She’s here… Ellen DeGeneres made her debut in this first episode of Hollywood Week (9th Episode of Season 9) and just as I am expecting, she IS doing great as a judge with a lot of things to say and saying it in a nice way. Of course, there are 181 hopefuls waiting in the Kodak Theater. Randy said that there are some mad talent within, but we’ll see…

All of these contestants came around in a group of 8, and not all of them will make it – this is the right place to get axed and for dreams to be shattered. Playing of instruments is once again allowed.

Katie Stevens shines once again. Both Simon and Randy were impressed. Simon says “You’re quite good” and Randy says “Great natural talent”. She’s in for the next round, while Antonio “SkiiBoSki” Wheeler just didn’t make it. “You frighten me” Ellen said and when he asked, Simon simply says “You just weren’t very good”.

The episode is a good roller coaster ride. There were 95 contestants that made it thru. I didn’t get all of the names, but so far here’s what I can recall. Those that stands out from the rest of the herd were:

Andrew Garcia – who did Paula Abdul’s “Straight Up”

Janell Wheeler – made a good impression with Estelle’s “American Boy”

Ashley Rodriguez, Toddrick Hall, and Charity Vance also did make the cut.

Lilly Scott – did make it with Ella Fitzgerald’s “Lullaby of Birdland”

Casey James – might not be so good in his original audition but came out here with a bomb. Great singer!

Didi Benami – did make it too, with that kind of really good voice (and a good look), it’s no surprise to me…

Crystal Bowersox – this one I think got a real ‘star power’. She got the audience’s attention and sing along with her. She did Aretha Franklin’s “Natural Woman” and that gets a standing ovation.

Popularity: 2% [?]