Wynonna: Wow. It's a tough business, you know it. There are so many people giving you advice, telling you what to do. I always say, butts and opinions. Everybody's got one. But, I really wanna hear from you about what you're thinking about. Why did you pick that song?
Casey: Well, America has seen me with a guitar strapped to my back the last three shows.
Wynonna: A what?
Casey: A gee-taar (that was how Casey pronounced it). And you know. I don't know. You can have straight lace country, but I think when people show their versatility, and I think I showed that tonight. I got off the stool, and I did a trademark song, and I think I did that well.
Wynonna: Well, I think you did well in my opinion. Casey Rivers everybody.
My thoughts: I was so disappointed with this song choice. I am glad he's doing something different. It was a good, not a great performance.
We get to see another Tostitos moment, and this week the finalists all do impressions of each other. Matt does Casey. Nicole does Jared. Casey does Melanie. Jared does Chris Young. Kristen does Matt. Nicole does Kristen. Chris does Jared. Hilarious stuff.
The fourth finalist to perform this week is: Jared Ashley.
In his pre-recorded piece, Jared says:
"In the first few episodes I chose to do songs that everybody knows, and this week's the true test, I think. Because I'm gonna have to walk out there, and it's gonna be different for me. 'Cause I have been rockin' it up, the last couple of weeks. So, I felt like, this week I'll do a power ballad. I'm not gonna be sittin' on a stool or anything like that. I'm still gonna rock the damn thing out. So be prepared for that. Still gonna have to get up when I come out."
Jared sings "It Would Be You."
Anastasia: Jared, you sure are confident. I bet you have your way with the ladies, don't ya. No, really, tonight I believe you phoned in your performance.
Phil: What does that mean?
Anastasia: You didn't sell it, you didn't move me.
Phil: I'm surprised how comfortable you look. I mean, I think you really are comfortable, and I think that's really good. I think everybody looks kind of nervous. It was different for you to do a ballad tonight, and I like that. I think your strength is definitely the rockin' stuff. But, I think you did a good job.
Naomi: He's comfortable because he does 160 dates a year. That shows. You have good pitch. And I certainly appreciate the little twirls. You definately have the 'tear in my beer' thing going for you. Watch the nasal, thin sound, though. Watch that.
Wynonna: Hi Jared.
Jared: How are you?
Wynonna: Um, how am I? It doesn't matter about me. It matters about you. You're the one. It's kinda tough tonight for you. I'm glad that you did a ballad, but, what are you feeling right now?
Jared: I'm just happy to be here. Really, I mean. Thank you for letting me come out another show. Thank you so much.
Wynonna: Mom said you do a lot of concerts every year. I mean, you have your own bus, your own band. You're a serious businessman. I think that gives you an advantage.
Jared: I just love music, and I love to tour the country. And, that's what I'm going to do the rest of my life. And, I'm gonna do it regardless of what anybody says. I mean I just love to play music.
Wynonna: So, there. Jared Ashley, everybody. Well said, my dear.
My thoughts: Jared has the weakest voice of the finalists that are left, in my opinion. But, this song is a good choice for him. He had that gritty sound, similar to Gary Allan, and it's a good fit with the song. Good job.