American Idol 15: Top 25- Group 1 Results and Power Rankings

For the first time ever, former Idols performed a duet with the current contestants. And the result was a mixed bag. Selecting songs that they performed on the show or their own, the current singers were forced to sing songs that didn't always sit right. And for those who got lucky, it was a fantastic showcase of talent. Here's how this batch of 12 faired. 

#1) La’Porsha Renae (with Fantasia)

“Summertime” by George Gershwin

This is the one instance where starting with the Idol worked as it brought great anticipation for La’Porsha once she began singing. There's not much to say. It was a great performance. Dare I say La’Porsha beats Fantasia?

Score: 9

#2) Thomas Stringfellow (with Nick Fradiani)

“Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson

What a great song choice! It was what sealed Nick’s journey to the top. Thomas has a distinct voice and you either love it or hate it. And I happen to be a fan. This was a breakout performance for him. They played well off of one another. Say what you will, but something extraordinary has happened to Nick Fradiani since we first met him a year ago.

Score: 8.5

#3) Jordan Sasser (with Fantasia)

“I Believe” by Fantasia

Jordan was in his own world during his solo moments but he blended well with Fantasia when they sang as one. But again, this is her song and always will be. He really was the featured one in the pair.

Score: 8

#4) Gianna Isabella (with Nick Fradiani)

“Beautiful Life” by Nick Fradiani

This song was perfect for Nick. And shockingly, this worked wonders for Gianna. It helped redeemed her from her previous performance. So maybe this is just a great song. Playing in the harmonies was a smart choice for Gianna as it showed off her upper register. She was a bit pitchy but she had fun.

Score: 8

#5) Mackenzie Bourg (with Lauren Alaina)

“I Hope You Dance” by Leanne Womack

Ew song. Mackenzie's got a fine voice but this was not a good song for him to work with. Also, if Lauren was on the show now, she has a fighting chance to actually do well. Talk about growth! But we’re here for the little one, Mackenzie. And he’s a bit awkward in duet form. They were cute in their package but that's not what they were there to do.

Score: 7.5

#6) Jenna Renae (with Scotty McCreery)

“See You Tonight” by Scotty McCreery

Scotty done grow up! Due to the nature of the song, Jenna is forced to be the featured artist rather than showcase her in, you know, HER competition. When she does get her chance, it’s a bit pitchy. And that’s a shame.

Score: 7.5

#7) Jeneve Rose Mitchell (with Scotty McCreery)

“Gone” by Montgomery Gentry 

It’s a perfect pair for her. This is the style that she should be doing. But she’s just a little much for my liking. Can we talk about this outfit too? Who is dressing her?

Score: 7

#8) Stephany Negrete (with Ruben Studdard)

“Superstar” by The Carpenters

What a boring song. While it shows off her voice, it does nothing to redeem her from the previous performance. Such a shame.

Score: 6.5

#9) Emily Brooke (with Lauren Alaina)

“Flat on the Floor” by Carrie Underwood

Lauren Alaina finally sounds like a legit singer! Emily is completely lost next to Lauren. She looks like a featured artist rather than a potential winner. Her voice is thin, and Lauren Alaina is not a powerhouse.

Score: 6.5

#10) Sonika Vaid (with Caleb Johnson)

“Skyfall” by Adele

I really hate this song. Compared to Adele, Sonika’s voice is underwhelming. When Caleb gets more love from the audience, it’s a bad sign for Sonika. Overall, a bad pairing that was simply boring and downright weird.

Score: 6

#11) James VII (with Caleb Johnson)

“Gimme Shelter” by The Rolling Stones

Woah hey there hair. Worst combo ever. Leatherman jacket? James' voice is very specific and not nearly as powerful as Caleb. And that’s not good when the camera pans into Caleb at the end and not him. 

Score: 6

#12) Avalon Young (with Ruben Studdard)

“Flying Without Wings” by Ruben Studdard

Well, the song has returned and Rub don’t sound so good on it. It’s likely in a different key? And I totally zoned out. This is Ruben’s song no matter what and Avalon is lost. When they harmonize, she’s great but solo, she fails miserably.

Score: 6

The judges have to save SEVEN and eliminate FIVE from this group. Leaving the competition are:

Emily Brooke

James VII

Jenna Renae

Jordan Sasser

Stepany Negrete

I'm pretty fine with most of these. Jordan had a great story so it's a shock that he's gone this soon. But for me, loosing Jenna is a travesty. After her performance of "My Church", I thought she'd be the country queen of the season. 

Power Rankings (after 2 performances)

#1) La’Porsha Renae- 18 points

#2) Thomas Stringfellow- 17 points

#3) Mackenzie Bourg- 15.5 points

#4) Gianna Isabella- 15 points

#5) Sonika Vaid- 13.5 points

#6) Avalon Young- 12.5 points

#7) Jeneve Rose Mitchell- 12 points