The best tracks on this CD, amazingly are from the most popular and LEAST popular contestants on the show. Taylor Hicks ("Takin' It To the Streets") gives us precisely what we expect here in a track that captures the true spirit of the performer and the sorely underrated Melissa McGhee ("What About Love") shines here with a powerful, surprisingly soulful and heartfelt Heart cover. Melissa herself was a victim of Idol politics and not given nearly the airtime of the others, so she was immediately cut out of the competition. Obviously this was a huge mistake on America's part, just like Jessica Sierra's premature cut from Season 4 of Idol. Other good tracks are from Paris, Elliott, Chris and Bucky. The rest are at times painful to listen to. Kellie Pickler manages to strip every ounce of soul and heart from her immensely boring Patsy Cline cover and Kevin Covain ("When I Fall in Love") sounds like any kid in a middle school play. Lisa is exactly what she was on the show (competent, but incredibly dull) - Katharine proves her second place finish was a complete fluke with a plastic pop delivery - Mandisa (who I loved on the show) is a huge disappointment here.

Hmm...could it be she's been eliminated because the majority of people voting don't think she's as talented as the other contestants? Maybe it has nothing whatsoever to do with some racist conspiracy as you seem to think it does. And if you're going to insist on some kind of quota for black winners on Idol, then there won't be another one until after season 8. After all, black are only about 12 percent of the general population and 1 winner in 8 seasons is just about equal to that. Yeesh!

Bottom line: Paris is a talented singer, especially for the Sarah Vaugh/Billie Holliday jazz genre. The times when she sang more modern R&B and pop music are when she did the poorest. She may have a long and successful career in her niche, but I don't think she's cut out for the kind of widespread popularity that American Idol is set up for. That being said, I don't think Taylor or Eliot has the potential for the cross-generational, cross-cultural popularity that AI is trying to find. Chris' genre leanings may restrict him (although Creed did well with a similar genre). Katherine has potential for wide popularity, although her vocals aren't the strongest.

Now that Paris Bennett has been voted off the BEST singer on the show ,  watch the ratings go down.   Its all about politics.  american idol just could not have another talented african american vocolist the winner.  I will not be watching anymore because I do not care who wins now.  This just may be for the best because someone will pick her up and I will be waiting to purchase her CD.    

paris is soooooo missed. it can only be a 'show' with her in there, otherwise all's phony..but but but...on second look elliott is making a difference and he is 'it'...sigh. 

Paris is an annoying little girl that has a good voice because of genetics and a musical upbringing. She has no personality, she reminds me of the high-pitched, quiet, woman in the police academy movies that has the ability to belt out when necessary. She'll be fine, I'm sure mommy has plenty of connections for this annoying little stump.

I've got to agree with bonggarrido.If Paris really needed a record deal, she wouldn't even have to try hard or work for it. She's just on the show for exposure, but if she gets a record deal she won't be that popular. That's just my opinion.