Jason Castro: Why DId You Last so Long?

Jason Castro is not the typical American Idol. He did not perform regularly as a singer, and his characteristic dreds set him apart. It was also very refreshing to see a contestant walk in to audition and not say he was the greatest singer in the world. And yes, he does have talent. He has a quiet, organic style that reminds me of a Jason Mraz or John Mayer. He should be playing in a funky club somewhere that is thick with smoke and deep thinkers. American Idol is not a good platform for him; he was continually surrounded by singers that had more technical skill and big pipes. So why did he last so long? I have a number of ideas, the first being the most important:

1. He's cute.
Let's remember the main demographic for this show - teenage girls. Girls of every generation have adored less than perfect artists because of a cute face and pretty eyes (I still think New Kids on the Block was pretty awesome). And the fact that he was always incredibly modest and shy during interviews certainly helped his adorable image. Who couldn't love a guy who is good but doesn't think he's good?

2. He was an underdog.
Castro was always surrounded by better singers, but he continually survived while they fell to the wayside (Why, Carly, why?). The reason goes back to reason #1, and the fact that a supportive audience loves to root for a guy who won't win. He's not versatile - get him away from his genre of choice (Cats? Really?) and he falls on his face. Then when he falls he simply shrugs his shoulders and flashes a smile to the audience; they in turn melt. And the tendency to vote for a guy who everyone likes is too common. As Simon always says, this is a singing competition. Does anyone remember that?

Jason Castro was always happy to be on stage, but he was there a little too long.

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