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We know you were eagerly awaiting this week’s installment in the continuing adventures of our very own American Idol contestant, Dalton Rapattoni. We’ve got you covered. Thursday night, the 20-year-old School of Rock vocal coach, from nearby Sunnyvale, made it to the top eight. Yes, Dallas, we have a resilient contender in this musical competition.
Last week, Rapattoni was the first contestant put through to the final season’s top 10. That dominance continued Thursday as he was the first contestant saved in a double elimination round. The season that began with thousands of potential contestants has been cut down to eight potential winners for the title of final American Idol winner, and Rapattoni is along for the ride.
In what was perhaps his least exciting performance yet, Rapattoni performed the popular tune “Radioactive,” by Imagine Dragons, on a fog-covered stage. The piece very much catered to Rapattoni’s usual rocker-vibe, but there was just something off. Rapattoni looked more somber and less enthusiastic on stage. Judge Harry Connick, Jr. noticed this, pointing out that Rapattoni wasn’t “as present” as he had been in past weeks. Rapattoni did light up when Connick mentioned that Rapattoni reminded him of Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong.
Judge Keith Urban critiqued Rapattoni’s song choice, but said he feels sure that Rapattoni will make it through as long as everyone votes. Judge Jennifer Lopez pointed out Rapattoni’s persistent, unique style and praised Rapattoni for really understanding the “art of the show.”
Despite a somewhat less engaging performance, and somewhat mixed feedback from the judges, Rapattoni held true to his style. Rapattoni is setting a high bar for himself, so it’s easier to pick up on his slightly less engaging performances. No matter what, we are rooting for him. Though voting for this week is now closed, make sure to tune in next Thursday night to see if Rapattoni will make it to the next round.
