Ep 19. Top 12 Finalists Perform

In American Idol season 8 episode 19, the Top 12 finalists take the stage to perform for America's votes. This marks the first week where the contestants are not grouped by gender, which adds a new dynamic to the competition. Each performer has the chance to showcase their individual strengths and prove why they deserve to move on to the next round.

The episode kicks off with a group performance of "Hot n Cold" by Katy Perry, which sets the tone for a fun and energetic night. The judges - Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, and Kara DioGuardi - take their seats and provide feedback after each performance.

The first contestant to perform is Scott MacIntyre, who sings Billy Joel's "Just the Way You Are." His smooth vocals and piano skills impress the judges, particularly Kara, who says that Scott "nailed it." Next up is Jorge Nunez, who sings "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" by Elton John. Randy says that Jorge's performance was "pitchy in spots," but Simon and Paula disagree, with Simon calling it a "very, very good performance."

Lil Rounds is the third performer and she chooses to sing Mary J. Blige's "Be Without You." Her soulful voice and commanding stage presence prompt Randy to comment, "You're one of the ones to beat in this competition." Next, Danny Gokey sings "What Hurts the Most" by Rascal Flatts. His emotional performance brings Paula to tears and receives praise from the other judges.

Michael Sarver is up next and performs "Ain't Too Proud to Beg" by The Temptations. Although his vocals are not as strong as some of the other performers, his high energy and charisma earn him positive feedback from the judges. Megan Joy sings "Put Your Records On" by Corinne Bailey Rae and showcases her unique style and personality. Despite struggling with her pitch in certain parts of the song, Kara praises her for being "original and captivating."

Matt Giraud takes the stage to perform "You Found Me" by The Fray and shows off his impressive piano skills. The judges agree that his performance was solid, with Simon stating, "I thought this was really, really good." Alexis Grace sings "Jolene" by Dolly Parton and impresses the judges with her powerful vocals and stage presence. Randy declares that she "nailed it" and that she's "the woman to beat in this competition."

Several more performers take the stage throughout the episode, including Allison Iraheta, who sings "Don't Speak" by No Doubt, Anoop Desai, who performs "Caught Up" by Usher, and Adam Lambert, who sings "Play That Funky Music" by Wild Cherry. Each performer adds their own unique style and flair to their performances, making it difficult for America to choose who to vote for.

As the night comes to a close, the judges provide their final thoughts on the performances and encourage viewers to vote for their favorite contestants. It's clear that the competition is heating up and that any of the Top 12 finalists have the potential to become the next American Idol. With each week, the stakes get higher and the pressure mounts for the performers. Who will come out on top? Only time will tell.