wy says, "I am too. Give it up for Sara Evans."
Sara comes out and sings "Real Fine Place to Start." I noticed Tamika from Season 3 in the audience during Sara's performance. Also noticed Jewels Hanson from this season's show.
After the intro credits roll, Wy and Troy are back on the stage with the finalists. We are introduced to the judges; Phil Vassar, Anastasia Brown, and guest judge Naomi Judd. Next, we meet the finalists, Melanie Torres, Kristen McNamara, Nicole Jamrose, Casey Rivers, Matt Mason, Jared Ashley and Chris Young.
The first performer singing this week is: Chris Young.
In his pre-recorded piece, Chris says:
"Probably my biggest fear right now... something that's just running through the back of my mind is what every artist fears. It's that for some reason, people won't connect with you. 'Cause that's the artist's job. That is our job. To write, sing and play songs that the audience connects with. I think that's what we're nervous about when we're picking out our songs every week. You know, if you don't connect with them, they aren't going to love you as much. I want people to hear my voice and go, that's Chris Young."
Chris performs "Real Good Man."
Anastasia: Chris. Man, your performance right then, just set the bar for the rest of the night. I hope you all were watching (speaking to the other finalists), and you did Tim proud. Good job. Congratulations. And I even found you a little sexy tonight.
Phil: I think you did great, man. That's a great way to start the show. I'm starting to hear your voice now, through all these cover songs, which is really great. I think you've got a real shot to win this show.
Naomi: Three reasons I've been watching this show.Wynonna, Cowboy Troy and you. You have the most distinctive voice of anyone on this show. Tonight I was really hoping you were going to show me the money. It might be all downhill from now on, because you're the man. I love your distinctive vocal talent.
Chris: Thank you very much.
Wynonna: Don't let it go to your head, 'cause I'll have to bring you back down to reality. Nicely said mom. So, which is it? Are you a real....
Chris: I may be a real bad boy, but baby, I'm a real good man.
Wynonna: So, which one are you?
Chris: Well, tonight I'm a little bit of both, because my parents are in the audience.
Wynonna: Good answer. Chris Young, everybody.
My thoughts: Wow! Just when I think Chris can't get any better... he does. What a great performance. Even though this is a Tim McGraw song, I really feel he made it his own. Like Anastasia said, I really think he raised the bar, and everyone else is gonna have to really kick their performances up too, to keep up.