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By Julia Lilkendey
Although American Idol is now in its sixth season, this Fox reality show is still hitting all the high notes with critics and fans. As we approach the finale, we keep track of the aspiring singers who keep us tuning in every week ‑- and get us to exercise our index fingers on Tuesday nights. For our take on the finalists, including odds, our predictions and their celebrity look-alikes, read on. Plus: Who should be booted next? Vote here. And be sure to check back each week for updates. And check out our amusing Idolrecaps after each show.
22, Naperville, IL Why her? She's sick of the auditions and has the eye of the tiger. No stranger to American Idol, Gina auditioned for Season Four and Five too. (She made it to Hollywood last year.) Plus, she's the only girl rocker. In all five years, the Idol has never been a girl rocker. Why not? Melinda, Lakisha and Jordin are too hot to handle. What Simon says: At first he didn't think she had an identity. Now that she's gone rock, he thinks it fits her best. But he reminds her that style will only take her so far in this singing competition. Celebrity twin: Pink Update: Goodnight, Gina! America wasn't ready for a female rocker just yet. She was cut on April 4.
24, San Antonio, TX Why her? She is growing as a performer, and it's interesting to watch her change week in and week out. Why not? There's no way she's more talented than the other ladies. What Simon says: "I said to Paula halfway through the song, I don't know your name... didn't think you made enough of an impression." (He told Katharine McPhee she was forgettable early on, too.) Simon has since said Scarnato might go further than he initially stated. Celebrity twin: Last Year's American Idol runner-up Katharine McPhee. Odds: She won't make it passed the eighth position. Although she's better than Sanjaya, she could be the next to go.
17, Glendale, AZ Why her? She's impressive, young, versatile and has the courage to knock out some really difficult songs. She has great range and her energy is infectious. Why not? She has Melinda and Lakisha to deal with. And Blake could give her a run for her money too. What Simon says: At first he thought she was too sugary, now she's progressing nicely... to just about his taste. Celebrity twin: Chaka Khan Odds: Jordin will make it to the top four, but could take the whole shebang if she plays her cards right.
29, Brentwood, TN Why her? From background singer to lead vocalist! Not only are her performances impeccable, but it's nice to see good things happen to good people. Why not? Vocals aside, how many people like the wide-eyed, oh, you really do like me bit? What Simon says: "I have seen people come out here with little talent and a huge amount of arrogance and you're the opposite. You are an incredible singer. You have a fantastic story. You are a fantastic person. I hope you do well." Celebrity twin: Marlon Wayans as Calvin Sims in the movie Little Man. Odds: She keeps getting better every week! We bet she'll be in the finals.
27, Fort Meade, MD Why her? She can belt them out! Lakisha is passionate, talented and totally believable. Why not? From day one Lakisha has been at the top of her game, but Melinda is gaining on her as she shows us what she's got each week. What Simon says: During the Hollywood semifinals he said, "I am very tempted to say to 23 people, book your plane tickets home. Sorry, that was in a different league." Celebrity twin: Throw a pair of glasses on her and she's Randy Jackson's twin sister. Don't cha agree, dawg? Odds: She's sticking around for finals week
25, Bothell, WA Why him? He's fun, unique, has skills and is true to himself. Not only does he sing well, but you never know when he's going to break out the beatboxing and scatting. Why not? The girls are stronger contenders. What Simon says: During his audition he said, "You're good, just... I don't know if you're as good as you think you are." Since then, Simon's been coming around. Celebrity twin: Justin Timberlake -- minus the celebrity ladies lining up around the block for him. Odds: He's so cutting edge and entertaining. He'll at least make it to the top three.
22, Chesapeake, VA Why him? He's smart with his song choices. Chris is hot, young and sexy and would make a great album. Why not? Because he and Blake are so adorable... and share a portion of each other's fan base. However, Blake's uniqueness gives him an edge. What Simon says: Chris could possibly surprise us. Celebrity twin: Kevin Connolly from Entourage. We'll hang with him if Adrian Grenier's in his posse! Odds: He and Gina will be fighting it out for that five spot.
29, Jacksonville, FL Why him? He has a really great voice, and is a decent guy. He missed the birth of his daughter to audition. What a great story to tell! Why not? The winner is going to be a girl or Blake. There really isn't any room for anything else. What Simon says: He has the "likeability factor, but is just a really, really good karaoke singer." Celebrity twin: Sean Patrick Flanery in the movie Powder. Odds: He could make it to seven, but his fans really need to be alert and pull for him.
17, Federal Way, WA Why him? He has the most room for improvement. Many tricksters who want to sabotage the show are all dialing like crazy to keep him in it. Why not? He has the least amount of experience and is not the best singer. Those playing jokes and voting for him will get tired of the game. What Simon says: In his audition Simon called him a "shy little thing with a good voice." Now, he jokes that he's staying in the competition because of his hair. Celebrity twin: Michael Jackson -- from the early days. Hey, if AI was unable to get MJ for this season's lineup -- looks like Sanjaya is the next best thing. Odds: The clock is ticking for Sanjaya... it's only a matter of time before the gig is up.
28, Greenville, SC Why him? Who doesn't love to laugh and be surprised. Even though the funny guy is truly a great singer, it's surprising to hear just how good he is every single week. Why not? With his lofty personality, when it comes down to it -- voters just might not take him as a serious contender. What Simon says: "You have a great personality. Everyone likes you... you have potential." Celebrity twin: Jack Osbourne Update: Buh-bye, Chris! He was cut on March 28.
"Celebrity twin- Lakisha: Throw a pair of glasses on her and she's Randy Jackson's twin sister. Don't cha agree, dawg?" That's Too Funny..