America's Got More Talent

I finally caught up with viewing "America's Got Talent" today. Now I see that they are eliminating half of each ten contestants. I was pretty content with the results of the first night's votes. The acts I really thought should be eliminated were. I've got to start learning names of the different contestants and groups.

Last night brought the usual mix of strange and wonderful acts. I have to say that as sweet as the Wright Kids are, it felt more like they were in an elementary school talent show. They sing well, but are far from perfect. I remember the Osmands when they were young. Seems to me their singing was a bit better. The guy who became a human pinata was a just plain strange. I sort of liked the Slippery Ladies, or whatever the vaudeville group was called, but I have to agree with Piers that the tattoos are off-putting. Queen Emily is good. She's got to go on!

One thing that troubles me about the show is the 'tugging at the heart strings' factor. Whether it's the cute little 4-year-old girl, who hasn't performed yet, or the devoted mother who is finally getting her chance, or a young soldier who tugs on our patriotism, I have to wonder how much those things are pulling votes from people with more talent.

I also liked the man who channels Frank Sinatra. I hope he'll go on to the final twenty. I can't quite remember the other acts which might not be a good thing. When you only have one chance, you want to make a good impression.

The next show will be Tuesday. We'll find out who from Wednesday night is going on and then see ten more acts. I think it's interesting that the judges make the final decision on who will proceed from the acts that are voted fifth and sixth. I think that is good, but it has to be hard to do that in front of a huge live audience. I suppose the "Can You Duet" judges faced the same predicament. Judges on shows like "Project Runway" and "America's Next Top Model" have it easy. They don't get booed. Or as least they can't hear the boos coming from peoples' livingrooms.