American Idol Finale Part 1: Cook Vs. Archuleta

Last night (5/20/08) was the first part of American Idol's finale, you know the one everyone has been looking forward to? As the show began, everyone witnessed both of the contestants dressed in boxing gear to the tune of Rocky Balboa, but it was the actual performances that made the first part of the finale so grand. As David Archuleta and David Cook continue to switch favoritism back and forth, last night's show might have sealed the deal. L.A.'s Nokia Theater was filled to capacity with a little over 7,000 fans, and both of the Davids experienced what it was like to perform in front of a massive audience. Now if I may?

"Let's Get Ready To Rumble!" This being a direct quote from professional ring announcer Michael Buffer.

David Cook: Age: 25, Hometown: Blue Springs, MO
"I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For:" Legendary record producer Clive Davis selected U2's "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For," and after he finished singing it, the judges were quite happy with his opening performance. Randy said that the performance was hot, and that it was a great starting song choice. Paula stated that Cook might have not found what he was looking for, but they found him. Simon thought it was phenomenal.

"Dream Big:" The second round for Cook had him singing "Dream Big" by Emily Shackelton (kind of an odd choice), and while I thought it wasn't that bad of a performance at all, possibly his best, many of the judges weren't as psyched about it. Cook selected this song choice out 10 possible choices. Let's see what the judges had to say about his song choice... Randy said that Cook made it his own because he sang his face off. Paula was in awe as she normally is with Cook. Simon called the performance "a bit of a lightweight" and that it felt it failed to live up to his expectations of a "winning moment."