I watched "American Idol" on the evening when Brooke White decided to start over on her song. Some viewers may have been shocked by what she did. A few even referred to her performance as a "train wreck".
I've been in the music business for over thirty years. At the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis, I remember being part of a panel of three (alongside Artistic Director Garland Wright and Music Director David Bishop) who auditioned singers for the musical "Candide". And I've performed in numerous back-up orchestras behind pop music vocalists.
On a couple of rare occasions over the years, I've seen professionals start a song over during a performance. It's rare but it does happen. So the argument that Brooke did something "unprofessional" isn't exactly based on experience or knowledge of the entertainment industry.
What Brooke did right was to be honest with the judges about her reason for the false start. She admitted that the lyrics escaped her for a moment. She could have blamed the bright lights, the audience, the tension or even the back-up orchestra. But she didn't. Brooke demonstrated admirable judgement and integrity by being candid about what happened. And that candor resonated with those who voted.
I missed last night's Idol show, but I understand Carly Smithson got the boot. Carly has a powerful voice and great stage presence. I believe she'll land on her feet, regardless of what happened last night.
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