Yes, the wind blows a little bit colder, and we’re all getting older, and the clouds are moving on with every Autumn breeze.
It’s the first anniversary of Frozen II. This time last year, the much-anticipated sequel to the hit Disney film based on the classic Snow Queen story premiered in cinemas worldwide, inviting us to follow our favorite Arendelle sisters Elsa and Anna as they journey “into the unknown”, entering the Enchanted Forest beyond their kingdom by way of a mysterious call from afar with Kristoff, Olaf and Sven joining them.
Digital streaming service Disney+ has recently released Into the Unknown: Making Frozen II, a six-episode documentary series that highlights the behind-the-scenes process of the movie at the Walt Disney Animation Studios. We get to witness directors Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck offer their insights and notes at every production meeting while also gain access to interviews with the mega talented team of animators in addition to watching stars Idina Menzel, Kristen Bell, Josh Gad and Jonathan Groff lay down their vocals and hit songwriters Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez craft new music that has the same if not bigger impact than the original movie.
For dedicated fans of the franchise, this documentary is definitely a treat and packed with rich information about how Frozen II came to be. It covers everything from pre-production to the premiere.
Kieran, dim the lights. This is the best music competition on TV. This… is American Idol! Third time is truly a charm for the ABC version of the show. Not only are Katy Perry, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan returning as the network’s trio of judges. A new batch of hopefuls are displaying their vocal and songwriting talents. Plus Ryan Seacrest is always there to link viewers to the greatness of the Idol brand with his iconic presence as a host.
After giving us a number of unforgettable talents like Maddie Poppe, Catie Turner, Michael J. Woodard, Jeremiah Lloyd Harmon, Uche, Alejandro Aranda a.k.a. ScaryPoolParty, Laine Hardy, Evelyn Cormier, Laci Kaye Booth, Walker Burroughs, Dimitrius Graham and Madison Vandenburg, ABC still proves that incredible music is everywhere and worth supporting with last week’s Season 3/Season 18 premiere episode.
Here are some of the fascinating things about this brand new season that makes the show worth tuning in:
Early Start
American Idol in February? That’s right! It has been a while since the series was given an early premiere (usually January during the FOX years). ABC has always favored a March debut. After the first two seasons, this is the first time we get Idol a month early on the network. Cheers!!!
Voting Changes
I’m glad we’re back to the golden years of Idol where voting starts during the Top 20/24 semifinals.
Arthur Gunn
His audition made him the ultimate standout from last week. With that rawness in his vocals and a genuine personality, this guy deserves a recording contract right away. Lionel Richie was right that this is the story that American Idol needs to tell. Truly authentic!
Just Sam
Kind, humble, loves her grandma and an immense passion for singing. These qualities make her easy to adore. Look out for more Sam in Hollywood as she continues to inspire us.
Margie Mays!!!
Ever since she sang “Shot” by Lawrence last season, Margie became an instant favorite – and rightfully so! With originals like “Magic in Me” and “Over Again”, she’s the unique voice that today’s mainstream music industry needs. Let’s welcome her back in tonight’s episode. Bonus: she’ll also be bringing her bf Jonny West based on the latest promo. Gotta love a musical duo.
For 16 seasons, this music competition show has provided a platform for aspiring singers from all over America – and the world – to build fanbases and launch their careers in entertainment. From the original idol Kelly Clarkson and chart-topping favorites like Adam Lambert, Jennifer Hudson, Tori Kelly, David Cook and David Archuleta to game-changers that charm you with their uniqueness like Haley Reinhart, Michael J. Woodard and Catie Turner, plenty of American Idol alumni have been able to find steady work in the world of showbiz and media.
After its 15-season run on FOX that was full of highs and some lows, ABC has taken over and successfully revamped the show into one that is refreshing and new. Fresh after Maddie Poppe’s win last year, Season 17 has officially started last Sunday featuring brand new talents in pursuit of their dreams. To celebrate 17 seasons of American Idol, here’s a list of 17 unforgettable performances by my top favorite idols.
“Bennie and the Jets” ~ Haley Reinhart
One of Idol‘s very best, Haley has gone a long way from her “Oh Darling” audition to preparing for her 4th studio album Lo-Fi Soul (after Listen Up, Better and What’s That Sound) and going platinum with her divine rendition of the Elvis Presley hit “Can’t Help Falling in Love”. She also performs with the Postmodern Jukebox and voices Bill in the Netflix series F is for Family. “Bennie and the Jets” was the Idol performance that gained her a massive fanbase. And it still remains a CLASSIC.
“Golden Slumbers” ~ Michael J. Woodard
Michael has a super versatile voice, charisma and a bigger-than-life personality that makes him another Idol great, one deserving of millions of records. He’s able to turn every song into gold and put his own original spin on it. The ability to go from a high-energy range to a soft, pure, gentle tone makes all his performances wonderful treats. One of his captivating moments was his uplifting rendition of the Beatles classic “Golden Slumbers”. You just can’t help but adore him and his sincerity.
“Music of the Night” ~ David Cook
You can always count on Mr. Cook to transform a tune that you’ve heard tons of times into something new and radio-worthy. One of Idol‘s most daring contestants (and my favorite winner ever), David’s amazing rock vocal and songwriting prowess always add depth to his music, from the originals on his album (with This Loud Morning being my top favorite) to the covers he did on Idol and occasionally perform at his own concerts. His version of the “Phantom of the Opera” classic “Music of the Night” was one of the performances that solidified him as a contender and is still worth a listen.
“You’re So Vain” ~ Brooke White
Brooke changed my life and was the very first person to inspire me to pursue music and songwriting. Everything I do that is music-related, I owe it all to her. What a wonderful singer-songwriter and a lovely soul. Season 7 was the first time I watched Idol from beginning to end, and Brooke has always added sunshine to my days with her Carole King and Carly Simon vibe, unique tone and California cool. Up until now, I would still play her “You’re So Vain” on repeat.
“Shop Around” ~ David Archuleta
He may have been seventeen during his time on Idol, but David Archie has always had it in the bag to deliver groundbreaking, heartwarming performances week after week. A total pro from Day 1! Whether singing behind the piano or with a plain mic, his voice is pure magic. “Shop Around” was a super fun David Archie performance and showcased his youthful side. Always great to look back on!
“Crazy on You” ~ Carly Smithson
With a haunting Evanescence-like tone that’s out-of-this-world and an Irish charm that casts a spell on viewers, Carly can easily switch from a high-energy performance to one that is quiet but commanding. Her rock band’s record We Are the Fallen and bubblegum pop solo debut album from back in her younger years are still captivating with their contrasting genres. One of my top fave Carly performances from Idol was Heart’s energetic hit “Crazy on You”. Crazy good!!!
“One Rock and Roll Too Many” ~ Syesha Mercado
Syesha is electric! One of the more underrated Idol performers. With the ability to nail both pop and Broadway, Syesha’s star has always meant to shine bright, and Idol was the right platform for her to showcase her talent and sassy, fun persona.
“Rebel Yell” ~ Dalton Rapattoni
Dalton made the final FOX season of Idol worth watching with his creativity in arranging songs. A former member of IM5 and indie band Fly Away Hero, he has always been humble and grounded, focusing purely on his talent and storytelling abilities with every performance. Billy Idol’s “Rebel Yell” is a Dalton cover I keep coming back to. It was very well-arranged and showcased his unique rock vocal.
“Paint It Black” ~ Siobhan Magnus
What was going to be a dull 9th season after Kris Allen, Adam Lambert and Allison Iraheta rocked Season 8 turned out to be the opposite thanks to Siobhan, whose magnetic tone and haunting presence glued the audience to the show. With a killer voice, she made “Paint It Black” one of the best performances ever in Idol history.
“Don’t You Forget About Me” ~ Michael Johns
Gone too soon, the late Michael Johns was able to pair his raspy yet soulful voice and rocker persona with his natural Aussie charm to create music that mattered. His record Heart on My Sleeve is forever a gem that reminds us that beautiful music still exists. From “Across the Universe” and “Dream On” to “It’s Not Right But It’s Okay”, all his Idol performances are worth playing on repeat. “Don’t You Forget About Me” is still one of his best in my book.
“Once Upon a Dream” ~ Catie Turner
Quirky and bubbly, Catie has proven she was more than just another Idol contestant but a singer-songwriter who can write powerful feminist anthems like 21st Century Machine that became her audition song. A fan favorite like Michael J. Woodard in ABC’s first Idol season, she excels in impactful acoustic-based songs. One of her most magical performances was her grand rendition of “Once Upon a Dream” during Disney Night.
“A House is Not a Home” ~ Tamyra Gray
Tamyra’s stunning velvety voice, remarkable beauty and likable, outgoing personality made her a shining star in the first ever Idol show on FOX, proving that she was just as wonderful as Kelly and deserved way better as far as the music industry goes. Her record The Dreamer was full of empowering hits. “A House is Not a Home” will forever be a timeless Tamyra tune from her Idol run.
“I’ll Stand By You” ~ Pia Toscano
With a soaring grand voice, Pia can make every song sparkle like diamonds. Her unjustly elimination was so bittersweet it was the first that made me tear up for nights. The message behind her every song is pure and raw. “This Time” deserves better, and the ethereal “You’ll Be King” is bound to be a Pia classic. Out of all her Idol performances, “I’ll Stand By You” still makes a big impact on me.
“Ain’t No Sunshine” ~ Kris Allen
Just like Adam Lambert who reigned supreme in the electric Season 8, Kris has always brought the magic to the Idol stage with his immense creativity and masterful approach towards every song to make them sound distinctive and new. It all won him the crown in a group full of big-voiced contestants. A superb singer-songwriter, Kris came out of nowhere and made America fall in love with him starting with his gorgeous cover of Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror” all the way to the finale.
“Vienna” ~ Elise Testone
As a fan of raspy-sounding females, Elise quickly became an instant favorite of mine during Season 11. She’s a master at tackling bluesy, soulful tunes, including Adele’s “One and Only”. “Vienna” remains one of my best-loved Elise covers. Very underrated and deserves more accolades.
“Because the Night” ~ Nick Fradiani Idol isn’t just about big voices. It can be about having a cool sound and creative way of songwriting. Nick has one of those throwback voices that can easily cross over from pop-rock to the more retro genre. His arrangement of radio hits like “Teenage Dream” displayed his strength as a singer-songwriter who can easily twist songs. “Because the Night” was one of his top Idol highlights.
“I’m Not the Only One” ~ Rayvon Owen
Rayvon will forever be the king of Idol Saves, having survived Bottom 2 week after week in the lives thanks to a social media fan save option that Season 14 was known for. On a more positive note, it made his Idol journey more endearing with every fight resulting in beautiful performances, one of them being “I’m Not the Only One”, making him one of the best male pop singers the show has ever cast.
American Idol is once again a ratings powerhouse thanks to ABC, and after two weeks of TOP 24 semifinals plus all-star duets, judges Lion Ritchie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan have picked the 14 finalists who make it to America’s votes.
Comments from viewers on the TOP 14 are going viral on the Internet, ranging from rave reviews to fiery disapprovals. Here at Cappuccino, I am celebrating all of them, as I believe these 14 finalists have something to offer to the diverse music fans around the world. It’s 2018, so let’s practice positivity as we go along.
ADA VOX/ADAM SANDERS – Electric and a powerhouse! Ada has the “it” factor and always commands the stage, making every performance look like an actual concert, and that’s what music is supposed to be… Exciting!
CADE FOEHNER – Kudos to Cade for bringing old school rock to the modern times and making it current once again. He’s the new rock ‘n’ roll pioneer and is my (and many others’) pick to WIN it all! Ever since I came across his “Rocket Man” and “Wanted Dead or Alive” videos long before the show premiered, I knew he’d be an instant favorite. That Phillip Phillips voice also allows him to give any kind of tune his own twist.
CALEB HUTCHINSON – I’m so happy to say Caleb is the very first male country singer I’m interested in on Idol. He comes across as very genuine, and for a country guy, he has such a unique tone and range. I also love the fact that he always posts uplifting, encouraging messages on his social media like many of the other finalists.
DENNIS LORENZO – Super commercial voice and star persona! Dennis can sing any tune and make it sound fresh, soulful and new. His audition plus duet with Allen Stone where he sang “Unaware” proved he has what it takes to sell records. If not Cade, Dennis could definitely be ABC’s very first American Idol!
GARRETT JACOBS – Unique and raspy voiced, Garrett is a male singer whose records I want to buy. Just look up his Chris Stapleton and John Mayer covers on Youtube, and there’s no denying his talent and distinctive tone. Inspired by iconic idols like Haley Reinhart, Casey Abrams and Clark Beckham and with a performance like “Wicked Games” in Hollywood plus his subtle duet with Colbie Caillat, Garrett is way more than just a pretty face and is only going to get better. His journey (plus later career) is super endearing to follow.
JONNY BRENNS – He’s clearly very passionate in pursuing a career in music, and that shows in his originals, one of which he sang in his audition. With good looks and a natural talent followed by a lot of consistency, he will definitely add a lot of freshness to the competition.
MARCIO DONALDSON – The universe needs Marcio and his music. With a compelling story and an even bigger voice, Marcio is very deserving of the win and make plenty of records. There’s so much pureness in his soulful voice, and he always sings from the heart. You can tell he really wants this, and you just have to love him. So much respect!
MICHAEL J. WOODARD – Whimsical, adorable and exciting, Michael is truly an artist! He knows how to stand out, and with song choices like Alanis Moirisette’s “You Oughta Know”, the Beatles’ “Golden Slumbers” and the Broadway hit “Maybe This Time”, I’m beyond ready for a Michael Woodard debut album! He also seems approachable and is all about universal love. If he ever takes on a Barbra Streisand tune, it’d be even more glorious. I see him as a young, male version of Barbra in that he has a “bigger than life” appeal in his voice and an irresistable charm.
CATIE TURNER – Just like Michael, Catie with a C is an original and is socially conscious in addition to being entertaining. Everything about her screams superstar. Songs like “21st Century Machine” are instant hits with thought-provoking lyrics. With a massive following that exceeds the rest, it’s very clear that the world adores her and the messages she tries to communicate through her music, and she’s very deserving of the crown. Gotta love her jazz notes, spunky personality and cool boots too!
GABBY BARRETT – Be it country or soul, Gabby excels at both genres. With a beautiful Daenerys hair style and a strong range, this gal can sing the phonebook and slay. She truly has the power to succeed.
JURNEE – Pop star! That’s what Jurnee is destined to become. Very commercial with a crystal clear voice and a star-studded look, Jurnee could and should be “the one”. With covers like Jessie J’s “Flashlight” and “Never Enough” from The Greatest Showman plus an elegant duet with Lea Michele, Jurnee’s journey should take her to the finale and Billboard charts. Super inspiring! PS. I’m glad I’m not the only one who notices she resembles a member of my favorite girl group Little Mix – Jade Thirlwall.
MADDIE POPPE – Whimsically delightful right from the start. Maddie’s music always conjures images of sunshine and rainbows, and that’s her brand. It’s syrup and honey for the ears. She deserves to be heard and appreciated. Check out her Songs From the Basement EP, and get ready to enter the wonderful world of Maddie Poppe.
MARA JUSTINE – Mara may be super young, but with a big voice and a down-to-earth personality, she’s like the Kelly Clarkson of the group. There’s so much soul and power in her vocals, followed by that expressive Janis Joplin spirit that makes you want to root for her. It won’t surprise me if the competition ends with her victory (that’d be a well-deserved win), ‘cause her massive talent and charisma truly make a strong combo. Mara is lightyears ahead of her younger self on America’s Got Talent back then and is ready to make her mark in the music industry.
MICHELLE SUSSETT – Her voice is definitely made for the radio. Easily identifiable and current with a Demi Lovato look and energy. It doesn’t matter that she’s not your average Idol contestant. The show’s original mission was to find a pop idol who’s marketable and relevant, and Michelle really fits the bill in that she can work the stage like the pro she is and entertain.
It’s 2018, and the annual Golden Globe Awards went into its 75th year with a fiery revolution in support of women across all industries, encouraging them to speak up in light of abuse, misrepresentation and all forms of mistreatment. The #TimesUp movement packed a lot of female punch, as stars and public figures – women and men – attended the event all decked in black as a sign of solidarity. Most of the wins and speeches on stage also reflected and acknowledged the need to continue pushing for equal opportunities for females in all aspects of their careers.
Speaking as a screenwriter, I stand by Oprah Winfrey, Jessica Chastain, Zoe Saldana, Natalie Portman, Dwayne Johnson, Ansel Elgort, Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Shailene Woodley, Zoe Kravitz, Laura Dern, Evan Rachel Wood, and many other icons in the fight for lady power. May more opportunities open up for female writers, directors, engineers, coders, entrepreneurs, and other career fields from all backgrounds and from all over the world, for the world of storytelling and the entire workforce should always be diverse.
The 75th Golden Globe Awards presented us with tons of highlights. Feel free to list all your favorite moments. Here are mine:
All the Big Little Lies wins (congrats Nicole Kidman and Laura Dern) and the all-girl cast photos.
Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort and Laura Dern in the same room. The Fault in Our Stars nostalgia.
Queen Oprah’s all-inspiring, super important speech about hope and an inclusive future as she accepted the Cecille B. Demille award.
Both Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor winning brought a little Moulin Rouge magic. Viva Satine and Christian!
The Greatest Showman won Best Original Song with “This is Me”.
Barbra Streisand’s surprise appearance. I’d personally want Babs to make a triumphant return to film directing and acting. The last feature film she directed and starred in was the lovely Mirror Has Two Faces.
Saoirse Ronan and the Lady Bird appreciation. Director Greta Gerwig deserved a nomination for crafting a powerful female-driven film.
Oprah Winfrey. Photo Credit: Variety
The Big Little Lies ladies. Photo Credit: ABC
Cappuccino with Jules 