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A BIG FAT NOOOOO! Durbin doesn't come close to Adam! He doesn't have the control, charisma --- just no comparison! See Slezak's comments of this on a different thread - he said it all.

He is clearly copying Adam. He referenced Adam and even picked one of Adam's songs (from Season 8) to sing. He tried to do it like Adam. He appears to have a nice voice with a large range, but he needs to show some originality. Imitation is flattery, but it's not going to help him advance on Idol. He is an interesting guy overcoming some real hardships. Just do your own thing James. Adam's been done and ain't nobody going to do that again!! And ain't nobody going to do it better than Sir Adam!!

Vocally, he does remind me a little of Adam but I'm not sensing any star power from him.

Voice is not trained like AL. His scream is just that, a scream/screech sorry to say and from what I hear he is said to be annoying

Boy is very sick. I watched AI tonight. Just wanted to see these boys and girls who went through to final 24.
James Durbin is very sick boy. I forgot the name of this illness. He can't control face muscles, speech, moves. He doesn't sing, he just screames. And it sounds terrible! I don't know how it was possible to keep James and let go very talented boys!
Even if somebody wanted to give James chance to be for while on the stage he already got it. And his last choice song was Whole Lotta Love. He is deff trying to perform and sing like Adam. And certainly without any success. Shame on Randy, JLo, and Taylor!
delilah5

whole lotta love? I heard A Change is gonna come. Wish show were you watching?

James said he was trying to emulate Adam and I think he gave it a good shot. James has talent for sure but imitation is one thing and originality is another. Adam has the charisma and showmanship that sets him apart from all the others. Hitting those high notes reminds me of Adam but there's more to being an American Idol or superstar than that. It's very flattering for someone to recognize you as a talented artist and want to follow in your footsteps so Adam must feel appreciative. However few sing with such heart and soul or touch people with their voice the way Adam does. It's hard to express, you just feel it. James has a interesting back story and seems like a genuinely nice guy. Guess America gets to write the next chapter in his life.

Awww, hang on people. I don't watch AI. Never have, probably never will - with the ONE exception of watching Adam's performances on YouTube, after the show ended each night (no t.v. at the time), so I don't normally see the whole "back story" on these contestants. Maybe I'm a sucker for the underdog, but I am rooting for James...what a life he's had!! No - he's no Adam...but then, I doubt we will ever see another "Adam" in our lifetime. I don't think he's trying to copy Adam, just think they have a similar range (not that anyone can come close to Adam's) and can both do that "rocker shriek". :)

I like this guy - I wish him well. This is just MHO. Don't plan to watch the show though, so somebody please let me know what happens! :)

- Adam Fix

Aww, he is trying so hard I hope he does well. I am an AI watcher and voter so I hope he does well so I can vote for him. Team James.

James has Tourette's Syndrome and Aspberger's form of autism (one of the highest functioning levels). He does not appear to be a "very sick boy" but he is no match for Adam Lambert. I did not hear him sing 'Whole Lotta Love' but I did hear him sing 'Change is Gonna Come'. His change was interesting and different than Adam's three versions.
Best advice I have for James is to focus on being the best he can be and forget being an imitation. He doesn't have any of the characteristics that Adam's fans appreciate in Adam (i.e., extreme talent, centered, high intelligence, charisma, great hair, super good looking, excellent taste, need I go on?).
I'll send a few votes his way but I really wanted to see John Wayne Schulz and Jacee Badeux go through. I'll also vote for Scott McCrerry (Mr. Deep Voice) and Lauren Alaina. However, no one will ever get 3.75 votes a minute for the full allotted voting time like I voted for Adam. Adam is a once-in-a-generation entertainer and I'm going to be one of many fans who will help him achieve his highest potential.

@delilah
James does indeed have some challenging conditions that make his life a little more difficult and I think he seems to do well, all things considered. He has Tourettes Syndrome which explains the involuntary facial expressions, "tics", etc., , and Aspergers Syndrome, a "high functioning" form of Autism with its challenges as well. (My ex-daughter in law has Asperger's and it has made her life difficult in certain respects) . It is sometimes characterized by very focused interest and even talent in specific areas, but those who are affected by it can also have mild to severe difficulties in social interaction. Medication can help. Apparently he has a very loving and understanding wife (I think he's married (?)) who has been really supportive and helpful to him. He isn't "sick", just a little different.

As for his voice, I think he has talent, but is trying too hard to perhaps be like Adam Lambert, and his choice of singing songs previously done by Adam is a mistake in my opinion, but in a way, you can't blame him for trying. Hoping he gets some help from the vocal coaches to develop his own style and even things out a bit. No one can emulate Adam and be successful. I do wish him the best and hope he does well.

Ooops! Looks like I was working on my post at the same time as @anon 10:58 PM!

I also watched AI tonight which kind of surprises me since I vowed never to watch the show again after the voting fiasco on the finale of Season 8 between Kris Allen and Adam Lambert. Sometimes I think I still haven't completely recovered from the shock of Kris winning and Adam not. As we've all heard Adam say, though, he was not in it for the "title" but for the opportunity to use the show as a platform for his career and, boy, did that work in his favor! As far as I'm concerned,and as talented as the contestants are on Season 10, there is no one that can come close to Adam in vocal excellence, charisma, good looks, personality, charm, intelligence and, well, just the "it" factor that Adam has. Yes, James Durbin can "scream" and has a powerful voice but that's as far as it goes. Adam is so much more polished and professional in his performance. He knew what songs would best showcase his voice, range and feelings. I'm not sure that James is nearly so self-aware as Adam.

My adult daughter watched AI with me tonight and she admitted liking James Durbin (she knows I'm obsessed with Adam, like all members in my family do) because he reminds her of Adam and makes her remember Adam. I decided to accept that as a positive statement on her part indicating she liked Adam. I'm always glad to hear someone say they like/love Adam! I hate to admit it but she was one of the AI voters on Season 8 that voted for Kris Allen in the finale! She really liked Adam too but Kris was her guy! Nonetheless, I gift her all the Adam CD's (FYE, Acoustic Live EP etc.)She also went to see the GNT concert in Costa Mesa with me and loved it! Her favorite song ....Fever!!! She loves it and plays it all the time. Anyway, sorry to ramble on like this but I have a hard time when comparisons are made to Adam 'cause there just is no one as good as Adam and I doubt there ever will be for a very, very long time. Good luck to all the contestants though. It should be an interesting season.
CT

There's way more to Adam Lambert than the range of his voice. It's also the tone, which James unfortunately doesn't have. I think James is a raw talent, but I do like that the judges decided to let the people decide. I don't think they wanted to eliminate him as it would look like discrimination because of his conditions. I think there were some better talent that was cut loose, but it's really difficult to tell on television. You really miss something. It's just not the same as seeing them perform. For examply, Kris Allen's voice sounded really weak, but when I saw him at the Idol concert, he had surprisingly good vocal strength. Same with Scott McEntyre. And Adam blew me away. It will be what it will be. Talent is crazy this season. Lots of ethnicity that was missing previously. It's a delight to see the diversity. Not missing Simon one bit. I look back on his comments regarding Adam, and he was just mean at times. Not necessary to be honest. Honesty doesn't equal mean.

He sounds like Adam but I can't bash him

Glitzylady you said perfectly what I was feeling. James does have talent but needs to focus on not screaming so much. He is not as polished as Adam, but def has talent. He is from Santa Cruz which is near me so I am rooting for him though he is not my fav. (I really love Pia.) I actually went shopping in Santa Cruz yesterday (got a gosh darn parking ticket-forgot to feed the meter-LOL!) My son just told me that another of the top 24- Stefano - (the one that survived a bad accident)is the couzin of a friend of his. I am loving the judged-especially Steven Tyler. Jlo is great too.

daydreamin

James version of a Change is Gonna Come was a little painful for me and tough not to compare him with Adam, who really put his stamp on it. I think with some training James can be very successful, but he needs to find his own voice and it seemed so soon to sing a song that Adam had so magnificently done. Tourettes syndrome is a neurological disorder that is now well managed with medication to control the physical aspects of tics and vocal outbursts. My neices son has Asbergers and functions very well, but has no filter and says exactly what he's thinking, which isn't always the ideal situation! [ Someone else that we know and love also has a filter deficit! haha] James seems to be doing well with his double whammy and he is talented and has had a tough time. I hope he will get a break and Idol will be a positive platform for him, as was for Adam. I really like Lauren Alaina and the girl from Columbia,[Pia?]I feel so sorry for the ones sent home.Wish they all could win! funbunn40

Ok haven´t heard him before haha.. something is definately missing "Heart" couldn´t skip this though of him just screaming through it ( somewhat painfully) it was more like showing off " i can do it and loud" no feeling it coming from heart.. torturing :(

Wondering what kind of tourette he has.. it can be very mild as autistic spectrum is very wide.. just a tic in eyebrown can be diagnosed as tourette.. under stress ( like chatting with judges ) those tics are usually seen.. couldn´t spot it though... maybe i should watch again.

Here is a little background re James Durbin for those interested, from an article in the Santa Cruz Patch...: by author Brad Kava

Twitter link to full article is: http://bit.ly/eIA6Um

In a late-night Facebook interview, his former teacher, Dale Ockerman [formerly of the Doobie Brothers], had this to say:

"I love James; he's a great cat, and one of my favorite singers.

"I've worked with Mike McDonald, Bill Champlin, Steve Marriott, Richard Bryant—some of the best of the best, and he's up there with those musicians, a unique soulful powerful voice; he seems to not have any limits.

"James was the first scholarship recipient at my Musicscool. He was sponsored by Kids on Broadway and the Lundbergs, bless their hearts. He picked up keyboards, guitar, songwriting, all with such a healthy appetite and intense concentration, it was a joy to be around. Last time I saw him, we were doing blues harp stuff, and within 30 seconds, he was bending, isolating notes, not an easy thing to do.

"I don't think it's easy. I just think he works really hard, really fast, and he has a pulse on what sounds good to an audience, or to a group of musicians.

"Every performance he's done singing with the White Album Ensemble, he gets standing ovations, people who saw Guitarmy—our Zeppelin band with 10 student guitarists, Dave Tucker on drums and Tiran Porter on bass—said it sounded scarily like a Zeppelin record, on stage.

"I was a big fan of his late dad, the virtuoso bassist Willie Durbin. We had some very funky jams, back in the day."

Great insight Glitzylady. Thanks for the article. Gives him more credence I think.

funnbunn40, I'm with you, I wish they all could win. Definitely there is much talent there.

daydreamin

Nope! No no no. Nooooo...
Sanni

There's only one screamer for me ..... BB! :D

My Adam was the real deal - his personality and charisma were way bigger than James. James can sing but to be a star you need self-esteem. He needs to stop copying Adam and get his own style - but I'm sorry I can't see how you can get a big personality from day to day.

James needs to carve out his own niche. There are thousands of songs to choose from and I hope in the future that James chooses totally different songs than Adam did and puts his own spin on them. I appreciate and applaud the amount of challenge he has had to overcome. I wish him well.

With so much focus on a contestant's back story, on their "condition" and "hardships," the show should be called "American Sob Story."

The truly "unfortunate" thing about James is that he has no originality, no heart, no finesse. He is all ego. And, for the record, Adam never screams. He flawlessly hits high notes.

How can anyone forget Danny Gokey trying to outdo Adam at the end of "Dream On?" It would be tragic if it wasn't so hilarious.

"Nope! No no no. Nooooo..."

This

Oh, noooo please noooo!!! I couldn´t even listen to A Change Is Gonna Come to the end. It was awful. He had no control of his voice, he missed the high notes, he was trying way too hard. It was difficult to hear what song it was. He is a fan of Adam, but he has a long way to go.
I don´t know if I´m going to watch AI this season. It´s way too much crying and sobbing and sentimental shit that has nothing to do with the singing competition.

Eva

Pia has a lovely voice. :-)

James is obnoxious and cocky and his high notes are just so awful! He is screaming and not even near Adam's range. I find him irritating! Wish I could just punch his face!

Sorry a big No....he's not even close...It hurts my head when he screams.

And when did AI become a soap opera...I thought it was about musical talent.

They have the same kind of ears?


Yeah, a Big NO.

James reeks of insecurity and desperation to me rather than cocky. I hope he can find his own style . Adam's voice and charisma is unique and one of a kind. For James' sake, he'd best not try to sing the songs Adam chose.

The one and only Lord Screamanova is the only one for me. :)

I think James has a nice clear voice and sing really good. Of course, cannot be compared with Adam, Adam is in a different level. Idol should only about singing and talent, but it never does. Hope this boy learn something out of it, and I am nor sure if he can handle all this madness, not everybody can. People that are different, they think different, just like our Adam. Just Good luck James.

James doesnt remind me of Adam at all. Yes James can hit the high notes, but he cant see to have any consistancy to his songs. He goes for the high notes because he can and this to me will get irritating real fast, if he isnt able to sing a song with more fluidity. I am hoping that with training he can learn this. He mentioned Adam on AI tonight saying that he went for the high notes just like Adam Lambert..dont think that was wise.Change is Gona Come was just bad. At this point, James is just a screamer to me.Time will tell how good he is.

James did not sing well in Change Gonna Come, too much wailing and then turn into screaming in a minute. But he has some talent if he made the arrangement in this song himself and I like it.

His pre-idol While my Guitar Gently Weeps rendition was fantastic. He is capable of control, whether he's doing his best performances on idol I'm not so sure. I haven't seen yesterday's episode so I can't comment on whether he actually said he was trying to emulate Adam or not, but if he is he'll perform much better if he tries to emulate James Durbin.

Nobody can deny that James has potential. Let us all not forget that Adam Lambert had a vocal coach from a young age, which is why he has the control that he does. James is raw, untrained talent, and while I agree it does not reach Adam's level, considering the conditions he struggles with and the non-existent training he's pretty damn good.

With respect to "screaming," also don't forget the genres Adam and James ascribe to are different. Crisp vocals are the centrefold of musical theatre, not so much in rock. Just look at Steve Tyler's held high notes. I'd call that screaming too.

Personality wise James and Adam have totally different personalities. If James does have a recording career, his musical direction will never be in competition with Adam's. I kinda feel sorry for the kid that he'll always be living in Adam's shadow like some sort of younger sibling.

His While My Guitar Gently Weeps performance:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AA_aRNm0YdM

Correction, he has had training. My bad.

A Change Is Gonna Come is my Adam-fix. I had to listen to it every day for a while (the AI version). The roller coaster gliding note is so chilling and heartbreaking and this guy has nothing like that. He keeps screaming in those high notes all the time, no nuances or variation. If those high notes should affect you it should come from soft and low and go up getting stronger. I don´t know if I´m making any sence at all, but I think Adam is in his own league and to compare this guy to him is just pathetic.

Eva

Um....NO!

If anything he is payback to all the idiots that said Adam was too screechy! Karma is a bitch you morons!

HE screams way too much and I think he is specifically trying to be like Adam, which I consider terrible cuz he doesn't have his own style. But i actually like his version of Change is Gonna Come A LOT. Maybe even more than Adam's. James made it more rock and roll. And his lack of control is actually a rock and roll standard. It may be irritating at times (or hard to here) but I'd really see him in a band. He would be awesome at concerts. But Adam is perfect and controlled. James doesn't come close.
Poland Loves Adam

I used to work with autistic children. James has a disorder which is a high functioning form of autism. This disorder effects the ability to socially interact and understand the world around you. James obviously can function pretty well, but the increasing pressure of AI could really get to him. No his vocals are no way near Adams!! The fact that he chose Change to sing is an example of his thought process. He is trying to emulate Adam and don't know if he will be able to carve out his own niche in the show. This is about finding an international superstar. How hard it would be for James to handle all that comes with that type of success. I wish him well because he will have a lot of obstacles. I am sorry , not trying to sound like I know everything about autism,no one can fully understand it. What I do know is there will only be one Adam Lambert!!!

I miss seeing Adam on AI. And hearing Durbin sings cures that longing a bit. Sure Durbin is not Adam, and he lacks of super star charisma that Adam has. But I quite like the way he screams at the end of the songs, and think of it as a tribute to Adam :)

Like a few others I thought that James handicap was not physical but a lack of training, that if he had the benefits that Adam had of a good teacher he would be in control of his voice.
Then I saw he did have vocal training...that surprised me. Now I'm wondering if he will listen to the vocal coaches available at Idol.

His voice is like a wild bronco, all over the place, he needs it tamed. He needs to get Adam out of his head and cool it and find James.

Good Luck James..............JAK

He will get frustrated trying to sound like Adam. Hope he just tries to be himself. I think the ladies have this one,but I wish him well.

I DONT like it that he tried to sing Adams A change Is Gonna Come!! >:( NO 1 touches any of Adams song,,,,not voting for HIM! hes not original just Copying!!! KATIE

There is only one Adam. It will be really hard to ever come close to his talent.

That said James has some nice raw talent and if they help him along with some vocal coaching he should do really well.

If i will answer the question honestly, i would say yes he reminds me of Adam only because of the high notes that he has been doing and that is all there is to it. Too early to tell if there will be anything else they will have in common but i doubt it very much. I would rather that James Durbin create his own style and identity to earn the respect of the people in the music industry. Let us not forget that Adam was inspired by David Cook but he did present himself differently. I appreciate the fact that James refers to Adam but he must develop his own style and that would be the best strategy for him. He must never commit the mistake of copying anyone for that matter so that he can eventually blossom into another great singer that he aspires to be. I am thankful that Adam serves as an inspiration to a lot of young artists and i hope that they also remember his many advices to the contestants in AIS9. With the help of the vocal coaches that AI provides, i really hope that they could work on the potentials of James and the rest of the contestants.

@glitzylady thanks so much for the link and i've already seen that video. James Durbin seems to be a talented young man and i really wish him all the best in this competition. I think the key is believing in yourself and being original as much as possible.

@daydreamin and @funbunn40 i'm just thrilled that you also like PIA :-) I've no plans of watching but couldn't say no when hubby invites me to watch with him. My only consolation is that i get to see the gigantic picture of our Diamond Boy in the opening credits and i would have that silly grin on my face all the time. I guess AI has no choice but to acknowledge genuine talents.

I wish the AIS10 contestants the best and i hope that they all make the most out of this rare opportunity for them to shine in their own respective ways.

Well, Durbin is interesting, but I swear he sings out of pitch. I was very sorry to see the husky boy--is his name JC?--having to leave the show. That little boy, is he only 15, has a truly beautiful voice. My kids were like GO JC and they were disappointed, as was I, when he was cut. The only thing I can say is he is young enough to try again.

@Bing
I have to say I too get a HUGE thrill at seeing Adam up there with the winners and the best at the beginning of AI, and also involuntarily get all "tingly" and excited and giddy when that American Idol Theme plays..it is such a conditioned response after Adam's season and I will never be able to shake it. I have suggested to other "Adam" friends that AI really needs to respectfully retire their current theme song and find a new one because as far as I am concerned that is now "Adam's Theme" for me. I feel that thrill all over again each time I hear it.

They all give their heart and soul up there in a grand effort to make it to the top 24. Not an easy thing to do. The show was full of emotion last night for those who were sent home and for those continuing on. I wish them all the best. It's damn hard to make it in the music industry and I wish them all the best.

I have never thought of Adam as screaming. I have always thought he hit really high notes with a lot of power and control. It sounds pleasing to the ear and doesn't feel forced. It feels like mastery.

James, on the other hand, sounds more like a scream. It doesn't please my ears as much.

I don't think there is a comparison to Adam on any level. James needs to find who he is. I agree that to try to emulate Adam will be his downfall. He needs to show who James is. Ultimately, the people vote and select. Time will tell.

I am surprised he compared himself to Adam. I don't know if that was a smart move on his part. I see a wannabe Adam vs. an I am James Durbin.

I wish him well on his journey.

Also, I must say that overall this thread is expressing opinions in a respectful manner. A couple who are a little nasty, but on the whole opinions without being hurtful. I am likin this. :)

I did not watch AI after Adam, just watch James vids because of the buzz, he sound good voice with some talent and a very sobering story. Then I go and dig deeper about him, not so sober anymore. Only watch if Adam is on.

Adam Lambert cannot be copied, God threw away the mold!
The contestant, J. Durbin sounded kareokee to me.
Let's see what he can during country week, hmmm...
His "A Change Is Gonna Come", well I had to turn it off. Durbin was off key for sure, & no soul in it!
One more thing I would like to add, Adam has MAGIC!!! A MAGIC like no other!
ps. wouldn't it be the shits if the haters of Adam Lambert schemed out to make sure this guy won AI10, after finding out all about this comparison crap between Adam Lambert & Durbin?
be yourself Durbin, just be yourself!
Mwah! K

He obviously copying Adam. No originality. He will be kicked out of the competition early if he continues this. If not, we can vote for Scotty to kick JD out.

He seems like a good guy;However his voice is strong but not fine tuned like Adams. I beleive with some training he could be good. I see him as a lead singer in a band like Daughtrey but not as solo artist. I do not want to dis this guy because I think his heart is in the right place and really in life who can put someone down for trying so hard. I don't like to hate on someone like they are a threat to Adam. That is just silly. Remember the media created this comprision thing not James or Adam. Anyone who has the B---s to stand up and sing in front of those judges has earned my respect. Now let's see how he does in the real competition when things get a little dicey. I have already picked a few of my favorites. He really isn't one of them. I think the charisma plays a big part in alot of how people feel about this choice. So proud of this fan base who feel this guys enthusiam to make something of himself. We are loyal and true to Adam;however we have to be careful not to treat this guy like people have treated Adam from time to time. That makes us like the people we feel hurt Adam.

@7:00 Every word!!!

Me too, @7:00 you said it all!

there's no comparing James with the Glam God. Adam Lambert is a one man wrecking crew when it comes to stage performance and vocals. I don't see anyone having the IT factor like Adam. They have to really bring it, if they even want mentioned along side his name. I call it as I see it!

@glitzylady Thank you for your article. Have few minutes at work to read it and few more comments. I think James has girlfriend, cause I saw pretty girl who met him outside. But may be this is his wife.
The song was "Change is Gonna Come", you absolutely right ladies, my mistake. But I wasn't impressed James version of this song. It seems like he wants to move like Adam, which wasn't a good idea for him. And James wanted to sound louder. He just slightly changed Adam versions of this song, but the only difference was that he was screaming but not singing.
Sure, he needs to get a chance, but they sent home two boys who were much more talented than James:(
Certainly, this is just my opinion and boys like James need their chance.
delilah5

They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but if James is trying to imitate Adam, he will not get very far on AI. He has to find his own voice, his own style and build on that. Too much screaming from him. There is only one Adam Lambert, an individual who is talented, articulate, intelligent, charismatic and so sexy. I agree that James would make a good front man for a band such as Daughtry. Remember he is also very young and with his medical issues,young wife?? and baby, James will need a lot of guidance if he wants to have a lasting career in the music industry. Adam set the bar so high during season 8, that no one in my mind will ever reach that degree of musical and visual perfection. I wish all the contestants well and know how difficult it will be to get into the top 10. Let's hope this season is a lot better than the lackluster contestants of season 9. You don't hear or see much of Lee Dewyze or Crystal anywhere at all since that season ended.

Adam sings with complete control, depth, warmth and purity to his voice. He never strains or has to reach painfully for a note. And though he uses falsetto when he chooses, he doesn't use it as a crutch to reach a note. Adam does NOT SCREAM. Even when he puts that rock/roll rasp in his voice, he NEVER SCREAMS or misses the note. Durbin isn't even in the same league. Has raw talent, but no control, no charisma, no warmth. I wish the judges would quit giving some of these contestants such good feedback. It's not fair to them. I don't think Durbin will go too far unless people jump on his backstory bandwagon. The winner of AI should NOT be the one with the best backstory. It should be the wonn with the best voice and vocal presentation. It ain't Durbin, that's for sure. I like some of the girls this year, more than the boys. I predict that a girl will win, and I think we're due for a female winner.

No one can even compare with Adam. First of all, it looks like James is trying to copy Adam. It doesn't seem genuine whatsoever, plus he's not a nice guy at all. How can these even compare? Geez. Adam has vocals like no one else out there, is gorgeous beyond compare, and is a kind, thoughtful, smart person. The only thing James does is scream, and Adam just had a range, he wasn't screaming. Oh, brother...hope he gets voted off asap. Sorry, he bugs me a lot.

Why am I even commenting on this stuff! Everyone must be so darn bored!

Adam is a true star, not just because of his vocal talent but because of the person he is. Although James may be a talented singer, comparisons are really not warranted here.

I wish James the best but he is very cocky. Even if I voted on AI (which I will never do again) I wouldn't vote for him. I'm wondering if people will vote for him as a "sympathy" vote, similar to Gokey? I enjoy hearing some of the backstories on AI but when they run it in the ground it becomes very annoying. After all, it is a singing competition. Sound familiar?

The show is trying to bring back the excitement of Season 8. Remember their were lots of buzz in the media when Adam competed. They tried to do it last season with Alex Lambert and Sibhan Magnus. This shows that even AI is missing Adam, IMO. Will see how JD will do in this competition. I think they are trying to stir us Glamberts to invest and watch this show by voting. JD is good but he doesn't come any close to Adam. I wish him luck!

Adam never had a chance for a real "back story"

We never heard about how he was treated in life and how he is still treated and still he gave his all and was so positive about everything and always supported Kris...Adam is a class act...Adam came prepared and was surprised each week as he went forward.....He will always be my true American Idol....

BTW...I don't miss Simon...I lost all respect for him when he sided with that country singer (was it Randy Travis?)on Ring of Fire and then instead of making a comment on a song Adam sang...he commented about his long coat..WTF
altho since Simon has said Adam should had been the winner.....it was time for Simon to go...he was playing to the sponsors

As Adam said, this competition is about singing, nothing else. I agree the show is leaning towards being a soap opera, maybe just to get people interested. In the real world, very few of these people will get ahead in the music business - they are amateurs in a reality show - why is everyone so worried when they are cut - not even some of the winners of the show go on to huge careers.
Of course, our Adam is the notable exception!

Thank you for the link anon @4:35.

Nice to see him have more control. Hollywood Week was a mess for him.

If you go to that link and read all the comments, you'll see comments from him - saying he also tried out for A.I.8 - Adam's year. He also said he can sing higher than Adam (though someone corrected him) and it sounded like he thinks he is the same as/as good as Adam. So I'll just have to watch and see how he does.

I really like seeing a thread of thoughtful, articulate comments, and this is a good one! And, just like the rest of you well-wishers, I wish him well.

:)
Sweetie

I just hear AI is going to have online voting this year and your allowed to vote 50 times via facebook. Big mistake! I thought they were going to fix that after all the b--t from adam's season. Anyways, I love lauren alaina and pia. James, no comparison to adam whatsoever.

Cut the poor kid some slack. Good God. Nobody is treading on Adam's toes, and if he wants to channel a little Lambert, who cares. I don't think his version of ACIGC was anything like Adam's. Adam is not the only singer who hits high notes and is all over the range. I hope this kid does well and finds his complete styleand grows in this venture. And by the way, you don't die from Aspergers. It's an affliction, not a disease. Many people live normal lives with it.

The whole AI Show is really ridiculous when you think about it. But it did bring us Adam and for that I am eternally greatful. I cannot imagine my life now without Adam in it (scary thought!) I do hate the fact that it is more of an entertainment show focusing so much on the drama (how many times did they show Jenn breaking down) and we, like fools played right into that drama when our Idol didn't win and Kris did (high ratings for them). So now, with two years passing, I am much more careful about getting too caught up in the drama of the show and praise any and all contestants for having the guts to get up there and reach for their dreams. I don't believe there will ever be another Adam. He is one of a kind. Thank goodness for that. To compare him to "anyone" else is pointless. We love him for who he is, his amazing talent, charizma, charm, etc, etc, etc, etc... But as a parent, I know that we should always support our kids and encourage them to follow their dreams. That's what these kids are doing on that show. Let's at least give them a hand for giving it their all. It has to be hard going up there in front of those judges. Even Adam had his moments, and he already had experience. Imagine the pressure up there! So, as much as I do despise the show. It brought us Adam and yes, for that, we should all be greatful. All the best to the Season 10 contestants. May they stay confident, strong and never give up...

First...people...refresh your memory...Ask yourself...does Durbin have Adam's pure tone and range and a falsetto to die for...uhhhh noo....all I have seen and I have watched this year from tryouts...is Durbin doing a high pitched rock scream...yeah...he can do that...but it is not pure...it is not controlled...His rendition last night of A Change is gonna Come (obviously copying Adam and trying to match up) was really like fingernails on a chalk board...Pull up his rendition ...then listen to Adam's in the final and at the CA concert in December...absolutely no comparison...Plus to beat it all...Durbin has a really bad attitude...he is dissing Adam online...(youtube)...saying he can sing higher...and better...uhhh nooottt....and he calls women whores...said he referred to women as whores in songs he wrote...He says he is glam..I do not see that at all..more grunge...more punk...no glam or class in this act...and he dissed some of the singers in Hollywood week...He needs a serious reality check...Yes he has some disabilities...but that does not give him the right to be obnoxious. You want high and good tone...I think the guy with light brown hair who wore it back in a pony tail during group night who did a high falsetto was much better...I also like the bearded guy who is really original and creative and funny...

if james durbin was awar of the passionate voting patterns of glambert,he would realize copying adam lambert is NOT a smart move. (AGirlLikeMe)

After reviewing James' YouTube songs, I've come away with a new appreciation for his talent. If he gets some vocal training of the caliber that Adam has had, this young man could be quite good. Otherwise, he could abuse his voice. I wonder if he'll do the Beatles - 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' on AI. It could be the highlight of the season. James did do WLL but not on Idol (that song now belongs to Adam and only Adam - hate to even hear others do it, including Led Zep). James' Star Spangled Banner was also very interesting (I'm still waiting for Adam to score one of the big gigs for his SSB).
The judges have more heart this year and it's bringing out the best in the contestants. Under the old regime, any mistake and you were gone. I agree with everyone that has commented about the 'soap opera' aspect. They're going to give us a formula - half girls, half boys, percentage of blacks, a sob story, some diversity, one cowboy (sob, I wanted JWS, also)- I think you get the picture.
Adam's facial expressions at the end of each performance and the judges' reactions are priceless and are the main reason he has such a loyal fan base.

James may just be getting Adam a ton of new fans,by bringing up comparisons between the two. Just think of all the millions of Idol fans who never heard Adam sing. They just may now check him out. I say free publicity for AFL during this time of making album 2 is not such a bad thing.

So they compare this copycat to our adam? Biggest mistake ever!! He has nothing but trying to be like adam. Do he know that copy adam is not good for him? Try to be someone not yourself is not a good way to success. Sorry james but when you chose to imitate our true idol, you made the worst decision. You can sing "A change is gonna come" but adam sang it PERFECTLY. So, just be yourself, ok. If you don't, you may win "American idiot", lol.

Lolo

Nooooo way on earth he's like Adam. Are you kidding! There's only ONE Adam. James screams, Adam sings.

The one thing I dont like are the sad backstories,its called american idol manipulation.Hopefully he will carve his own nitche otherwise it could hurt him in the long run.

No a thousand times no..no way..no how..

No one else like Adam Lambert!! Adam is the most talented and charismatic performer ever!! Don't like to try emulate to Adam....AI lost all credibility and transparence since season 8, when Adam lost. AI's production should stop looking Adam wannabe.....because he is unique and superlativity and purity of his voice and his presence stage is can not be emulated by anyone

Adam is getting super ,glowing press after AI and James Durbin.

James sounds like a snarky, immature kid. He shows no class if he's dissing other people. He is delusional if he compares his singing abilities to Adam's. Just shows how clueless he is. ADAM WAS HUMBLE DURING HIS WHOLE TIME ON AI. He was far and away the best but ws still HUMBLE and never dissed anybody. Can't wait for James to be gone.

Adam Lambert destroyed AI, why keep watching it?
They should put AI on some kid's channel like Disney or Nickelodeon.
Adam put excitement into that show , even people who didn't vote for him were probably looking forward to each week to see what he would come up with! & Adam just got more exciting every time, the show became an addiction for me. But no AI for me since!!! MWAH! K

I love what Tyler and Lopez is bringing to Idol this season. I don't even notice that Simon guy being gone. I'm predicting a guy winner this year, but James isn't doing it for me. Adam Lambert is an league all of his own and making his mark among the greats.

VEVO has Sleepwalker from Adam's GNT DVD on.. OMG crying it's so great

9:25 I love adam to

After Lambert, AI won't be the same. He set the bar so high, that it will be so hard to get over it. I also think the guys have a slight advantage over the women this year. Danny Gokey did say that Adam changed American Idol and I find that as a huge compliment.

No Way! NO comparison! The two names shouldn't be mentioned in the same sentence. Who would even post this? I think it's insulting to Adam.

Grrrrr...I've been watching this season since it started and the minute I saw that guy I was annoyed. The thing is, the guy SUCKS in comparison, yet they continue to carry him through, I guess in hopes that people will vote for him just because he seemingly idolizes Adam. If Idol was going to pick an Adam reincarnate, they could have at LEAST picked someone worthy and capable of following in his footsteps. Everytime I hear him sing it drives me banana sandwhich. And those "screams", if you watch Adam do it, he goes up through his range smoothly, peaks, and comes back down clean and smooth, he doesn't just interject a random screech every two lines of a song and hope that it sounds good. It's carefully crafted and his music is punctuated with those notes instead of being centered around it. Not a chance in HELL does this guy even come close. I will not be voting for him, in fact, I hope he gets voted off very quickly, because compared to the other singers, he's mediocre at best.

-PassionN2010

Are you kidding me? Not even close! Just because he TRIES to hit those really high notes? He is nothing like Adam, in any way. And I think it is sad that he tries to copy him rather than develope his own style and identity. He may be a nice enough kid, but personally I find the comparison insulting. JMHO.

I hope Adam reads this forum so that he can see the truly unkind, mean things his so called "fans" are saying about this kid who only wants a chance, the same as Adam did. Adam would be hitting the Twitter universe again to scold his so called fans, the same way he did last week when the "fans" were dissing Tommy and other entertainers in their so called obsessive love of Adam. I can only see Adam, shaking his head in dismay at the things said about this young contestant. Shame on you people.

Adam can sing high notes. James can sing high notes. The end. No other comparisons.

Adam...get to work on that second CD...I MISS YOU.......

Apparently, JD auditioned for AI8 but it didn't work out for him. He likes Adam's KISS performance. Go to the link and watch the video of him:

http://www.americanidol.com/videos/season_10/road_to_hollywood/james_durbin/

okay, i'm going to seem heartless and cruel (and i'm really a nice person...and a softie) but these forced emotional bits that AI does is really a turn off. And no, I'm not watching the show. I quit after Adam. I just want to preseve that year in my brain for the rest of my life. :)

To 11:19 - dont' worry, Adam does not read these forums. And if he did, he would admit (in a nice way..) that James probably does not have a big chance of making it in the real world of the music business. Only a few make it and they are REALLY good and also have marketable charisma. (like Adam)
These reality contestants put themselves in the position to be publically judged and then we get upset when that is exactly what happens. Most have an overinflated idea of their own talent and the TV network just uses them to make a show.
Altho I love Idol because it gave us Adam, I would like to see a return to less reality shows and more real actors doing real acting in quality stories and getting paid real wages.

I really like James and i hope he does well but his voice is no-where near as great as Adams!!! But i do see some similarities!!!

Adam Lambert was to good for American Idol and really made alot of other singers after him look kareoke. His swagger and vocal delivery were stunning. I wouldn't want to be a singer and have to compete with Adam on any level. He is that damn good!

I really hope James doesn't sing Whole Lotta Love. I would really feel bad for him if he even attempts that song. Adam Lambert has made that song his very own. NO ONE sings that song but Zeppelin and Adam Lambert.

Hell No......He's nothing like Adam Lambert.

I'm just going to repost what I said on Facebook about this issue: James really is just awful. I don't like to be mean, but really. What are the judges hearing?! Unlike Adam, his high notes are not actually on pitch, he has no technique or tone to back up that volume, and there's no musicality to the way he alters the melody. It's all completely random and all over the place, not to mention just grating to the ears. He does not know what he's doing. GAHH. That's my rant. lol

James Durban has some talent, and range, but it isn't controlled and it isn't even and it isn't even close to the artistry that Adam Lambert has. He does have power, but needs to find his own style and get control of his voice so he can actually manage the sounds that come out. But please you are not Adam Lambert and shouldn't try to be - needs to be himself. Take voice lessons!!!

no. are you kidding? seriously?

Well James ...you set yourself up for this...by

comparing yourself to Adam...if you knew music

you better listen to Adam singing and compare

it to your voice...no contest.......your only

hope is to start being YOURSELF.....your no

Adam Lambert.........Good Luck to all....glad

to see some talent this year....

I have to revise what I said earlier, I still don't he should be compared to Adam Lambert, but I have missed most of the shows and just watched his last performance before top 24 picked and he was pretty good. He has a lot coming out of him but not as controlled as AL. Also, I had forgotten he has Tourettes (sp) and Aspbergers. I have people in my family withe these syndromes and I can tell you to overcome either one of these to sing like he has is pretty amazing. I apologize for saying people have said he is annoying. I wish him well but I do wish he was not trying to be so much like Adam; I think it may hurt him, & actually I don't think it helps AL either. I hope he goes far though.

To imitate Adam is the nicest form of flattery. That said, I do not get any reference except he screams a lot. Adam used the high notes to get noticed and stand apart. He toned it way down for GNT. In a couple of weeks half of this number will be gone and I am predicting the young blond bombshell (Can't remember her name) and the guy who sings country are at least going to be in the top four if not win it. Will not put any Vegas book on my predictions as I am always wrong.

He does not remind me of Adam. Just because someone has a higher range does not mean he is a great singer. He cannot touch Adams amazing vocals. Most of the time when James hits the high notes, he is off key, at least that is what I have observed during the Idol shows. He was awful in Hollywood week when he did the Queen song. He needs much more practice to learn how to control his vocals. Adam does not scream, he sings. Adam can go low, mid, high and sound beautiful and he can wail. Adam's voice gives the listener goose bumps. Most of the time, James loses control when he tries to go where Adam goes effortlessly. I also do not see the emotion in James. Perhaps he will improve as the competition goes on, but he will never be as good as Adam, IMO. KLM

I just went back and listened to Adam's performance of A Change is Going to Come from the finale. His emotion, his control, his ability to pull the listener in with his amazing vocals is simply not to be matched. I agree with Anon 3:27 - Adam's voice gives the listener goosebumps. I wish JD well but NO, there is simply no comparison.

I'm with everybody on here u can't compare durbin with adam because adam has the best male voice in the industry that being said I kind of like durbin and I am rooting for him

Adam is Adam and no one can compare to him. He is unreal and his own super star. I am obsessed and I can not say that for many artist. No comparison can be made.

as soon as James D finished his audition---the first thing i thought was-----he has a lot of adam's range and power-----the guy is GOOD----he can't compare with adam professionally--he hasn't had the experience--so far--he's got my vote !!!!!

OT..Madonna is having Oscar Party...I wonder if Monte or Adam will be invited??????
Would be nice exposure....

8:05 AM " Adam never had a chance for a real back story"
I agree with what was said by that anon. I will answer the question at top of thread. Does Durbin remind me of Adam? No

P.S.

I am posting without reading the upthread at all. Sorry if I repeat anything anyone else has said.

This year AI has the best talent ever, imo, based on their performances so far. At the end of the season there will be a new American Idol. There will NEVER be another Adam Lambert.

Oh give me a break - the ability to scream and shriek and warble a bit, does not an Adam Lambert make - remember what Simon said over and over, Adam is the "whole package". I'm sure James is a sweet guy, he will have a run at recording perhaps and maybe a nitch but the comparison???? Just not there.

@Anon Feb.25 at 5:28PM - i also heard a couple of pretty good voices but was just not that interested at all so i couldn't remember their names. Most are females, though there is one male contestant as well. I like Pia but i'm afraid that her voice would only fit certain types of songs, i hope she can prove me wrong. Compared to AIS9 the top 24 this year looks way better and more exciting. Now the next thing we will find out is if they have the versatility, originality and the IT that is required to stay in the game because so far what we've seen are just good voices. As many have already reiterated, you've got to be the whole package.

I also think that AIS10 looks good enough and I totally agree with you that there will never be another ADAM MITCHEL LAMBERT. A vocal masterclass like Adam who comes with the complete package only comes once in a lifetime. Copying Adam will not serve anybody well simply because he is one of a kind and is absolutely in a league of his own as everyone has already said.

@Anon thanks for your post :)

I know we are all Adam Lambert fans and we think he cannot be duplicated, but give this kid a break he is good , and who said you are suppose to have training before you go on the show, yes he is raw so what. This is a compliment to Adam. Did any of you ever think that Adam might be this kids Idol.

I'm laughing hysterically at the derogatory comments about James Durbin's singing style. They are the same things that many, many people said about Adam Lambert when he was on Idol. Think about it. I still say Adam would be ashamed of some of you here. Your irrational obsession has over taken your common sense and compassion. Adam would embrace young James in this competition and cheer him on. Too bad some of you can't be as generous. He's inspired a kid, and I think he would be flattered.

Not at all. He is nothing like Adam. But the producers keep desperately hoping for another Adam, so they keep referencing our Mr. Lambert on the show, just as they did last season with that other girl who screeched out the high notes (whose name I've already forgotten, yikes!).

As for this new kid Durbin, he obviously has overcome a lot of issues, with the Tourette's and Aspberger's. It's impressive that he's able to keep things under control, and that he's come as far as he has. But he does not even remotely have Adam's trained, beautiful voice or poise. He's still just a wannabe, unfortunately. There really is no comparison.

Is it just me, or do the judges this season seem to be WAY too soft on out-of-tune contestants who can't even hit the right notes? Really makes me wish for Simon. He really called it as he heard it, and the contestants had to achieve actual excellence in order to get any accolades from him. This season, any kind of screeching seems to get kudos. It's kind of disappointing.

I don't think any singer should get on American Idol and try to be another artist other than themselves. It just won't work. I don't know if James is trying to be another Adam or he just sings that way. Adam Lambert is one of a kind in his vocal and stage presence, so I wouldn't attempt trying to be like him or you will just get set up for embarressment.

Adam knew when he auditioned for American Idol that he could back his shit up! He took that stage every week and delivered mind boggling performances. He played to the cameras and with the audience and looked like he had been singing professionally for years. I think for this season of AI to be successful, they need to find another contestant with the IT factor or the show might just be ending. Adam Lambert changed the show forever!

James will never be able to withstand the grueling schedules that ADAM has since he was on AI8 ... especially with his two afflictions .. he's simply not cut from the same cloth as ADAM & certainly doesn't have the CHARISMA that it takes to make it in the entertainment world of today. I don't think he would be able to take the PRESSURE of the paparazzi for one thing. He has a good voice but he's not the next American Idol ... there is NO comparison to ADAM .... ADAM is KING of GLAM ROCK!! ... JMO

tess4ADAM

I agree with the previous statement about the judges selecting some contestants who don't seem to hit the right notes. Are we all listening to the same person or is it different being at home watching it on tv vs. being in the studio or large auditorium and the acoustics are not the same? And some of those backstories make it look like a soap opera, so let's give that person another chance. I thought they were looking for the next superstar, the next individual who can have a hit record and sell albums. Out of the top 24, is there really one in there who will be able to achieve musical success? For me, Adam Lambert set the bar so high during season 8, that everyone since then pales by comparison. What do you hear of Kris Allen, Lee DeWyze and Crystal Bowerson lately? They truly need someone special this season to bring the "spark" back to Idol and I don't know if they will find it.

Adam should be a guest in the audience this season and give his opinion on who he likes. I bet he will go with the girls. I see a few guys and a few girls who have a chance at being the next AI champion. Adam likes the show when the top 12 sing and so then he will make his choice known.

Check out JLo's facial expression at 4:35 on second video. LOL!


Michael Slezak's take on JD's last night's performance:

"...As if James’ presumptuous self-comparison to season 8′s wickedly talented runner-up wasn’t bad enough, he then went and took one of Adam’s signature Idol songs — Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come” — and violently tore it limb from limb till there was nothing left of it but a bloody, quivering pile of unrecognizable notes. J.Lo made her “I smell something bad” face. Ryan, meanwhile, issued an unmistakeable threat: “We now turn James over to you.”

I think James needs to choose songs that he can make his own rather than imitating Adam. I wish him the best but there is no comparison with Adam's complete package...like Paula would say... apples and oranges...

He is going to fail if he trys to imitate Adam. Maybe if he changes things up a bit he will stay in for a while. He can sing, but I don't see him a winner. Idol seems to try to show us actual talent this year and is trying to expand the show with props, ect. At this point we all know that most of the contestants are professionals and we just want to see a good contest. Everytime I hear the words AI I think of what a long time it will be before we see Adam preform again. Next Fall seems an eternity.

To those that think that Durbin is cockey,because of him saying he can hit a higher note than Adam, a symptom of Asbergers is saying exactly what you're thinking, unable to filter all thoughts, saying what in their mind they believe is true. It's a very real struggle every day to always speak appropiately without that ability to filter. To have and live with Tourettes is another cross to bear. I hope he won't have to bear criticsim for these affictions that are to a great extent something for which he has no control. I'm sure he already has had to endure his share of bullying. I hope there will be some understanding and no attacks on him personally. I don't see him winning Idol, but I do believe there is a place for him to successfully have a rock career. I do think he has a voice worthy of being supported and trained. He has the goods as demonstrated in the video that anon.4:35 above posted,"When my Guitar Weeps."[I also agree with that post, many good points.]He needs to learn wher and when to hit those glory notes. More is not always more. It should be for effect. Steven Tyler does it very well. He's a rocker and hits those notes, but it's not unpleasant to my ears. It's rock and not piercing. He also has years of experience and has his own persona. That comes with time and experience. I think James is still a work in progress with potential. My personal faves are Laurin and Pia.I was sorry to see the guy towards the end with light brown hair in a pony tail go. It takes alot of guts to get up there. I applaud them all and as heart wrenching as some of these stories are, in the end it needs to be about the talent. I hope James will have a benefactor to groom and develop him. Idol may be the platform for him to be noticed. I just don't see him as the winner. funbunn40

MJ's Blog says that James Durbin is singing 'You Got Another Thing Comin’ by Judas Priest and that he was one of 3 out of the 12 guys singing first that got the best performance critques by the judges.

daydreamin

no way does he remind me of Adam...he should have picked another song...I agree what an insult to even suggest that he reminds us of Adam...please

@ February 25, 2011 8:27 PM
Adam said in an interview that the judges had little to say about who gets selected. It´s the producers choice. The judges are just the face to the public. They are probably going to promote this Durbin kid hoping for a new Lambert. Good luck with that!
@2011 6:55 PM
"common sence and compassion"? Is compassion a reason to vote for someone who can´t hit a note? Than it isn´t a singing competition, it is a soap opera. With voice coaching and training Durbin might be a good singer. He has the range but ACIGC was just awful. He didn´t know what to do with that song. The ones that bashed Adam during AI8 are probably doing the same with Durbin. We who saw and heard Adams brilliance know the difference. Even Slezak who bashed Adam in the beginning, now sees the difference in talent. Why should we be ashamed? For having ears?

Eva

Seem like a very nice kid and a good singer but lacks Adam's confidence, nerve, game-face. Very flattering to Adam tho. And of course AI would love another Adam season.

I'm shaking my head...please don't sing another song that Adam sang...it's useless....be your own person..........there is no one in this bunch who can make this AI8....stop trying and get over it and move on...maybe we will find another star....someone original...

A contestant with "afflictions" should be held to the same standards as the others. It's a marketable backstory but has nothing to do with talent. James isn't even close. I don't "hate" him. I just don't see the vocal talent. Tries too hards, sounds desperate. No vocal control or nuance. Idol pretty much ended after Season 8. Sure hope we see Adam around this spring and summer doing SOMETHING in the public eye. Miss him so much!

Really? My ears hurt. Don't get me wrong, the kid had to overcome a lot, but it doesn't excuse the expectation that he shouldn't be judged on his talent or lack thereof. He /might/ have a good singing voice if he would quit with the screeching and whatnot. I don't think he really has very high upper range. He tends to go off key when he goes there.He needs to be mindful that he /doesn't/ have the vocal training that Adam did, and go get it. I'm sure they AI folks have vocal coaches, and he needs to work with them. The judges will do him more harm than good by not offering him solid advice. If he can't handle being told, "You're screwing up." then he doesn't need to be there.

This kid is all kinds of dreadful right now. I hope for his sake he improves drastically, and keeps some control happening.

MTV take about JD's Thursday night performance:

"First thing's first, let's address the giant Tourettey/Aspergery elephant in the room: James Durbin, whose final audition (and ultimate entry into the Top 24) caused riots on the streets. (And when I say "Caused riots on the streets," I really mean, "Caused MJ's Big Blog to crash.") It was the gasp heard 'round the "Idol" bubble, when Durbin equated his reckless shriek to Adam Lambert's controlled wail. Then he performed "A Change Is Gonna Come" in the style of Lambert's season eight finale tour de force. Except Durbin replaced all of Adam's nuanced restraint and emotional honesty with manic red-faced grandstanding. It was the musical equivalent of Elizbeth Berkley's infamous caffeine pill meltdown from "Saved By the Bell." To paraphrase Jessie Spano, "He's so excited; I'm so scared."

I'll spare readers (and James) the lecture because we all know he struggles with a disorder that I imagine clouds self-awareness. (I truly think he intended his Lambert comparison to be a shout-out to one of his inspirations and not an arrogant dismissal of Adam's otherworldly vocal chops.) Instead, I'll simply urge Durbin to hone in on his own musical identity, and might suggest he avoid any future songs (or musical notes) that might end up with him being compared to a singer so far out of his league."

I can't believe that out of 139 posts, only two posts recognized how cruel and mean these comments are. When people say nasty things about Adam, you guys' heads explode. You go on and on about how mean and cruel and intolerant people can be! No need to ask why people are that way to a nice guy like Adam anymore. To get your answer, simply look in the mirror. The cruelty in their comments are an exact reflection of your own.

I think it would be more cruel to let JD think he is something he is not...most of the comments I think are saying be yourself.

Forget the back stories,,,this is about MUSIC TALENT..J..LO

Idols is a singing competition and there can be good singers besides Adam Lambert. I think some of the fans put an enormous pressure on Adam, when they say he's the best singer and no one can ever top him. I suggest you stop that, before you become a joke. The same fans want him to sing only acoustically, which is boring and only part of the listeners get the point in it anyway. Music is about having fun, not only about notes, unless you sing only classical music.

I don't find the above posts cruel and mean at all, it is just being honest and real in a reality show. Don't you get used to Simon bombard the contestants over the past years on National TV? People can't dealt with cruelty may need to file their complain on national newspaper or FCC broadcast indecency Board instead of coming here.

Yes, AI is about finding the next musical superstar and in doing that, if someone gets hurt in the process by being told the truth about not being good enough, then so be it. I believe that Simon even in his harshness did recognize certain qualities in an individual to make it in the music industry. The judging should be based on vocal talent, but other traits comprise the entire package to win over the public. I think confidence, charisma, and some degree of being humble are also important. The performer and the audience have to connect in some way. Does James have these traits? Do any of the other top 24 possess them? Only the upcoming weeks will tell us as each contestant reveals more of himself/herself musically and visually on stage.

I missed this blog but have to add my 2 cents anyway. I am so peeved they let this fellow thru. He can't sing for toffee. And he is NOOOOOOOOOOO Adam at all. I can't stand his screeching and no, Adam doesn't screech. This guy barely has a voice but he may be able to sing a little if he quit trying to immulate Adam.

He doesn't deserve to be in the top 24. There were many others better than him they let thru. Idol isn't a therapy contest or a feel sorry for someone contest. It is a singing contest. If this guy gets in the top 12 I won't be watching Idol this year as I couldnt' stand to watch him week after week.

Ok a bit late to the party but here goes..
@anon 6,55 and 11.19
I don't think anybody is being mean in their comments about James. We're all just stating out opinions, its a reality show about singing, they all knew when entering the contest they would be getting judged, not just by the judges but by the public, and thats what we're doing. Adam had to go through it, and all these contestants will have to go through it.
and to the poster who said it wasn't James or Adam that brought up the comparisons but the media, I disagree, James has compared himself at least twice on the show (on the bits I've seen), so he's opened himself up to all the negative press.
As to his singing, no he can't hit the high notes, at least most of the time, to me it sounds like screaming not singing and has made me wince a few times. (I didn't like siobhan either, she sounded like screaming too, didn't like her personality either).
I also think he comes across as cocky,but its early days, maybe he'll grow on me.
I haven't watched every episode this year but have seen some, nobody has grabbed me from the audition like Adam did, none seems to have 'it'!saying that out of the boys I do like Stefano, and Casey's voice but he needs a makeover, and how can he be 19! seriously if i passed him in the street I would think he was at least 30.
I think some of the girls have good voices, but they all blend into each other so much that I can never remember whos who.
Don't get scott, have only heard him sing one song, which wore pretty thin after a while.
Jacee (the young boy) did have a lovely voice, but it didn't sound like his voice had broken yet, and he had absolutely no stage presence or charisma at all. But by not putting him in the top 24 it means he can try out again, if they get to the top 24 they can't.
But so far I can't see any of them with a big future as a recording artist, although there are some good voices,but hopefully they will all improve with that as the weeks go on.

I read an article in a local newspaper about this year's AI. They will be looking for the next superstar recording artist even if it is not the winner. In other words, someone of the top 10 could be chosen to be worked with and developed for a recording contract even as the show and voting is progressing. I think they are just looking for the next big money maker who will sell records or another Justin Bieber with the younger contestants. As we have seen in the past, the winner is not always successful as are some of the others such as Jennifer Hudson, Daughtry, and Adam Lambert. For me, AI will never be the same because of Adam and his impressive vocal talent along with being articulate, charismatic and considerate. He is in a league of his own and I don't really see any of these top 24 coming close to his spectacular musical artistry.

I love Adam so much.....
I also like James durbin but he cannot replace Adam cause Adam is different no him and Adam is better than him!!!!

he doesn't remind me of adam per se. he does seem like a wannabe though. i see someone trying to be like adam but pales in comparison. james's high notes suck or shall i say that he can't even do them correctly. i have no clue why the judges let him through. here's hoping i won't have to see much more of him.

James Durbin sucks. he would be annoying anyway, even if he didn't try to imitate Adam Lambert, who himself, is annoying.

I am sick of James Durbin trying to hit that same high note in every song he sings.. he seems to hit that note just fine, but do we really need to hear it EVERY SONG HE SINGS? no.

give the stupid high note a rest please. we all know you can do it, so just give it a rest.

Yes they do compare, though Adam has better control, but James is working on his control and getting better with it.Adam seams more dark and mysterious than James.They both have that chain on their pants, and I've seen Adam with the tail a couple times when he was on American Idol. They both have amazing voices, though Adam can do more than James can, James is still great. They both are amazing and are their own persons, they have similarities but Paul is similar to Rod Stewert and no ones flipping out about that! So leave James alone. And to add Adam is more freaky haha but in a sexy way.

Did you see what he wore tonight!? It reminded me completely of Adam, except it needed a little more glitz. He understands that we love Adam so maybe he is trying to be a little more "out there" much like Adam, but when it comes to hotness and singing, I think Adam wins :)

Come on people - James and Adam are nothing alike and both of them are sick of being compared. If James were trying to copy Adam, it would be nothing but a compliment to Adam. It's the media making things so tough on them with this, nothing else. I am a fan of both of them. I don't compare them. We should be working together on this to try to help the rockers win. Adam losing was wrong, but eventually people have to get over it. I didn't watch it the next year because Adam should of won. (didn't miss much ,lol). But this year, at least there is someone good to watch, and that is James Durbin.

NO WAY!! There is only one ADAM LAMBERT!! No one comes close.. one of a kind.. the most amazing voice, ever!! Everyone else is a wannabee or counterfeit.. embarrassing.. pitiful. But NO, James Durbin is not even in the same league as Adam.