Simon picks Taylor Hicks, Kellie Pickler and Chris Daughtry to make the final top 3

In several appearance including The Tonight Show last night Simon has named Taylor, Kellie and Chris to be the final 3 on American Idol. Obviously I hope he is right about Taylor, and I think he is. I think Chris will be there too. I personally would rather see Mandisa there than Kellie, but then again maybe Kellie would be less competition.

I think whoever wins this year could set a new standard for American Idol. If Kellie wins I think American Idol will take a step back and live up to it's reputation for being pop music fast food. I'm not saying Kellie is talentless, but her voice is just ok, but if she didn't have the looks and the likeable personality she wouldn't be there. If Taylor wins I think we may see a lot more real musicians, capable of writing their own songs (that are actually good), than ever before.

Not that I have gotten into the show for the first time, I realize that there a lots of different types of fans. There are people who are like me who get into a performer because they legitimately think the person is good. And then there are people who are just into the show, and they get into performers based on who they think is "right" for the show.

I can't stand hearing "I like Taylor, but he's not American Idol material." I don't think there is right or wrong "American Idol material." I think an American Idol can be whoever the viewing public likes the best. Of course I'm hoping true talent wins.

For Taylor Hicks fans - visit my Taylor Hicks Page and look at the entire page. I have included an easter egg just for Taylor fans - see if you can find it.