Kelly Clarkson came out of Dallas, will we find another pop sensation in the Lone Star State? Actor Neil Patrick Harris, or better known as Doogie Howser, is our guest judge for the day. 
Currently, he plays Barney Stinson on “How I Met Your Mother.” His role as Stinson was Emmy nominated in 2007, 2008, and 2009 for the best supporting actor in a comedy series. He let his personality come out and wasn’t afraid to get it going with Simon.
Starting Day 1 in Dallas is Julie Kevelighan, 28, from Fort Worth, TX, had previously attempted to make it to Hollywood but was rejected. So, after much acting and singing classes, she has returned for another chance. Seems the classes didn’t help. Neil Patrick was concerned about the sign she had brought in with her, she should have started over because her bottom line ran out of room. After being told no, she continued to insist on singing, still horrible. Eventually, she left with a little assistance, hopefully not to return for a third attempt!
Throwing out a little Stevie Wonder, Lloyd “Big Sexy” Thomas, 29, form Dallas, really impressed the judges. Wonder if he sings on the docks while he works? Simon said it was his favorite audition of the day and he really liked him. All the judges were thrilled by him, and Lloyd was thrilled by his golden ticket, “Oh my Goodness, oh my Lord Jesus!”
Next up, singing her original song, Kimberly Carver, 26, from Denton, TX, gave us a catchy, upbeat song. Randy thought it was “excellent” with a “brilliant voice” but Simon thought she was uninteresting because of her look (did someone tell him this is a singing competition, not a fashion show?). Neil Patrick disagreed with Simon and the debate was on! While Simon said no, the others said yes. Give this girl a makeover and she could go far even in Simon’s book!
Strutting his stuff on his way in was Dexter Ward, 20, from Terrell, TX. After showing off his talentless voice, Randy said it “look like it hurt.” There was nothing they could say to help him other than goodbye!
Erica Rhodes, 23, from Irving, TX, got her TV debut on “Barney and Friends.” She left her innocence at the door when she walked in with a dominatrix whip. It was kinda wrong watching this whip-welding, knee high black patent leather boots, with a short, black leather dress and topping it off with a dog collar sing the Barney “I love you, you love me…” song. Then she sang her actual song and it was a “definitely” from Kara. She was sent through to Hollywood…wonder if she will be bringing that whip?
The final contestant for the day was Dave Pittman, 27, from Mountain Home, AR, was diagnosed with turrets syndrome at age 9. Harris’ alter ego, Doogie Howser, M.D. came out and asked, with no hesitation, if Dave has turrets and noted that he has no sign of it while he is singing. Harris said the he was “great” and Simon believed “people will like” him. Dave is off to Hollywood with 4 yes’.
Fourteen others made it through on Day 1.
On Day 2, Joe Jonas joined the panel to help find the next Idol. He is one of three pop-singing brothers, heartthrob of all teen girls, and very successful!
Tossing out his own catchy tune, asking what he needs to do to get to Hollywood, was Todrick Hall, 24, from Arlington, TX. Simon called his audition “cutesy” but “wasn’t jumping out his chair.” Randy said he was the “best he has seen in season 9.” With 4 yes’, he made it through to Hollywood. If his singing career doesn’t work out, he could easily get into songwriting!
The most moving story of the day came from 16 year old Christian Spear from Houston, TX. She was diagnosed with Leukemia when she was 4 years old. For 8 years now, she has been cancer-free. Randy was impressed, Joe said she was “confident and had a beautiful voice,” Kara said she “has a big natural gift” and “didn’t sense any fear” from her, and Simon said, “I think you are an incredibly brave person and I like you, a lot.” She is the one to watch out for from Dallas this season!
Also through to Hollywood on Day 2 was:
- Stephanie Daulong, 20, from Austin, TX. Her voice was kind of strange and different.
- Maegan Wright, 20, from Richardson, TX. Kara was worried when she walked in that it was going to be a joke because of her attire (wearing a blue tank top saying “Break the Rules”) but was presently surprised when she felt moved by her singing. Simon disagreed with Kara and liked that she was herself and comfortable.
And NOT through…
- Vanessa Johnston, 22, Waxahachie, TX. Super annoying and dressing in all bright pink: legging, shorts, wrist band, shirt, and big flower in her hair. All her yelling and squeaking are what Simon says keeps him up at night. She remained positive and was excited that Kara said she would definitely remember her.
31 was the magical number of winners from Dallas. Next week, Idol visit Denver, CO. Guest judging again will be the fabulous Victoria Beckham.
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