Is Syesha Mercado Too Theatrical for American Idol?

Syesha Mercado is a talented woman who may be better suited to theater than to being the next American Idol. In previous American Idol seasons, the three judges chastised contestants who were too theatrical or better suited to Broadway. Does anyone remember Elizabeth Letendre or other more theatrical performers from previous American Idol seasons?

Syesha Mercado: "Hello Again"

Syeshsa Mercado sang Neil Diamond's "Hello Again" during American Idol's Neil Diamond song song. She chose to go barefoot again, which provided a nice contrast to her deep purple dress and glamour girl hair.

While it was a pretty song, and Syesha has talent, she also seems to fit into another era. Simon called her performance, "old-fashioned."

Syesha Mercado: "Thank The Lord For The Nighttime"

She went all out for her theatrical performance bordering on gospel show with last night's rendition of Neil Diamond's "Thank The Lord For The Nighttime" on American Idol.

This talented singer does belong on a stage, she is not modern or interesting enough to be the next American Idol.

Syesha Mercado: Musical Theater Performer

Syesha Mercado admitted on a previous show that she has the most fun singing when she can step outside herself and become someone else. Her piano-top performance proved that.

She further solidified her future as a musical theater performer with last night's rendition of Neil Diamond's "Thank The Lord For The Nighttime." This is not bad thing.

Previously, the musical theater reference was used in a negative manner by the American Idol judges. This year they seem to be using it as a compliment to Syesha Mercado.

Syesha Mercado: Melodious and Pleasant

Syesha Mercado shows consistently that her voice is melodious. Week after week she proves that she can sing. Syesha also proves to the American Idol audience that her talent is solid and unwavering.

What's Missing

What is missing in Syesha Mercado's performance is the memorability factor. I can remember more of Jason Catro's performances and more of Brooke White's quirky performances than I can remember Syesha Mercado's performances.

What Puts Syesha Mercado at Risk