America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - June 30, 2010 - Auditions

Final Auditions Show from LA(?) tonight

Segment #1

Jimmy Dihn - 36yo - Comedian from Viet Name
Piers buzzed. Audience starting to boo. Audience "X" arms.
Three buzzes.
Howie: You are a funny man, and you were very funny when you were talking to Sharon.
Howie: No for now.
Sharon: No for now.
Piers: Your two biggest supporters have said no, so to make you feel better, I'm going to say Yes.
Sharon: You know what they call Piers? An BUZSZ.
He says he'll be back next year.

Segment #2

Kia & Sadie - Belly-Dancing Duo
Howie says, before they even introduce themsvlves, "Give us a minute"
Piers says, before they even introduce themselves, "You're going to Vegas"
Howie: I think you know... there are no words. Both of you are so... so... talented.
Sharon: You're great looking women, and it's great that you can bellydance so well.
Howie: I didn't even notice the dancing.
Sharon: He was looking at the T&T
Howie: The Talent and the Timing
Piers: I could have watched that, literally for months. Yes.
They're in.

Lindsey Stirling - Violinist/Dancer
Yes, all round.

Team X-Pogo. - Acrobatic Pogo-stick artists..
Yes, all round.

Da Maniacs - Dancers
(Most are pretty big guys, one's a little person.) Pretty good.
Sharon: Very entertaining.
Yes, all round.

Segment #3

Clownvis - King of Clowns
Piers buzzed early.
Old McDonald (as Elvis)
Piers: You come on as an Elvis impersonator, dressed as a clown, singing Old MacDonald. It is the worst act I've ever seen.
Sharon: (She has a contact high from living with Ozzie too long.) Nobody. Nobody disrespects my husband. So BEEP!
Howie: How can you follow that. (Howie Mandel hasn't made a good thing since Little Monsters).
Nick comes out taking his coat off.
Howie: Let me answer to him. BEEP.
No all round.

Andrew -
Three Sumo Wrestlers come out and wrestle.
Nope.

Tap Dancing Sara Palins.
They strip off to bras and pants
Beaver mascot comes out, and drops "pellets".
Nope.

Frequent Flyers Productions.
Howie: There wasn't a move that I thought even I could do. And Howie does it.
Nope.

Segment #4

Rick Smith Jr. Tosses playing cards.
Says he holds a world record
Yes, all round.
Throws one to spotlighter in balcony.

Phil Trau (74yo) - Tap Dance routine he did 50 years ago.
Unfolds a small set of stairs, and tap-dances on them.
Piers buzzed. (Ends in splits!)
Audience loves it.
Piers: Difficult moment for me. When I buzzed you, it was ... it was like viagra was going through me. Then when you did the splits, I knew I was going to have to do something I absolutely hate doing. I take back my "X".
Sharon called him "Sexy Phil".
Yes, all round.

Segment #5

Luigi Seno - Jazzy Guitarist/Singer
Great!
Audience loves it. Standing O.
Sharon: You have a really cool, relaxed style.
Howie: When you came out here, you appeared as a shy, young kid. But when you started strumming... If you had an album out now, I'd have it in my car.
Piers: Very relaxed style.
Yes, all round.

Segment #6

73yo - Arthur Nakani - Trying to make it for over 35 years and added many instruments. 3 hours to set up.
One-Man Band. Ambition is to let people know that anybody can do what he does.
This one is for Sharon.
"Because".
Not GREAT, but audience loved it, once he got started.
Sharon: I think that you are a very very lovely man, and you entertained me.
Howie: Thank you for being here, but no. ]
Sharon: I want to spend time with you in Vegas, so it's yes.
Piers: Arthur... I'm not going to pretend that you are the the best because you're not. But for sheer dedication, I'm going to send you to Vegas.

A review of some of the acts, to Journey's "Don't Stop Believing".

And, that's it. Next week/Tuesday & Wednesday, Vegas, Baby!

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - June 29, 2010 - Auditions

In Chicago, this show...

Segment #1

Zack - Sneezing with eyes open
Howie buzzed and left the podium back 1/2-way into the audience before he even started.
He tried for a while, then Piers buzzed him, then Howie came up and buzzed Sharon's buzz.
Howie: Can I just say something... That's not talent. H1N1. Get out.

Segment #2

The Striker's All-Stars from Tallahassee - Dance Group (Hip-Hop dance)
(Pretty good!) Crowd: VEGAS
Sharon: Wow! That was good.
Howie: I do not agree with Sharon. I think that was GREAT! I would love to see you go far with this.
Piers: You've got the look... You've got the sex appeal for the girls. You've got the whole thing.
Yes, all round.

Gentlemen of NUCO - Classical music rockers
Yes, all round.

NU Covenant (Gospel group)
Song: Shout
Sharon: You make me want to go to church.
Yes, all round.

Naishon Jones - Dancer
Audience - VEGAS
Pretty good!
He's in.

Segment #3

The Spellbinder (from Chicago) - Magician/Illusionist (50yo)
Sharon buzzed.
Dances with a hankie.
Piers buzzed. Howie buzzed.
Howie: The thing is on this show, you have 90 seconds to dazzle us, and you're dancing with a hankie.
No, all round.

Tom Zemkye(sp?) - Dance/Sing
No. (Thank God.)

(missed name) - Girl in a plastic Bubble
Buzzed by Piers and Sharon.
Howie finally buzzed.
No.

Buddy Holly Cheesehead - Sings a Cheese song he wrote.
Buzzed off.
No.

Segment #4

Carlos Aponte - Operetic Sinnger (Bocellis)
Standing O from audience and judges
Sharon: I was not expecting to hear such a huge voice...
Piers: Carlos, you don't look like normal big bold opera singers, but then you started to sing and I got goosebumps.
Yes, all round.

Segment #5

Velena Bolchick(?) - Hula-Hoops artist
Nice.
Howie - I have been to Hooters, and you know, sometimes they do the hula-hoops. You're like Hooters on steroids.
Yes, all round.

John Beatty - The Strong Man (A registered nurse)
Rolls up a frying pan, uses hand to put nail through two boards, holds 290# stone in lap and bends nail to Macho Man
Piers buzzed - For all I know, that frying pan could have been a weak one, and that stone... I've seen bigger.
Piers can't UNroll the pan. "All right. It's a little harder than it looks."
He UNrolls the frying pan for Piers. Audience: VEGAS.
Howie: Yes.
Sharon: Yes.
Piers: I'm gonna have to say yes, now, won't I?

Segment #6

Debra Romer (Kalamazoo, MI) - Plays guitar and sings (21yo)
Ran away from home at 17yo, and hasn't been back.
Foster care at 15yo. Music saved her life.
"In the Arms of An Angel"
Audience - VEGAS
Howie: You have a lovely voice and lovely look. My feeling is that you didn't own your performance. I sensed your fear of performance.
Piers: Where he senses fear, I sense vulnerability, which I find appealing.
Sharon: I get what Howie's saying. Own it what you do. At the moment, you're not doing that.
Howie: For now, it's no.
Piers: A definite nailed-down Yes.
Sharon: This contest is about going to Vegas at the end of the day, and putting on a good show. At the moment, I don't know you can do that.
(Whatever you want, I'll do it.) Well, Debra, I'm going to give you the opportunity to do that. Yes.

End of Show.

See you tomorrow.

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - June 23, 2010 (Auditions)

1-hour, tonight

From Portland, Oregan, again.

Segment #1

Soriah - Singer (chant-type)
Piers buzzed. Audience wants "X"ed.
Sharon: What was that? (Human Throat Singing.)
Buzzed off.

The Amazing Amy - Contortionist
No, all round.

Hart Keene - Swallows needles
Piers: Annoying.
No.

Natasha - Singer(?)
Buzzed off.

Segment #2

Stiltwalkers (didn't get name)
No.

The Hot Shot Tap Dancers - Family of Tap Dancers
Sharn: Standing O. Audience: Standing O.
Howie: I loved what you did. It seems so in sync... There was a unity that just makes it work.
Piers: I think you're very cool, but I wasn't wild about the choreography.
Sharon: I'm so glad that you came to this show. Fantastic.
Howie: Definitely, yes.
Piers: (Wasn't perfect, but what I see in you is a lot of promise): Yes.
Sharon: See you in Vegas.

Segment #3

Ryan and Isabelle - Dance on a Climbing Wall
Graceful!
"Already Gone" I believe was the song.
Weather warning (I'm in Indiana.)
Howie: I loved it. (Audience did, too)
Piers: Definite Yes from me.
Sharon: Yes from me.
Howie: Three yeses means you're going to Vegas.

Segment #4

RNG (??? Next Generation) - Dancers
Audience: Vegas!
Sharon has them take their masks off.
Howie: I think the best thing to do is totally honest... I like hip-hop, and you have a future in dance. BUT, if you come back, you need to step it up some more.
Piers: You have potential.
Sharon: I like it very much.
Piers: Yes.
Howie: I just can't. I just can't. ... (Piers, you can't what?) I just can't say no.
Sharon: And it's a yes from me, so we'll see you in Vegas.

Paul Jr - Singer
Great voice (Sang San Fransisco accappela)
Yes, all round.

Trapeze act (warnings cover names)
Three Yeses. They're in.

Kent Jenkins - PVC Instrument
Like the blue-man group.
Yes, all round.

Segment #5

Weather break (TS Warnings, and a few Tornado Warnings - Mostly north of Lafayette)
Some guy named Ryan - weird singing, and dancing.
Buzzed off.

Pierre ??? - 73yo Harmonica Player from Brussels
Part of the Flight of the Bumblebee
Audience likes him
Sharon: You obviously adore playing your harmonica. I really, really enjoyed your performance. However, I don't think I could hear it that often.
Piers: I have never met a harmonica-playing watch-maker, and believe you brought some ??? to our show.
Howie: I don't think you have a big enough market.
Howie: Yes.
Sharon: I have to say No.
Piers: (Audience: VEGAS) ... Time is your business. The next time I see you will be in Vegas.

Segment #6

Ali & Christina - Singing Sisters - All 4 kids int he family have Cystic Fibrosis
Message to share - You can achieve your dreams. You can do anything you set your mind to.
Howie stands and applauds before they are done.
Audience - Standing O
Sharon - Ali, I'm sorry to bring this up again. But you both have Cystic Fibrosis? Yes. They told them they would never be able to sing.
Howie - You have amazing talent. But that combined with what we know, it's amazing.
Piers - To see you two standing there singing, it's extraordinary. Having said that, you have entered this contest. I'm not going to patronize you... you're not the best singers... But I felt it. Extraordinary.
Sharon: You have the best smile and such a joy to hear you sing. I'm gonna cut to the chase... Yes yes yes.
Howie: I'd be an idiot, not to say yes.
Piers: We will see you in Las Vegas

End of show. See you next week.

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - June 22, 2010 - Auditions

Two-hour show, tonight.

From Orlando (Universal Orlando Resort)

Segment #1

Frankie Elliston - Magician
(with a roll of thread and Nick)
Chews the twine and swallows it, then it come out about his appendix spot.
Gross, but effective. (I've seen Blaine do it)
Piers: Revolting, but compelling
Howie: I've never seen anything like that.
Piers: Unique and Horrific
Sharon: I don't know whether it's good enough
Howie: Is this something you want to do in life (yes). And who do you aspire to be (Me). I love it. YOU are going to Vegas.

Another magician (missed name)
Howie - Slick and entertaining. yes.
Sharon - Yes.
Piers - Yes.

The South Philly Vikings (Costumed Dance group.
Howie: Power Rangers meet Liberace. yes
He's in.

Max Winfrey - Knife thrower
Draws a silohette around a guy and throws knives, missing one.
Nick is on other side.
He's in.

Segment #2

Erin Barylski - Rolled Paint on herself and created a flag on a piece of paper.
She's in.

Simeon Muldar - (16yo Dutch) - Play Piano as Amedeus
(Good job!) - Audience = Standing Ovation
Piers - Smart, having fun, and more talent than most here.
Sharon - I must commend you... You come in costume, etc.
Yes, all round.

Segment #3

Tiahzzi - Song & Dance
Buzzed off early (can't sing or dance!)

Master Yogi Laser - Balanced on hands and showed ass (in costume)
Buzzed off

Paul Pieorgi - I don't know! LOL
Buzzed off.

Fafo - Stripper/dancer! (Not good at either!)
Howie: A boy scout that wants to work at Hooters (costume)
Howie buzzed, Sharon buzzed.
Audience "X" HIM.
Piers did NOT buzz him.
Piers: I can now say with absolute certainanty that's the smallers talent we have ever seen.
No - All round.

Segment #4

Acrobatic Dance Troup - Missed name
Audience liked.
Howie - I like the feel of this group.
Yes, all round.

72yo Efim Tabachnicov(?) - Singing
"Some Enchanted Evening"
Buzzed as soon as he started by Piers
Followed by Sharon
Howie: This evening is now enchanted.
Piers: I think there may be a few small techniques we need to work on. Maybe a few large ones.
No, all round.

Segment #5

Harmonik - Singing group from Haitians living in the US
Want to express themselves, let the world know how they feel, and bring the money back home to rebuild the country.
"Hallelujah" (Leonard Cohen)
Started off slow haromies, then kinda gave it a Jamaican beat (or Haitian?)
Howie: I love that song, and you were very original in your arrangement of that song. I truely felt your heart in that performance.
Piers: You have a great voice, the lead singer. Great harmonies.
Piers: Yes.
Howie: Yes.
Sharon: See you in Vegas.

Segment #6

Sponjetta Parrish - Singer (written over 300 songs)
Studio
Piers and Sharon buzzed relatively quickly
Piers: The lyrics seem a bit limited.
Sharon: Great personality... The writing, though...
Howie: I'm sorry, no.
No from Piers and Sharon
Nick comes out to bring more "energy" with her.
Sharon and Howie buzzed.
Piers Buzzed.
Twice-buzzed. She's off.

Segment #7

(New show) from Portland (Pacific Northwest - for the first time)

The Magique Bazzar - Maginga the Magician and Jeannie (The Magic Jeannie)
Costumed. (Nick - I don't know about the magic, but she got the Bizarre right)
He fell off-stage.
Piers: I don't get it. (Face changed 5 times.)
Howie: Face changed from Mysterious to Ooops.
No, all round.

Buzzed off
Living Dead Girlz (Hot Zombie Dance group)
Bloody Maggie and her Pet (strangeness)
Vee Bee - Sings on the Trapeze
(Nick - It's official - Portland is the weirdest place I've ever been)
Tiny Talent - Chihuahau dogs running all over the place (including the audience and Nick chasing)

Segment #8

Balloon characters buzzed

Jeremy Van??? (long name) - Bicycle rider (Mountain bike over all kinds of things)
Nick volunteers for a stunt - bounces bike over him, then balance front of bike over his face
Shows decent stunt work, but fell, once.
Piers - You're very good. I buzz because you fell once - My rule
Howie - There's more? (Yes) - I say yes.
Piers - Because you fell, I have to say No.
Sharon - Yes.
He's in.

Segment #9 (WAY too many commercials!)

Bhamgra Empire - Indian Cultural dance group
Yes.

The Stranage Familiar (duo - piano/singer and guitarist)
Yes

Northwest Dance & Acro (7-18)
Howie: The fact that you can sit on your own head is entertaining.
Yes

Airpocolypse - Air Guitar Rockers
They start with Deliverance theme (Dueling Banjos) then go into Paranoid (Black Sabbath and Ozzie)
Slow start, and very strange, but strangely good
Audience likes them
Sharon - The music choices, absolutely sensational. Stage Presence is electric.
Howie - A unique form of entertainment.
Piers - When you walked out, I wasn't expecting much, and yet I began to really, really enjoy it.
Howie - For air guitars, you deserve air fare to Vegas.
Sharon - Yes.
Piers - Airpocolypse, you are going to Vegas

Segment #10

Iron Horse are shown. Not sure if they made it or not.

Rebecca Roundman - Celloist (electric cello)
Piers buzzed
Rock song
All buzzed.
Howie - It was very distroted, like a distorted mush of cello
Piers - I am worried that when I die, as a punishment for all the judging I've done, I will be sentenced to listen to YOU.
No, all round.

Conner Doran - Indoor Kite Flying (you fly with movement)
Epileptic as a child - When he's been told he can't do things, he says he can.
Basically "Kite dancing"
Song - "In The Arms Of an Angel" - Sarah McLaughlin
Audience loved it.
Piers: I was prepared to loath that. And then you began to do your thing, and it was one of the most extraordinary things I've ever watched.
Howie: It sent me into the same place (as it sets Conner). Very unique and entertaining.
Sharon: Very relaxing, spiritual.
Yes, all round.

Segment #11

William Scott Anderson (31yo - 14yrs in - Med Evac Technician) - Magician
(Did magic to make the children injured that they medevaced out and in the hospital, smile.)
Pretty damn good, I think.
Audience loved it.
Sharon: You entertained me. I loved your execution and style.
Piers: What I loved was not so much how you did it, but your delivery - Military.
Howie: Loved it. Suggested: Expand the military part of it.
Yes, all round.

Segment #12

Sally Cohn (75yo - former teacher) - Hand-Whistle
Plays "America The Beautiful"
Sharon buzzed.
Audience - Standing Ovation (no shouts of "Vegas", though)
Howie - You're a very lovely lady.
(Wrote a book about hand-whistling. - $12 - Howie bought one.)
Howie wants to read a passage, she said to be careful, it's not all about hand-whistling.
Along with the hand-whistling, there's a coming out story. I have nothing to hide.
Howie: I want to see you in Vegas.
Sharon: I love you, but I'm going to have to say No.
Audience: VEGAS, VEGAS.
Piers: I have the title of your next book. It is, "Handwhistling in Las Vegas".
(She's in)

That's it for tonight.
See ya tomorrow!

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - June 16, 2010 - Auditions

From Orlando, tonight

Segment #1

Jason Pote - Freestyle Dancer
(Hopped all around the stage... Not a real dance)
Piers buzzed early
Sharon buzzed next
Sharon hit Howie's button
No all round

Jonathan Timpanelli - Eyebrow Dancer
Piers buzzed early
Sharon and Piers say no.
Howie:

Hempsfrey(?) and something (no idea what they did)
Buzzed off

Soloman A - Singer (weird outfit)
(Not really)
Buzzed off

Segment #2

The Morphs - College student Dance groups
Everyone is wearing a different color body stocking, even coloring their faces (6 guys)
Piers buzzed
Sharon and Howie buzzed, next.
No all round

Billy Bob Steinberg - Drums on his bicycle
Buzzed off

Hoola Monsters - Dancing with hula hoops
Buzzed off

Stacy Weaver - Singer
Buzzed off

Lonnie Lear - plays music - Used to be a cowboy ("The Truck-driving Cowboy")
from same place as the Chicken Farmer who won last year
Says he's better than Kevin Skinner (No he's not)
Piers and Howie buzzed
Then Sharon buzzed
Howie - On a positive note... I don't have one.
No all round.

Segment #3

Nick Pike - Juggler
Piers: Simple rule - If you drop something I buzz
Six-foot Unicycle juggling flames, juggling normal pins (dropped one, piers buzzed), backflip, juggled bolls, break-danced, juggles two balls and a running chain saw.
Howie - Great stage presence, funny, fun to watch - Yes.
Piers - You know my golden rule about dropping one, but there's something about you I like... I'm going to have to say yes.
Sharon - Yes.
He's in.

Kruti Dance Acadamy - Indian (Eastern) Dancers
Yes, all round.

Lil Chris - 12yo - Sing and Dance
Good.
Yes, all round.

Jayna Lee - strong woman act
Bent over backward and nick stood on her.
Yes, all round.

Elaine something or other (73yo) - Sing and Dance
(Dressed like Tina Turner)
"Old Time Rock & Roll"
Not bad. Fun.
Yes, all round.

Segment #4

Nate Canyon (19yo) - Play guitar and sing
Music is a way to inspire people the way nothing else can.
(One of the guys you HOPE is really good. Very nervous.)
Piers buzzed.
Audience likes him. Standing Ovation.
Howie - I noticed your hand shaking, your leg shaking, you're very nervous, aren't you.
Sharon - Something special about you.
Howie - I think young ladies are going to choose you. Some have already chosen you tonight.
Piers - No. I don't think you're ready.
Howie - I think you do have the "it" factor. Yes.
Sharon - I guess I'll be seeing you in Vegas.

Segment #5

Twisted Tristan and Kristan - Sideshow performers
He swallows a sword (said he spent 4 days int he hospital a couple of weeks ago)
Whe drops a drill down his throat (turning drill.
(No judge wanted to look.)
Piers: The pair of you are mad.
Sharon: I didn't watch 1/2 of it, becuase I didn't want to upchuck.
Howie: We have seen sword-swallers, something with a drill, etc. Just that you are a couple makes this compelling.
Piers: Can I see you in Vegas? Yes.
Sharon: Yes.
Howie: Doesn't matter, but yes.

Segment #6

Wreckless - Dance Team from Fort Lauderdale
Learned on their own. As a team won't let anyone stop them.
Barely had a way to get there. No professional teachers. No place to practice (did it outside), etc.
Lady Gaga's Telephone(?)
(They're pretty damn good!)
Audience "VEGAS"
Piers: The last few weeks we've had a lot of dance groups. Not enough energy, tension... Dance groups should kick butt. and it's been worth the wait. You kicked butt.
Sharon: Very raw, very edgy. Not polished, and that's what I liked.
Howie: Talks to a girl very emotional.
Piers: Best dance group I've seen all season. Yes
Sharon: Absolutely, Yes.
Howie: Yes, you're going to Vegas.
"Is Vegas ready for US!" ;-)

End of show.

See you next week.
(2 hour show, Tuesday, one hour on Wednesday)

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - June 15, 2010 - Auditions

from New York, this show

Segment #1

Mary Ellen 74yo - Keyboard and sing
Patsy Cline "Crazy" then yodelling
Piers buzzed before she started singing (playing KB)
Sharon Buzzed
Sharon buzzed Howie's buzzer
Piers - There may have been one or two missed notes in there.
Sharon - You're absolutely barking mad, but I love you
Howie - You said before that people say you sing like Patsy Cline. You know you don't, right? (Yes) I loved you.
Piers - No. Howie - Yes. Sharon - Yes.
Crowd was NOT into it until she started yodeling.

Break - Segment #2

Rudi Maccogi - Balance act (on head on basketball on chair)
Howie - If you were to go on, what do we have to look forward to. (Something that will blow your socks off.) Yes
Sharon - Yes
Piers - I LIKE you (Rudi's tag line)

Girl Dance Troup (missed name)
Howie - I actually felt as if my mullet was returning. Yes.
Piers - Yes
Sharon - I like you - Yes.

Derek - Yoyo performance
Cool
Piers - Yes
Howie - I love you, so yes
Sharon - Yes

Michael Grasso - Magician
A switcharoo. Good one.
Crowd: "Vegas"
Howie - Wow.
Sharon - No idea how it was done. I like your style. You have a cool factor about you.
Piers - Absolutely brilliant.
Yes, all round.

Segment #3

Anna & Patryck - Dancers (young)
Sharon - Fantastic. There's not one bad thing I can say. You're a delight to watch.
Piers - You are very, very good dancers.
Yes, all round.

Just The Two Of Us - Lute (he built), Flute * sing (married 35 years)
Buzzed off.
Sharon - I think you're both adorable. But the singing...
No, all round.

Segment #4

39yo Chale (Joseph Ray) - Wants to become a Singer/Voice-over talent
A bad lounge act (singing) "The Look Of Love" for Sharon
Buzzed
No, all round.

Lovell & Little Willie
Buzzed off.

Main Squeeze Orchestra - Accordian band
Song: Bohemian Rhapsody
Piers and Sharon buzzed
Howie buzzed.
Sharon - Sounds like a massive Merry-Go-Round

Nina (9yo, I believe) Sings and dances with a Legit (teen dance troup)
Piers - I like the look of the group, and I like you, but it wasn't great.
Sharon - Very good stage presence. But I'd like to see it more natural. Very talented.
Howie - Nina, you're adorable. Make it a little more now.
Crowd shouts VEGAS.
Howie - Take our advice. Yes.
Piers - I don't think you're quite ready, yet, so No.
Sharon - I don't know that you're quite ready for us, yet... I really don't. Right now, I'm gonna have to say No.

Segment #5

Alice Tan Ridley. 58yo Mother of 2. Daughter was "Precious". Wants to sing. Sings in the Subway (last 20 years).
"At Last" GREAT!
Standing Ovation from the audience.
Sharon - Millions of people must have gone back and forth on the subway over the years. Why hasn't someone signed you.
Howie - You deserve to be heard.
Piers - In terms of raw talent... Best audition of the day.
Yes, all round. (Sharon: It's my honor to say, you are going to Vegas.)
(I don't know that the judges knew who she was. Nick knew her right away.)

Segment #6

Chipps Cooney - Illusionist (in comedy fashion)
Nick says "So bad, he's good"
Piers buzzed early
Howie - I'll be honest with you, I lvoed it. I love the deadpan, Sad Sack kinda persona.
Piers - I don't get it. You are assuming he's trying to be terrible. Has it crossed your mind that he's just terrible.
Audience - VEGAS
Sharon - Silly, fun, and really entertained me.
Piers - I have a fear, that these two clowns are going to put you through.
Howie and Sharon - Yes.
Piers - No.
He's in.

End of show.

Orlando, tomorrow night. See you then!

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - June 8, 2010 - Auditions

From New York City

Segment #1

Intro of the judges.

Nick comes out and tells everyone to be cool, that all the lights in the theater will go out... to focus on the stage.

Fighting Gravity - no dance experience, all college guys. Frat brothers.
Howie - Not since watching the Blue Man Group have I seen anything so unique and exciting.
Sharon - Timing is absolutely precise.
Yes, all round.
[This is the coolest act I've ever seen on AGT.]

Going to break, Howie says that their lives are going to change 180 degrees, now. I believe him.

Break / Segment #2

Gino and Tony Antonies - Singers (Gino is 72yo, son is much younger)
Song: "All By Myself" by Eric Carmen
Piers buzzed.
Sharon - You definitely sing with a lot of emotion.
Howie - The fact that you chose to do "All By Myself" as a duet...
Piers - No.
Sharon - Yes.
Howie - No.

Gentleman Joe Menchetti - Speed Eater
Tries to eat 5 pizzas in the time.
Buzzed off

Guy with a huge guitar (missed name)
Buzzed off.

Lisa Falzanni - Singer from NJ
Buzzed by Sharon first, then Piers and Howie.
Piers - Worst things I've heard in my life.

Break / Segment #3

Prince Poppycock - Kinda dressed like Marie Antoinette.
From the Barber of Seville - (missed name) - Figarro.
Not really operetic, but interesting, and pretty good.
Just a strange costume/makeup.
Standing Ovation by crowd and Sharon.
Sharon: You are magnificent. You are a true individual and a true artiste.
Piers: When someone walks on stage dressed like you, I expect them to take certain route, and instead it took a different route.
Howie: I loved it.
Yes, all round.

Break / Segment #4

The Ladies of the Peek-a-Boo Review
Sharon: Sexy, naughty
Howie: I liked how it ended better than how it began.
Yes, all round.

Jia-Yi He, Harmonica (4 of them)
Standing Ovation, crowd and judges.
Yes, all round.

The Danger Committee. Entertainers. Juggling knives and knife throwing.
Piers: Very dangerous.
Howie: Unique that we haven't seen before.
Yes, all round.

On Repeat - Singing/Rapping (one's a singer, one's a rapper)
New Radicals "You Get What You Give" in their own style.
Buzzed off. (Hardly recognizable.)
Howie: You say you know who you are as an artist. Who are you.
"I'm white and I rap." [Ooookay]
No, all round.

Break - Segment #5

Antonio Restivo - Fire illusions
(Magician with flames)
Audience like him
Howie - This is exactly the type of thing that will work in Vegas.
Piers - It was dangerous, but also very polished, slick, and entertaining.
Yes, all round. Howie said he'd even buy a ticket to see him in Vegas.

Break - Segment #6

Raymond the Amish Comedian
Not funny
Buzzed off.

Female comedian
Not that funny.
Buzzed.

Guy who falls on floor.
Buzzed.

Doogie Horner - Stand up comedian.
Howie: Comedy is really really tough. You are really funny. You sound funny, you look funny... I think you are a telented man.
Howie and Sharon Yes.
Piers: No.
He's got another chance.

End of show.

See you tomorrow.

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - June 2, 2010 - Auditions

From Dallas, tonight.

Segment #1.

ArcAttack - Produce music with lightning.
Long intro. Sharon Buzzed.
When the lightning started, though, she was flabbergasted.
Piers and Howie were wide-eyed, too.
Howie: Like if MIT had a marching band. So unique.
Piers: One of the most incredible auditions I have ever seen.
Sharon: A bit too technical for me.
Howie, yes siree.
Sharon: No.
Piers: Yes.

Jeremy - "Cut Thoat Freak Show" - A genital daredevil.
Sharon and Piers buzzed when he dropped his pants.
AGT logo covers his crotch, though he had a trash can.
Nick has to light a lighter, and begged Howie to hit the buzzer.
He didn't. Nick lights the lighter, the guy reaches out, and...

Break - Segment #2

Jeremy - Part 2
He lit his dick, just like teens have and gotten REALLY burnt.
Sharon hit Howie's Buzzer.
Piers: I would say, "Never"
Sharon: No.
Howie: I would say, without this show, go to Vegas and blow your BUZZ! No.

Janna Dora Somar - Sing, Act, Model. Singing.
Singing "You're No Good", slinking around. Not that great.
Sharon buzzed.
Piers buzzed.
Howie asks around for a dollar. And gives it to her.
Sharon: The only thing missing was the Pole.
Piers: I don't think I've ever heard a singer pick a more appropriate song.
Piers: No.
Sharon: No.
Howie: No.

Break - Segment #3

Bert Davis, his wife, and the Muttley Crew - Dog act. All rescue dogs.
To "Who Let the Dogs Out"
Fun act.
Piers; I don't normally like dog acts, but there's something about your mutts. Yes.
Sharon: Your dogs are gorgeous. It's a Yes from me.
Howie: Yes.

Le Freak
"Play that Funky Music White Boy"
Yes all round.

Chip Townsend. Martial Artist - I break stuff.
Yes all round.

Erin go Braughless. Professional Burlesque Dancer.
Chubby. Nicks says: It's gotta be jelly, 'cause jam don't shake like that.
Yes, all round. (She sat on Piers' lap. He said, "It's a Yes, baby".

Break - Segment #4

Taylor Matthews - 18yo - Wants to be a professional musician and win the show.
(very nervous. laughs a lot)
"Somewhere Over the Rainbow" like the uke version, then rocks it up a bit.
Crowd loved it. Standing O from them.
Sharon: Still nervous? "Shaking like a dog".
Howie: Loved it.
Sharon: I liked it because you're different. Odd in a way. But a GOOD odd.
Piers: Fantastic voice, cheesy grin. Loved the whole damn thing.
Yes all round.

Break - Segment #5

Ray Sanders - former band director. Playing a rare instrument. 62yo.
Playing a turkey baster. Like a slide whistle.
Buzzed off on the first song.

Nancy La Fancy.
Buzzed off. (Thank God!)

Jason Andrews - Magician.
Buzzed off.

Jason Dowd(?) - Singer.
Buzzed off.
(Says he does this on cruise ships. I need warned if I go on one he's on!)

Miss Donna - Twirls flaming Samoan knives. She's 1/2 blind.
Totally blind in the left eye.
Piers buzzed.
Sharonh buzzed.
Howie buzzed. (from under desk)
Piers: Every time I think we've seen everything on this show, we see someone like you.
Howie: For your safety, no.
Piers: because you're so unusual and dangerous, yes.
Sharon: Yes.
She's in.

Break - Segment #6

CJ Dippa - 11yo. Rapping for 8 years. Rapper/Dancer/Writes music.
Doing a song he wrote.
Broke up with last GF a week ago. Has a LD girlfriend.
Audience loved it. (He moonwalked a bit, too.)
Howie: You wrote it and performed it... Your parents told you you're white, right?
Piers: A small Eminem - "The difference between Eminem and me, is Eminem don't dance.
Piers: A Yo Yes.
Sharon: Yes.
Howie: You're going to Vegas.
(He raps backstage with Nick beatboxing for him.)

And, that's it.

See ya next Tuesday and Wednesday!
In New York.

America's Got Talent (AGT) (2010) - June 1, 2010 - Auditions

It's been a while... But now, America's Got Talent is back, and so am I. ;-)

AGT - 06/01/2010

Segment one introduces everyone

Everyone is back, again, but David Hasselhoff.
Judges are Pierce Morgan, Sharon Osborne, and now Howie Mandel.
Host is Nick Cannon

We're starting in LA, tonight.

We start out with Future Funk. A couple of very young dancing kids - 9yo and 5yo. Not bad - fun. Pretty good break dancing.
Howie - My first WOW moment on this show. You're funny, talented, and I couldn't stop smiling.
Piers - You do have a lot of talent.
Sharon - Your name fits, because you ARE the future.
Yes, all round.

Break - Segment #2:

Howie hits the buzzer just
Ranses Valent(?) - Singer. From Brazil. Sings in falsetto. "Dust in the Wind" (orig by Kansas)
Buzzed off. (Thank God!)
Piers - Distinctive voice. Not sure you could advance.
Howie hits the buzzer accidentally while piers is

Timur and the Time Museum. Another falsetto singer.
Buzzed off.
Tells Howie they are showing the current economy.
Howie asks, "And how IS it?"
They answer, "It's Bad"
Howie spreads his hands to include the group.

Dare to Flair - Jugglers (Flair bartenders)
Dropped a number of things.
Buzzed.
Piers told them if they dropped anything, he'd buzz them.
Howie reiterated that, and said, if you drop seven things, I buzz you.

Missed the name of the group.
Piers buzzed.
Howie said he'd hire them for a party, but not for the singing, for the comedy.
No from Piers and Sharon. Howie said he said Yes, just because it didn't matter.

Chansaw Project - Chainsaws on Ice. Three girls in Daisy Dukes.
Chainsaw broke.
Buzzed off. They wanted to put it together so we could see what it was going to be.
Howie said he thought it would be better if they left it the way it was and we guessed.
As they left, he said, "Daisy Dukes... Just THAT much too long"

Break - Segment #3

Swingshift Sideshow - Strange makeup. Traditional Sideshow brought current.
Staples a picture of an eye to face and breast.
One Sword swallower, lights sword, and the first spits fire over the sword handle.
One has a pierced nose septum. Put a curlycue drill through it, and had another through somewhere else on his face
The first chews glass. The second pierces cheek with a skewer.
The guy swallows 3 swords and the first pulls them out.
Howie - Amazing. Wow.
Piers - You three are the three most disgusting things I've seen in my life. But
Howie - Yes. Sharon - No. Piers - Yes. (You all make me sick, and you're through to the next round)
Howie - Like Three's Company on acid. (Said they have a whole choreographed thing with a tango. Howie wants to see that.)

Break - Segment #4

26yo Dancers - Ring Masters - Nugget (dance name) Aday. From Brooklyn.
Both are double-jointed. Grossness, twisting arms, etc.
Piers buzzed.
Howie - Howie wanted to see things he's never seen before. "I think you just did that."
Sharon - Enjoyed it, very much.
Piers - You guys are very good dancers, but it went wrong when you started doing all the twisting.
Howie - Don't listen to him. This is when I was sitting on my couch at home, and I'd say "SHUT UP" (Sharon hugs him)
Howie - Yes. Piers - No. Sharon - Yes.

Dance Company - to bring Bollywood to Hollywood.
They're in.

Mas - Male Belly Dancer.
He's in.

Kung Fu Heroes.
Break sticks on each other, dance with swords, etc.
Piers - Bloody terrifying. Yes.
Sharon - Yes, Howie - yes.

Break - Segment #5

Haspop - From France. Here for Dancing (miming acting and dancing). No training. Loves to dance. Has two kids in France. Street Dancer.
Strange, but strangely good.
Audience likes him. Standing O.
Piers - Well, I have never seen anything like that in my life.
Sharon - I wanted it to go on and on. Amazing... Fantastic.
Howie - You've been doing this in the street? Phenominal - You deserve to do this indoors.

Break - Segment #6 - Day 2 at the LA Auditions

Maricar - Woman in black leather and catwoman mask. carrying a whip. Paints with the whip.
Paints to "Dontcha" by the Pussycat dolls. Almost strip-dancing. Paits on two transparencies and black background.
Puts them together, and it's her.
Sharon - stunning. I have to tell you. This is the quietest I've heard these two all day.
She's through.

Evan Berst - 72yo Shoe-leather salesman. Modesto, CA.
Dancing. Started at 9yo. married 50 years. Wife accuses him of being a showoff.
Dances to James Brown - Get Up Offa That Thing.
Piers buzzed.
Sharon - How old?
Howie - I think it's wonderful. But I don't understand how it would blow up into an act.
Piers - Great watching you, but I have to say no.
Howie - No
Sharon - No.
Nick comes out. And dances with him. (Needs partner) Nope... Sorry.

Break - Segment #7

kevin something - lasso or whip, couldn't see.
Buzzed off.

Hannibal Means - Play piano and Singer
Last verse of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah"
Piers buzzed. (A bit over the top.)
Audience liked it. Standing O.
Taught singing.
Piers - Singing wasn't too bad. it was my problem with the way you were murdering that keyboard.
Howie - Is it me, or does he look animatronic? I want to see more. Yes.
Piers - No.
Sharon - Yes.

QUICKIES

Chear SF - Adult Chearleading team
They're in. (Pretty good)

Danyavaad and the Shimmy Sisters - Play instruments and dance.
They're in.

Lipari and (missed)
Acrobatics on sling.
They're in.

Break - Segment #8

Dead Off Center - Teen band
They're in.

(George) Ronith - Actor from India - Impersonator - Trying to make it in Hollywood
Marlon Brando - Funny, not good.
Clint Eastwood - Same voice almost but with a hat.
Sean Connery - Funny
Arnold Schwartzenegger - Voices are almost all the same. Could BARELY understand the "I will be back"
(tag lines, facial expressions, and props)
Piers buzzed.
Piers - Thank you very much. I've never been more pleased that someone would tell us who they were, because it would be difficult to tell...
Sharon - Very good.
Piers - What a load of absolute twaddle. No.
Howie - I would expand it to 100 voices, all the same.
Piers - Deal or no Deal - Howie - Deal
Sharon - Yes.
OMG - He's in. (Hope he realizes it's because it was funny, not good!)

Break - Segment #9

New Directions Veteran's Choir - Singing group - A Choir from New Directions - Formerly homeless military veterans.
First guy homeless for 12 years in MacArthur's Park. Another guy, homelss for 25 years.
Hope to achieve - Let people know, it's ok for a warrior to seek help.
Proof that they have longer auditions than we normally see. At least 2 minutes if not more.
Standing Ovation - Judges and crowd.
Sharon - Wow. Yes we do love you vereran's very much. More than that, you're great singers.
Howie - You're inspirational.
Piers - What did it mean to you. "There were times when you didn't want to see us coming. This shows that people can change.")
Piers - Inspirational.
Yes, all round.
And another standing O from the audience.

Break - Segment #10

No Shade - Sing, Dance, Tumble...
Look like two guys.
Piers buzzed early.
Howie buzzed later.
Audience wants the "X".
Sharon - What went wrong, or where did you leave your voices.
Howie - You said you'd do something we've never seen before.
Piers - You're like a couple of wounded animals.
No all round. (WHEW!)

Noteworthy (group)
Piers buzzed. And it's no all round.

Christopher and the Crystoppers.
Skate dancing and singing.
No.

Jilla
Piers - I saw a rather silly costume waving fire above you.
No. (THANK GOD!)

Break - Segment #11

Michael Grimm - 30yo - Plays music anywhere he can - Restaurants and bars. From Mississippi. (Guitar and sing)
Grandma stopped the kids from being taken by the state. What little money he makes goes to them.
Grandparents raised him, and lost everything in Katrina.
Singing "You Don't Know Me"
Piers - I think that your grandparents were right to back you. You have a lot of talent.
Howie - I'm in agreement. You have a LOT of talent. If we bring you back, I want you to step it up. Don't just sit on a stool and play and sing.
Yes all round. (Great)

That's it for tonight.

See you tomorrow... Auditions from Dallas.

(Sorry about the line-breaks, above. I write this in Notepad, then copy/paste it here. I forgot about the wrapping. I will do better next time! BigDaddyBS ;-) )

America's Got Talent - 2009 (09/14/2009) (W13N2)

THE FINALS RESULTS SHOW, tonight. (Week 13, Night 2)

The Top 10 Acts: The Texas Tenors, Grandma Lee, Kevin Skinner, The Voices of Glory, The Fab Five, Recycled Percussion, Lawrence Beaman, Hairo Torres, Drew Stevyns, and Barbara Padilla. Here are their bios (from NBC's AGT site)

[Links on the act names, below, are to their video from the finals show. Click their names to be taken to NBC and see the videos.]

Montage of the Finals show and the acts.

The show begins.

Also tonight: Leona Lewis, Rascal Flatts, Shakira, and Susan Boyle.

Introduction of the judges.
Piers: I normally work out 1 or 2 acts I think will win. Tonight, they are so good, I can't do that.
Sharon: I hate that now, after tonight, it's over, but I can't wait to see who America will vote for.
David: I'm just very excited tonight, because we've had a long journey for all the acts.

Song: Thelma Houston's "Don't Leave Me That Way" - The Top 10 Finalists start it out, and Thelma comes onstage. Acts join her in the song. Nice. Cool way to bring the acts on!

Break

Introducation video of Leona Lewis. She performs "Happy"

Break

Montage to "Simply The Best" of the Auditions. Many of those who were "X"ed off.
"The Audition All-Stars" live to "Ain't No Stoppin' Us Now". Again, many from the montage.
Scary to think that this is probably part of the Vegas show!
Ends with Granda Lee and Piers in a magician's "box" behind a curtain, she in a wedding dress, and Piers "caught" making out with her. LOL

Break

Cirque de Soliel performs "Banana Shpeel".
[This show does strange things to you! For example, I, immediately, thought that if they were being judged by the judges, they'd have been buzzed before the act got rolling! LOL]

Acts in the Orville Lounge - After Monday's Show.

Break

Another montage of Acts - Many of the most memorable acts and the Top 10, and a few of those "x"ed. "The highs and the lows".

The Top 10 are onstage. After the break, the Top 5 will be revealed.

Break

Step forward: Hairo Torres and Barbara Padilla
The act taking the first spot in the top 5 is ... Barbara Padilla

Step forward: Lawrence Beaman and The Voices of Glory
The act taking the next spot in the top 5 is ... The Voices of Glory

Step forward: The Texas Tenors and The Fab Five
The act taking the next spot in the top 5 is ... The Texas Tenors

Step forward: Kevin Skinner and Drew Stevyns
The act taking the next spot in the top 5 is ... Kevin Skinner (OMG!)

Step forward: Recycled Percussion and Grandma Lee
The act taking the final spot in the top 5 is ... Recycled Percussion

Piers: It's amazing to see the acts still here, but it's also amazing to see the acts that are gone. Three or four could easily have been in the top 5. So, I would say this is officially the best season we've ever had.

Break

Montage of the judges backstage, onstage, etc. having fun and getting laughs.

Shakira performs "SheWolf"

Break

Top 5: The Voices of Glory, Kevin Skinner, Barbara Padilla, The Texas Tenors, Recycled Percussion

The act finishing in fifth place and leaving the competition is ... The Voices of Glory
Sharon: This is just the beginning for you. We are gonna see a whole lot more of you guys. You aren't going anywhere. And I love you. (Montage of VoG throughout the show.)

The act finishing in fourth place and leaving the competition is ... The Texas Tenors (Wow!)
(Montage of TT throughout the show.)
David: Congratulations and just let me buy a ticket to your show. You guys are fantastic. This is only the beginning... Only the beginning.

The act finishing in third place and leaving the competition is ... Recycled Percussion (OMG!)
(Montage of RP throughout the show.)

Leaving Kevin Skinner and Barbara Padilla, about as opposite of a pair as there could be.
Piers: I think I think what everybody thinks. You have two completely opposite acts - The country boy and the opera singer - the chicken farmer and the woman who beat cancer. I can't call it.

(Unbelievable!)

Break

Rascal Flatts perform "Summer Nights"

Montage of Kevin Skinner's journey to the Top 2.
Montage of Barbara Padillia's journey to the Top 2.

Break

Montage of Susan Boyle's journey, and she performs her version of The Rolling Stones' "Wild Horses", singing in America for the first time. (From her debut album, "I Dreamed a Dream".

Break

Again, Kevin Skinner and Barbara Padilla.

America has voted. The winner of the $1,000,000 and the headline show in Las Vegas is ... KEVIN SKINNER! (OMG! YAY for him! WOW!)
Kevin: I'm ready to perform. I'm gonna go out there and give them the best performance I can. I love you all!

(Barbara has a full career ahead of her! She's going to go a VERY long way, as should ALL the acts in the top 10 and more.)

Full-Length Video from tonight's show

Full Season Four episodes
Newest videos (where tonight's acts' will appear, and the start of the video library for AGT)
Top-rated videos (watched most often, I'm sure)
If you're interested only in knowing what the music done on the show was, it's here.

America's Got Talent - 2009 (09/14/2009) (W13N1)

THE FINALS, tonight. (Week 13, Night 1)

The Top 10 Acts: The Texas Tenors, Grandma Lee, Kevin Skinner, The Voices of Glory, The Fab Five, Recycled Percussion, Lawrence Beaman, Hairo Torres, Drew Stevyns, and Barbara Padilla. Here are their bios (from NBC's AGT site)

[Links on the act names, below, are to their video from the semi-finals shows. Click their names to be taken to NBC and see the videos.]

The show starts.

Montage of the top 10 acts, and some of what the judges said about them (good stuff).

Nick Cannon (host) comes out, explains a bit, tells us about the finals (Wednesday at 8PM, the results show. A number of stars, and Susan Boyle will perform, then), and introduces the judges (Piers Morgan, Sharon Osborne, and David Hasselhoff).

Piers: I don't think there's a clear favorite. This is the biggest talent show in the world. All I said to them is this, "You all have a one-in-ten shot at it."

Sharon: Just think about that million dollars. It can make me funnier, dance better, whatever.

David: When you're headlining in LV, that means that people are paying to see you, and you're there to MAKE money, not LOSE money.

The finalists all come on-stage, being introduced to the live audience.

Break

Voices of Glory
Song: Whitney Houston's "The Greatest Love of All"
Beautiful! They are great. All judges standing.
Piers: I've waited the whole time with you three for it to click, and you to get it right. Then tonight, out comes your little Diva, then you boys come in. Tonight, you may well give your mom a check for a $1,000,000. It's that good.
Sharon: Perfectly in synch and you delivered.
David: You not only brought your mom out of a coma, you brought Piers out of a coma. Fantastic. Out of the park... You hit it out of the park.

Break

Hairo Torres
Sing: Taco's(?) "Puttin' on the Ritz" / Neyo's "Closer"
Nice. He emoted very well. As a solo in a Vegas act, it would work well.
Sharon: You took a really big risk, and you gave a very emotional performance. And I think you did the right thing. Very emotional and I loved your music choice.
David: I loved the way you started out, then you went into ... oh no... but if you do a Vegas act, you need to bring it back and tie it all together.
Piers: I love you as a person, but I've got to be honest, here. I don't think it worked. Once we saw you in a group with other performers, it was fun. Being alone on stage, though, I don't think it worked.

Break

Lawrence Beaman
Song: Barry White's "My First My Last My Everything"
Personally, I think he's got technique, but he's not as emotional as other acts. Good, but...
David: And now you're leaving us a star. Whether you win or not, you will be playing all over the world.
Piers: That is why I wanted you to sing Barry White. Having said that, it's not quite there, yet. When you went toward the women, Barry would have scooped them up. You looked a bit like a deer in the headlights. We need a bit more love.
Sharon: How did you feel? I thought it was very comfortable - probably the most comfortable I've seen you on stage - very relaxed, very comfortable performance that you gave up there.

Break

Barbara Padilla
Song: "O Mio Vino Caro" from IL CRITTICO
Beautiful. She IS a star. Judges and audience standing ovation.
Piers: Millions of Armeican's are looking at you and thinking she's one of us.
Sharon: You look like a billion dollars, and sound like three billion dollars. How far you've come in such a short time. And just think what you will be like a year from now, even better.
David: Like looking at Audrey Hepburn, you're so beautiful. Forget Vegas. You have bigger stages to play.

Break

Fab Five
(stepping out of their comfort-zone for the finals, doing moves they haven't done since they were kids)
Song: Britney Spears' "Circus"
Some in audience standing ovation.
Sharon: I tell you ladies, that was beautifully choreographered. The whole stage... You ladies belong in Vegas. It's going to be so hard on the voter.
David: Do you girls ever stop smiling. But you know what? I can't stop smiling when I watch you.
Piers: What is extraordinary, is you've been dancing with each other for over 20 years, and you're still friends. I think what we're seeing is an act that's put more hours into practicing than any other act, tonight.

Break

The Texas Tenors
Song: "My Way"
Wow. That was fantastic. Standing O by everyone.
David: Man you guys got a lotta guts, coming out and doing a Frank Sinatra song. And I LOVED it. You coulda gone any way, cheesy, like you've done before. You could have gone country, but you did it YOUR way.
Piers: What do you mean cheesy? That was the most cheesy thing I've seen. I could feel the mozerlla seeping off the stage. I was walking down Malibu and started singing Unchained Melody, and it was YOUR version. Here's the thing, you're cheesy at times. Las Vegas is cheesy at times. You guys have become my guilty pleasure.
Sharon: Tonight it was triple cheese. You've vocals were right on, your harmonies were right on, and as I said before, I love cheese, and I love you guys.

Break

Drew Stevyns
The dark horse. He came back as a Wild-Card.
Song: The Pretenders' "I'll Stand By You"
Great. That was fantastic. I think he has a very "Rob Thomas" voice.
Piers: Watching that I just felt very proud of the show tonight. All the acts are performing out of their skins. Every time I see you, I'm very embarrassed that we left you out of the top 40.
Sharon: If I was a manager and looking for a great rock singer, I would pick you. You check all the boxes, you're good-looking, you have a great voice, and ... your trousers could be tighter, though. LOL You are a dark horse. This is going to be very interesting.
David: Great job, man. Your best performance of the whole season, you have a great chance to win this whole thing. Great job.

Break

Grandma Lee
Carried out on a sedan, appearing pregnant. "Cut the Crap" (cuts the music). Says, "Well discuss this (her belly) later, Mr. Morgan."
Standing O.
Sharon: Your material tonight, the Ryan Seacrest joke, just got me. It's gonna be so hard to choose.
David: It's so hard to choose. Every time you come on here, you're funnier and funnier.
Piers: You shameless little hussy. First of all you cheat on me with The Hoff, then with Simon. I want a paternity test, 'cause if you win the million dollars, I want my slice of the pie.

Break

Kevin Skinner
Song: Aerosmith's "I Don't Want To Miss a Thing"
Piers stands, then the other judges. Good version. He's got a kind-of-a very early Randy Travis-type voice. VERY country.
David: You've been one of my favorites all along, because you ARE what this show is about.
Piers: Not perfect, you hit a few flat notes, but you are a rough diamond, You're unpolished. This time last year, you were catching chickens. What would be a better way, America coming out of this recession, but with YOU winning this competition.
Sharon: You DON'T have a the best voice, but neither did Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Mick Jagger, and (missed it), but they are all unique. YOU are unique. You don't NEED that "great voice". Wonderful.

Break

Recycled Percussion
Song: "Wipe Out"
They start on stage, then run to the top of a piece, and drum, then get into the piece, thunder sounds, two on top are playing (on guitar), and two inside in "rain". Water bouncing off the drums...
Cool. VERY Vegas. That was GREAT!
Piers: That was an absolutely brilliant way to end this show. I would put you in Vegas tomorrow.
Sharon: I have to hand it to you, you are all so creative. You belong in Vegas.
David: You guys are insane. You make me want to beat on things, and now I wanna take a shower, and put drums in the shower.

OH MAN! HELL of a choice. EVERY ONE of these acts are great in their own way. This is getting harder and harder each year.

Wife: Five on The Three Tenors, and Five on Recycled Percussion
Me: Five on The Three Tenors and Five on Recycled Percussion

I've said it before, and will again here, and again, next year, I'm sure. Every one of these people need to be doing their acts on stage somewhere, making their living doing it. That goes for many of those that DIDN'T make it THIS far, too.

That's it for tonight. See you Wednesday for the Results show.

Full-Length Video from tonight's show

Full Season Four episodes
Newest videos (where tonight's acts' will appear, and the start of the video library for AGT)
Top-rated videos (watched most often, I'm sure)
If you're interested only in knowing what the music done on the show was, it's here.

America's Got Talent - 2009 (09/09/2009) (W12N2)

Results from last night's semi-finals show. Because of the judge's voting on two last week, America gets votes all five acts through, tonight.

Tonight: (click their names to see their semi-finals act): Recycled Percussion, Lawrence Beaman, Erik & Rickie (couldn't find on NBC, so here's YouTube's version), Jeffrey Ou, Hairo Torres, The EriAm Sisters, Mario & Jenny, Drew Stevyns, FootworKINGz, Barbara Padilla. And a performance by the Jersey Boys.

Montage of last night's show. Introduction of the judges. Some words from the judges on last night's show. And introduction of the acts from last night.

Next Monday - FINALS

First up: FootworKINGz and Hairo Torres
The act going into the finals is ... Hairo Torres.
David and Sharon stood, clapping.
Piers: You have got a reward tonight for real dedication to giving us the real you, and someone who really really wants this, and I salute you.

Break

Last week the judge's pick, they decided to change the rules affecting tonight's show. It happened during a commercial break, and the camera's were rolling. They show a montage and the discussion about bending the rules.

Orville Lounge After Show montage.

Next up: Erik & Rickie and Jeffrey Ou

Break

Between Erik & Rickie and Jeffrey Ou
Both are out.
Sharon: What do you think about these results? They've done very well for getting this far. Each act has done very very well. But America has spoken.

Six acts remaining, four places left.

Next up: Mario & Jenny and Recycled Percussion.
The act going into the finals is ... Recycled Percussion.
David: Did America get it right? I want to say to Mario & Jenny, you're dream is to play Vegas, you'll get there.

Break (four acts, three spots)

Jersey Boys - Medley: "You're Just to Good to Be True" / "Walk a Man" / "Who Loves You Pretty Baby" (Nice)

Break

Next Up: Lawrence Beaman, Drew Stevyns, The EriAm Sisters, and Barbara Padilla
The act taking the fourth spot in the finals is ... Barbara Padilla
Piers: I watched back the performance you gave last night, and I think it was the single greatest vocal performance we've ever had on the show. Everyone now knows that you are the one to beat.

Two spots left.
The act taking the next spot in the finals is ... Lawrence Beaman
Sharon: I'm very happy that you're through to the final. And, you've already told us what you're going to sing, right? (He's been going back and forth.) Just be yourself.

Two acts left, only one can stay in the competition. It's crunch time, when we come back.

Break

Between Drew Stevyns and EriAm Sisters
The act going into the finals is ... Drew Stevyns
David: I think America made the right choice. You have originality and commercial appeal. You sang from your heart and went for it.

And now, the 10 finalists are: The Texas Tenors, Grandma Lee, Kevin Skinner, The Voices of Glory, The Fab Five, Recycled Percussion, Lawrence Beaman, Hairo Torres, Drew Stevyns, and Barbara Padilla. They will also have many surprise guests.

That's it! See you next Monday.

Full Show Video from tonight's show

Full Season Four episodes
Newest videos (where tonight's acts' fates will appear, and the start of the video library for AGT)
Top-rated videos (watched most often, I'm sure)
If you're interested only in the music done on the show, it's here.

America's Got Talent - 2009 (09/08/2009) (W12N1)

Week 12, Night 1. Second Semi-Finals Show. 10 Acts, Live from Hollywood. Acts have one minute and 45 seconds (1:45). No judge's pick this week. So, apparently, they're assuming the judges picked their two last week. Therefore, this week, it will be the top 5, voted on by America.

Tonight: Jeffrey Ou, Lawrence Beaman, Mario & Jenny, Hairo Torres, FootworKINGz, Drew Stevyns, The Eriam Sisters, Recycled Percussion, Barbara Padilla, and Erik & Rickie.

Again, the first episode is introducing the judges and the acts. The judges talk about their decision last week, and about the acts in general.

Break

Recycled Percussion (from week 10)
(Tonight they're playing things they've never played.)
Song: "Highway Star". Beating on a van, guys playing on top. The top lifts up, and two guys on drums underneath. WOW. They are Vegas!
Piers: There were moments in that where I couldn't work out if you were incredibly talented or a bit crazy. Showmanship and entertainment. You provide it all. Sharon: Piers is right, as usual. He did leave out that you are very ripped. And your act was great, too. David: I think what she's saying is you have just the right amount of grease. You keep coming back and back and back with more. You have one more shot. (I liked last time's better, but it was very cool and entertaining. And, as I said, VERY Vegas.)

Break

Lawrence Beaman (from week 9)
Song: "I Keep on Falling In and Out of Love with You"
Sharon: Lawrence. Nice to hear you sing something contemporary. Beautiful voice, but I could have done without the vocal acrobats. You've got it, you're a very special guy. You don't need to do the warbling. David: I liked your choice. Tonight you went out on a limb, because that's a very hard song to sing. Piers: I love you, I think you're a fantastic guy to have on the show. I didn't like the performance. I like you singing the old stuff. I still see you as Barry White. Seeing you as Alicia Keyes is confusion. (Said he'd do the Lord's Prayer, classical style, in the finals if he makes it through. I DO think the warbling didn't do it for me, and again, I didn't think he "emoted" as well. That will come in time, but he's got to make it through. I think I'd LOVE to hear him do the Lord's Prayer. We'll see.)

Break

Erik & Rickie (from week 10)
They come out doing MJ's Black & White, stepping out of "toy boxes" like dolls. Piers buzzed. Not really ballroom song, but
David: I mean first their was Donnie and Marie, now there's Erik and Rickie. Who cares who says you can't play Vegas, I think you can. The show will have to be at 4 in the afternoon... Piers: You know I like you guys, so it's not personal. Putting that type of music to the way you dance I don't think works. It's like eating fries and custard. Sharon: There was not one thing I could fault. I loved the music, the set, and think you guys are fantastic. (Cute... I don't know. We'll see how the other acts do.)

Break

Jeffery Ou (from week 9 - remember there was a failure in the sound halfway through.)
(His keyboard is connected to the lighting system. I don't like classical songs that sound "wrong", and this was one of them.) Piers buzzed.
Piers: I think I'm gonna have to name you Oh Jeffery after that. It's like someone plugged Mozart into an electic socket. It was all over the place. I don't think you hit a note. Sharon: The playing was pretty out there. It sounded like the old movies. David: Did you hit all the right notes? I don't know Hungarian Rhapsody. I think I expected birds to come out of your hair. (He looked like Mozart. He may have hit all the notes right, but who could tell, but a conductor. I'm sure he did, but I think he made a wrong song-choice, if HE made it. Wonder if the producers had anything to do with the choice. If so, then they ARE stacking the deck.)

Break

Hairo Torres (from week 9)
(He hurt his back landing in practice. We'll see how he does.)
Song: Black-Eyed Peas "Tonight's Gonna be a Good Night"
Audience gives a standing ovation. Sharon: You added a lot more new steps that I've never seen before. I like that. I hope that America votes for you and brings you back. David: Hairo, you're like the perfect date for the Prom. I was watching you and the guy next to me was laughing. And it was because you are entertaining. Piers: I was wondering why I liked you. It's because you dance exactly like I do. (haha). You make us laugh. You entertain us. (He's a great street/break dancer. He MIGHT make it to the next round, but I don't see him winning.)

Break

The EriAm Sisters (from week 10)
{They had a couple of songs to choose from. They had some issues over the choice, but finally have chosen.)
Song: "When You Believe"(?)
Piers: I thought it was a shaky start, you were a little flat in the first part of the song. We have to remember it is a big moment in your lives. I gave you a little latitude to see what would happen next. What happened next is you got your confidence, and it became a very good performance. Sharon: You have to be careful in your arrangements. You all tried to do lead, and when you came together, it was great. David: It was a little shaky in the beginning, and was great at the end. (They harmonize wonderfully, but when soloing, may be a little flat. That will change with more practice. It may not have been the right song choice. They ARE good. But good enough?)

Break

Mario & Jenny (from week 9)
(He's from seven generations of circus performers. His grandfather was born a gypsy. She was told she was wrong for dancing - too tall, not right.)
Song: Marilyn Manson "Beautiful )People"
Piers buzzed. (Mario danced, played drums, then set the bass drum on fire, and balanced it.
Piers: Didn't work for me at all. I think you blew it. What I got tonight was that Mario could skip, dance (not very well), play the drums (not very well). Sharon: For me it shows you are not one-dimensional. The only thing we've never seen you do is sing. You're very diverse. David: I liked it very much, a German, Techno-weird-type show. I think you guys are ready for Vegas. I hope America votes you through. (I understand they were showing their diversity. The problem I see with that is that you get voted on or off the show, by many, for that ONE act - People don't include the "whole show" when they vote. We'll see. They're good.)

Break

Drew Stevyns (from week 10)
Song: Wham! "Wasted Chances" (a rocking version)
Sharon: So far this contest has been like a roller-coaster ride for you. Tonight's song choice, you chose to sing it lower range, and you did make it your own. I didn't like the song, but I like you. David: I admire you for going for it. Dokken is one of my favorite groups, and that's the feeling I got from that. I'm not sure you hit it in the beginning, but congratulations for going for it. Piers: That was a massive gamble to do that song that way. I think it paid off.
(I liked the version of the song. But I'm not sure if he should be the one singing it that way. It's only him and his guitar on stage. I think I'd prefer hearing him do more of a Croce-type song.)

Break

FootworKINGz (from week 9)
{Going to try to dance at 188 beats per minute, tonight.)
Song: Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (rock version?)
Piers buzzed. Sharon buzzed.
David: Ok. You came a long way from the streets. I don't need the lasers. I just want to see you guys dance. When you do all the other stuff, it just gets in the way. Piers: I thought that was career suicide. You guys were the coolest guys I've seen in years. And now you're the uncoolest. Sharon: My problem is that you do the same dance moves in different costumes. You've got to quit doing that Russian Cossack move, we've seen it. But I liked it. How's that?

Break

Barbara Padilla (only video I could find on NBC. I believe she would be on Week 9's full video. CLICK HERE for the YouTube version.)
Song: "Ave Maria" (Standing ovation, including the judges)
Piers: Wow. Wow wow wow. Not many things leave me speechless. That just did. The whole of America is going to remember where they were when they heard you sing that song. Because tonight, a superstar was born on this show. Sharon: It doesn't matter what genre of music you like on this show. Music trancends. David: You know they say that God has a plan for all of us. God certainly has a plan for you. He gave you the tenacity to beat cancer, and put you here to heal people.

That's it for tonight.

If the producers are making song or dance selections, then they ARE "stacking the deck". Jeffery Ou's performance was good, but again, who knew if he hit the right notes but professional conductors and pianists. Of course, they say that the acts have the final say, but we know what that means elsewhere - young actresses losing weight when they are F.I.N.E. fine, people fired because they "had the final say", etc. I hope that's not happening here, though from others I've seen, and heard, who knows?

Wife: Recycled Percussion, Erik & Rickie, Hairo Torres, The EriAm Sisters, Barbara Padilla
Me: Recycled Percussion, Lawrence Beaman, Hairo Torres, Drew Stevyns, Barbara Padilla

Full Show Video

See you tomorrow for the results show. ;-)

America's Got Talent - 2009 (09/02/2009) (W11N2)

Results from last night's semi-finals show. Three acts voted on by us, and forth & fifth place by

America's vote, voted on by the judges.

The acts (click their names to see their semi-finals act): Acrodunk, Arcadian Broad, Drew Thomas Magic, Paradizo Dance, Grandma Lee, Fab Five, Kevin Skinner, Tony Hoard & Rory, The Texas Tenors, and Voices of Glory.

See my prior blog for more links, info, and each act's performance that brought them to the semi-final.

First up: Arcadian Broad, Texas Tenors, Drew Thomas Magic
Only one is going through to the final.
The next act to go home is ... Drew Thomas Magic
The act going into the final is ... The Texas Tenors
David: America made the right choice. I see you three cowboys in Vegas. I wanna say goodbye to

Arcadian. It's not the end for him, and the same to Drew Thomas.

Break

The Muppets, Kermit and Miss Piggy do "Don't Go Breakin' My Heart".

All the acts in the Orville Lounge after last night's show.

Break

Next up: Grandma Lee, Tony Hoard & Rory, Paradizo Dance
The next act to go home is ... Paradizo Dance (ARE YOU KIDDING ME!)
The next act to go trough to the final is ... Grandma Lee. (WOW!)
David and Sharon are standing. Piers: I think it was all down to the Union Jack shorts. I think you are a special lady, especially with all we know about you, now. You're very funny. And why can't it be you?

[Well that screwed up our votes! Only ONE of our votes are left for two spots. THIS is gonna be interesting.]

Break

David Hasselhoff performs. "I'm Feelin' Good".

Break

Next up: (the rest of the acts) Kevin Skinner, Acrodunk, The Voices of Glory, and The Fab Five
The act taking the third spot in the final is ... Kevin Skinner. [COOL!]
One spot left in the final. Three acts left.
The next act to go home is ... Acrodunk
Sharon: I always get so emotional at this time in the show. You get so attached to everyone. It's bittersweet.

Now, among The Fab Five and Voices of Glory. The judges will decide. When we come back.

Break

Judge's Choice:
Sharon: All I have to say is Voices of Glory, you know I have a soft spot for you. They are nearly there. They've contributed so much to this show. Fab Five are all beautiful women, great dancers. I can't choose. David: (to the acts) Don't look at me like that... and don't look at me like that. You're so young... And you are so right for this competition... I can't... Piers: We were in three minutes of discussion during the break. We either send them both through, or we send them both home. We've decided that there will be no judge's pick. We're gonna throw out the rules. We're gonna send you both through. (Interesting. Wonder if they'll do that next week, too? ;-) )

That's it for this week. See you next week.

Here's the full results show video.

America's Got Talent - 2009 (09/01/2009) (W11N1)

Week 11, Night 1. First Semi-Finals show. 10 acts tonight. Live from Hollywood. Three will be voted through by us, one will be chosen by the judges. Acts have one minute and 45 seconds (1:45) to wow everyone.

Tonight: Acrodunk, Arcadian Broad, Drew Thomas Magic, Paradizo Dance, Grandma Lee, Fab Five, Kevin Skinner, Tony Hoard & Rory, The Texas Tenors, and the Voices of Glory.

First section is introducing all the judges, all the acts. The judges talk about what they will be looking for, the acts talk about who they think has a good act and what they need to do.

Break

[In the following, click the act names, and see their performance from the semi-finals]

Acrodunk (from Week 7)
(They end with two flying through a burning hoop, shooting at a burning basket and make it)
Standing ovation from the judges. Piers: That has to be one of the most thrilling, entertaining, dangerous thing I've seen on the show. Brilliant. Sharon: You make the Harlem Globetrotters look like ... forget about it. David: You came to play. You started off so cool, got a little shaky, then you just nailed it. (Some are hurt, but they did a great job.)

Break

The Texas Tenors (from Week 8)
Singing "Unchained Melody" (2nd tenor sings in Spanish, then back to English)
Sharon: That was fantastic. And the eye contact was electric. You guys nailed it, so professional. David: I can see that billboard in Las Vegas with the Texas Tenors, right now. You are the front-runners. Piers: I say be less cheesy, you come back with the cheesiest pop song in history, and sing it in the cheesiest way, and you think you know more than me about music? (they start to make a point, and Piers interrupts). Let me stop you right there. You think that... And you'd be right. That was brilliant. (EXCELLENT. They did wonderfully, mixing pop with opera, and it worked well. My wife says they could easily make it in Nashville.)

Break

Paradizo Dance (from Week 8)
(He burned his hand, and HOPES he'll be able to lift her)
Song: "I'm a Believer"
(starts with her standing on his head, and goes from there. Some fantastic lifts in there.)
Sharon: How is your hand. I don't know how you did some of those things. It's nice to see you do something more light-hearted. I prefer the romantic, but I liked you getting out of your comfort-zone. David: You are so talented, I hope America votes you back. Piers: It's very hard to follow the previous acts. I want to see you lifting him, which was what was so surprising in the first show. If you come back, I want to see more of you lifting him. (I thought they were great. He does some lifts that are damn-near impossible for anyone else. And tonight he did it with a burnt hand! Yes, her lifting him is surprising and fun, but still... I think they SHOULD go through.)

Break

Drew Thomas Magic (from Week 7)
(Built their own props on a shoestring budget, and they have the scars to prove it.)
Piers buzzed 1/2-way through. Piers: I like you Drew, but I hate this... I thought it was... I thought the music was ridiculously slow, the pace was slow... I think the only disappearing act will be you. Sharon: You were fabulous. I am still trying to figure out where the assistants are. David: You know what, I applaud you using your daughter. And in Vegas, it's nice to have the heartwarming stories. I loved it. (Piers made his daughter cry. BOOO to Piers. Yeah, it was slow, but it told a story, which many acts don't. I like him.)

Break

Tony Hoard & Rory (from Week 8)
(Sharon got grief for putting them through. Tony & Rory are now celebrities in New Castle. Biggest sacrifice Tony had to do: Quit his job of 24 years in a factory. He did to do the show.)
Song: "Let's Get it Started". Sharon: Well, Rory delivered, tonight, he was spot on, and your outfits are terrific. This guy laid you off because you wanted to do this show? (yes). I thought you were fantastic. David: Can Rory wear that outfit to the park? (He has all kinds of outfits.) Good job. Piers: Well, as you can see, I didn't buzz you. The reality is that the dog went back to what he did in the audition, and that's not drop any Frizbees. (They're great. I hope they get through.)

Break

The Voices of Glory (from Week 8)
Song: "Any Time You Need a Friend" or "Love Will Make It All Right"
David: You know, you guys could bring the world together. You're so sweet, so honest. Amd that's what music is all about. Piers: I really like what you stand for. More importantly, you've got talent. You guys have to remember, she's the Diva. Reminds me of when Janet Jackson first showed what she could do. You guys have to back up and let her sing. Sharon: I'm not going to say anything about your voices, your talent, your ... I'll just say that I'll see you in the finals. (They are good, but Piers is right. SHE is the BIG talent in the group, and the boys singing even the short solos here were not as strong as as she was. SHE is the star. The boys are good, especially with her, but... I hope they make it.)

Break

The Fab Five (from Week 8)
Piers: I think we often forget this kind of act, just how difficult it is. I'd like to see a different pace. Maybe slow it down, etc. Can you get through with the standard that's been set? Sharon: I like the way you keep coming back with the energy. Your footwork is very fast. Very Vegas, darlings, it really is. David: Every time I see you, I ask what are they going to do this time. You are great. (Wow... That was fun! They are great. This is gonna be TOUGH to chose, tonight.)

Break

Grandma Lee (from Week 7)
(Stands behind a couple of Chippendales Dancers, pushes them out of the way, and says, "Cut the crap" to start her act.)(Standing ovation from crowd.)
Sharon: Grandma lee, you know I love you because you're naughty, dirty, all the things I like. You're 75 years old, and you've still got it. David: I was so touched by your story, it was so heart-felt. I don't care how old you are, you're funny! Piers: I loved the new material, I loved what you said about your husband in the video, and I think if he were here, he'd be really proud. You deserve it. (Her stuff IS funny. She's great, but there are just too many other good acts, though. I don't think she'll get through. I hope she gets a good job from this show.)

Break

Arcadian Broad (from Week 7)
(He's brought a partner in, tonight. He knows it's a risk.)
David: I loved your presentation. Great job. Piers: No doubt you're a very talented young man. I asked myself if you are good enough to get to the finals, with the acts we've seen tonight. And the answer to that question is no you're not. On the basis of tonight's performances, I don't think you're good enough. Sharon: Every time you come back, you show us a different side of yourself. (He tried to say that the producers suggested he do High School Musical - that it wasn't really his choice. Nick then said that acts have the final say on what they do. He was good. And, if the producers decided what he did - How many kids his age can argue well with grown men? - it's too bad. Too many other acts were great. He should be back, next year, though, I hope. He'll be a year old, more confident, etc.)

Break

Kevin Skinner (from Week 7)
(Singing his father's favorite song. His father is too ill to travel, but he'll be watching.)
Song: "You Were Always on My Mind". He was a little flat in parts. Piers stood for him! Piers: That's the whole thing about you, Kevin. You have tears in your eyes, and I almost had them in mine. You are my favorite to win this competition. Sharon: Love to see you smile. Again, you nailed the song. You've got that kinda Johnny Cash downer thing going for you. I love it. David: You have come so far, man, from walking out here with your hat one backwards. You've come a long way from that porch.

Wife: Texas Tenors, Paridizo Dance, Tony Hoard & Rory, Kevin Skinner
Me: Texas Tenors, Paridizo Dance, Tony Hoard & Rory, Kevin Skinner

The Muppets will be here tomorrow, and an exclusive show by David Hasselhoff.

That's it. See you tomorrow.

And, once again I will say that every one of these acts, and some from before, should be performing, and making a decent living at what they do, even if they don't get through. If any talent scouts are watching, they should go to the videos, below, especially the full shows, and see everyone.

Full Show Video from tonight's show

Full Season Four episodes
Newest videos (where tonight's individual acts will appear, and the start of the video library for AGT)
Top-rated videos (watched most often, I'm sure)
If you're interested only in the music done on the show it's here

The act that wins will headline 10 shows (I believe), at least the first hosted by Jerry Springer. The show starts October 7th at The Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. (I believe this is what the winner wins, besides the $1M. They will be THE headliner for the show, and other acts from the show will be involved.)

America's Got Talent - 2009 (08/26/2009)

Last quarterfinals results show between: Ishaara, Coney Island Chris, Matt & Anthony, Pam Martin's Top Dogs, African High Fliers, Erik and Rickie, The Eriam Sisters, Mia Boostrom, Recycled Percussion, Barbara Padilla, and the Wildcards: Drew Stevyns and the Lollipop Girls. Also, a performance by Reba McIntyre.

This was a hard group to choose from. Every one of them (well, with the exception of one or two) were great.

First up: The Eriam Sisters & Drew Stevyns.
Next act going through: Drew Stevyns... SO ARE THE Eriam Sisters.
They paused so long between telling the sisters they were going through, even Piers thought it was mean. Nick said it wasn't him... He just did what the card said. Piers said the girls sang great, and they need to do more of that. He congratulated Drew, telling him he was hungry this time, but he's gotta keep that hunger going next time.

[Only three spots left, now. I can think of two. We'll see if I'm right.]

Break

They showed the acts showing up, practicing, playing on the set, makeup, costumes, etc.

Next up: African High Fliers, Pam Martin's Top Dogs, Coney Island Chris
America has voted, and you all are out. [I had the feeling that was going to happen, when they put the first two through.

Relaxing in the Orville Lounge (after show)

[The next seven acts are going to get down to three]

Break

Next up: Recycled Percussion, Matt & Anthony, Ishaara
Next act to go home is ... Matt & Anthony. [I figured, from this group]
The act going on to the next round: Recycled Percussion. [YEAH!]
RP spokesperson said they weren't sure whether they'd made it through or not. The voting had to be the closest, yet, and that there were a lot of good acts on this show.
David: (Are you happy to see them back?) ARRRGH! ... You put together a fantastic show. You deserve it. I want to say one thing. Goodbye to Ishaara, it's not the end for them. They were fantastic.

Break

Reba sings her new song: "Consider Me Gone".

Break

Next up: The Lollipop Girls, Barbara Mia Boostrom, Barbara Padilla, Erik & Ricky
Four acts, two spots left.
The next act going home is ... The Lollipop Girls.
The next act going into the semi-finals is ... Barbara Padilla. Sharon: How can you compete with perfect, and she's perfect.

So, we have Mia Boostrom and Erik & Rickie. 5th & 6th in the audience vote. The judges will decide.

Break

Between Mia and Erik & Rickie. One spot left.
David: This is the part of judging that I absolutely hate. You both deserve to go through. For this competition alone, my choice is: Erik & Rickie. Sharon: E&R you remind me of salt shakers, you are so adorable. Piers: If you asked me last night, I'd have said Erik & Rickie (very charming). But I watched it again last night, and you did wonderfully. The act I have to put through is ... Erik & Rickie. Mia was upset, but held it all in, and said that it just goes to show that you can't give up. Keep trying.

A montage of the 20 semi-finalists. 10 acts next week. (Missed it. We'll catch it next week.)

[I've said it before, and I'll say it again. I hope that there are talent scouts watching this show. There are a LOT of good acts that haven't made it through to the finals that SHOULD be doing this for a living. And, the diversity is so great, those scouts could pick and choose the best at doing what they need.]

So, the finalists are: Acrodunk, Drew Thomas Magic, Kevin Skinner, Grandma Lee, Arcadian Broad, Fab Five, Voices of Glory, The Texas Tenors, Paradizo Dance, Tony Hoard & Rory, Jeffrey Ou, Lawrence Beaman, Mario & Jenny, Hairo Torres, FootworKINGz, Drew Stevyns, The Eriam Sisters, Recycled Percussion, Barbara Padilla, and Erik & Rickie.

Here's the full episode: http://www.nbc.com/americas-got-talent/video/episodes/?vid=1151190#vid=1151190

Here's the show site: http://www.nbc.com/americas-got-talent/

Here are the highlight videos (especially, individual acts) from Season 4: http://www.nbc.com/americas-got-talent/video/categories/season-4-highlights/1094635/ (plenty of other options on this page.)

Here are the full episodes from Season 4: http://www.nbc.com/americas-got-talent/video/categories/season-4/1127763/ (again, there are plenty of options on this page.)

C'ya next week. ;-)

America's Got Talent - 2009 (08/25/2009)

Last Quarter-Final: Ishaara, Coney Island Chris, Matt & Anthony, Pam Martin's Top Dogs, African High Fliers, Erik and Rickie, The Eriam Sisters, Mia Boostrom, Recycled Percussion, Barbara Padilla, and the Wildcards: Drew Stevyns and the Lollipop Girls.

Ishaara from Berkley, California (Bollywood and modern dance)
Piers: What a wonderful way to start the show. I think you have an incredible freshness about you. You're having fun and so are we. Sharon: This is what I mean by "If you dance, you've got to be different." Sexy and exotic. David: America's got ... Bollywatch! You guys are by far the best one (dance act) we've got. (Nice. They are an entertaining and interesting group.)

Break

Barbara Padilla from Texas (Operatic singer who had cancer)
Sharon: What a magnificent woman you are. You've taken my breath away. So perfect, the performance, the way you look, you are a star. David: There is a saying, "You are exactly where you're supposed to be in life. You are spiritually blessed. Piers: Look at you. The reason Simon Cowell created these shows is so people like you, a great mum, living her dream... You've raised the bar so high tonight, I don't anyone beating you. (Excellent. She should make it through, if America has ANY taste!)

Break

Pam Martin's Top Dogs from Texas (Dog act)
Dancing to "Now That I Can Dance". David: You know what, there's another act that had a lot of dogs, and they're playing in Hollywood every night, now. Even if you don't win, you have a great act. Piers: I was sure I was gonna buzz you. But Spike did not make a mistake. Sharon: Pam, you are just the best, and Spike is incredible. (Pretty good.)

Break

African High Fliers from Florida (acrobatics)
Song: I Like to Move it Move it". Piers buzzed. Piers: Eh, well ... Here's why I buzzed you. When I saw Barbara earlier, I thought I could watch her for an hour. I didn't think you raised the bar enough tonight. Sharon: We told you before that you needed to add other elements to the act. I don't know if you added enough. David: I don't know what they were watching, but I loved you. From Kenya to America to the biggest stage. If you don't make it, you are STILL a Vegas act. (I don't know that they could carry a full 90-minute show by themselves. With others, sure. They ARE good at what they do.)

Break

Mia Boostrom from Massechusettes (singer - Didn't make it past Las Vegas last year)
Song: Hallelujah. Sharon: Mia, who knew. That's a huge, huge song that you took on and you did it. You are unique, and it's great to be unique. You've blown me away. David: You know Mia it's just amazing, when you started, you were 14-15, now you're 16. Look at how far you've come. You're beautiful and classy. Piers: I thought you missed some notes. To be honest, do I rate you higher than (other singers), and to be honest, I can't. (It was a great song selection. Piers was right on the final high notes, she was a BIT off, but still, a great performance.)

Break

Erik and Rickie from Washington (state) (kids - ballroom dancers)
Sharon & David standing ovation. David: You guys are so little I couldn't find you. Then you dance so great. Rickie you attitude is so great, so cool. Erik, you are the man. Loved the choreography. Piers: Have you been doing some secret practicing behind Rickie's back? Because in the audition she was much better than you. Tonight, you were the MAN. Sharon: Just the right amount of drama brought into the dance. I know there are millions of people who adore what you're doing. I just hope they vote, vote, vote for you. (Wonder if, whichever way this goes, they'll make an appearance on Dancing with the Stars or So You Think You Can Dance?)

Coney Island Chris from Connecticut (shock/comedic performance)
Piers and Sharon buzzed. David buzzed at the end. Piers: Chris you committed the absolutely cardinal sin of anyone that does what you do. It wasn't entertaining. Sharon: Come on, you're a grownup, you can hear a pin drop in the room. I don't know how you got this far. David: I thought you were going to set yourself on fire. I was hoping you would. (It's a "clown" act of sorts. He was NOT funny tonight. Kinda a Pee Wee Herman voice... Just strange, far as I'm concerned.)

Break

Matt & Anthony from New York (one guy sings & plays guitar, and the other tap-dances)
Song: Freedom. Piers buzzed. Sharon: I think Anthony... You know what I think of your dancing. There's just something about this gelling that's missing. David: I think the combination works. It's a little rusty going up the stairs, but tight coming down. It was just a little off tonight. Piers: What the other two are struggling to say is you're a great dancer, and you're not that great of a singer. (They were both pretty good... Anthony WAS better. I don't know that he'd be that good without Matt, though. They DO play off each other.)

Break

The Lollipop Girls from California (dance with the art of tease)
Song: Big Spender. David: You were voted off, but you're the Lollipop Girls - You may take a licking but you keep on ticking. You were terrific. Las Vegas NEEDS an act like this. Piers: You want some oxygen David. Ladies, I could watch... I could watch that for a very long time. I wasn't sure about you before, but I'm certain, now. I like you. Sharon: It's so much fun what you do. It's so fun. It's great to see what you do. (Yeah, that was fun, and very Vegas. I don't know about making it through, though.)

Break

Drew Stevyns from Maryland (singer/guitar player)
Song: How to Save a Life(?) - Piers: How many jobs have you done outside of music. I don't think you're the best singer in the competition, at all. I think that was the best performance you've ever given. Sharon: Loved your song choice, it suited your voice. You actually surprised me, and I'm so glad we brought you back. David: I was in my dressing room during rehersal and I heard someone singing, and I asked "Who is that?" and it was you. Great emotional job. (Yep. I don't know that he's the best, but he's at least as good as the chicken farmer.)

Break

Recycled Percussion from New Hampshire (make music with almost anything)
Song: Ballroom Blitz. Standing Ovation from ALL the judges. Sharon: I tell you something guys. I applaud you. Just fantastic to watch. So much energy. I can't wait for you to come back so I can see what you bring us. David: I can't wait to go bang on things. You did what we told you to do, and you brought it. Piers: What can I say? We give lots of acts advice. Sometimes they take it, sometimes they ignore it. I could not believe what I was seeing tonight. 25 times better than the audition. Now we have to ask ourselves if a pile of trash can win America's Got Talent. I think they can. (THAT was COOL! THAT is a Vegas Act. They HAVE to make it through.)

Break

Eriam Sisters from Seattle (3 sisters - singers)
Song: Looking So Crazy in Love(?). David: You know this is becoming America's Got Kids. Your strong suit is your voices, not your dancing. If you come back, do more singing. Piers: I like the dancing. You have a cheeky way of dancing. You are the next Destiny's Child. Sharon: It's really hard to do what you did. But you did it. I just hope America brings you back. I want to see what you will bring us next.

That's it!

Wife: Barbara Padilla, Mia Boostrom, Lollipop Girls, Drew Stevyns, Recycled Percussion
Me: Barbara Padilla, Mia Boostrom, Lollipop Girls, Recycled Percussion, Eriam Sisters

Reba McIntyre will be here live tomorrow for the results show.

Here's the full-episode video: http://www.nbc.com/americas-got-talent/video/episodes/?vid=1151014#vid=1151014

See you then. ;-)