I feel like I'm 18 years old again as "Duets" (Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC) gives America the ability to vote for their favorite performance of the first ever live show. The crowd went wild while the superstars gave a sensational rendition of George Michael's "Freedom," but, personally, I feel like they were screaming with glee because of Kelly's new blonde hair. Or maybe it was Jennifer Nettles' baby announcement. New hair, new babies, new voting abilities; it's only natural that the amateurs sing newer songs. Tonight, it's Songs from the Millenium.
Because Jennifer had both of her amateurs left, she sang the first performance of the night with John Glosson. They chose Josh Groban's "When You Say You Love Me." This was a safe choice as John's strength is in ballads. This event and wedding planner gave it his all (as he does every week) and came out strong with his performance. Kelly praised his voice and said that she loved "every time he does that" as John called his voice "magnificent," but the song "syrupy." Robin criticized Jennifer saying that "legally, that wasn't a duet; it was a trio." Touche, Robin. Touche.
Robin held strong with his partner, Olivia Chisholm and chose a song that would hopefully bring out the richer tone in her voice: Lady Antebellum's "Need You Now." It was catchy, sultry, and, according to John, it was a perfect blend of R&B and country. (Apparently the two genres are "cousins"?) John called it "fun," Jennifer said she "looked like a million bucks" and "loved the song choice," but agreed with Kelly that Olivia sounded nervous. Let's hope the rest of America heard the shake in her voice like I did.
There was nothing worse for Kelly than seeing her team at the bottom two. She hated it even more that she said goodbye to Jordan. Although, she was happy that Jason pulled through because she knows his cuteness will be dangerous for everyone else. Jason chose Duffy's "Mercy" and Kelly couldn't be happier with the choice. It was by far Jason's strongest vocal performance. John agreed but called his dance moves unnatural. Jennifer "loved it" and knows that "if teenage girls are voting? Please." Robin kept complimenting Kelly, but eventually told Jason he "loved it."
Bridget Carrington couldn't be happier to be back in rehearsals as she spent the break back at work-- in the tax office. We're glad she's back too. John and Bridget chose the chart-
topping "Halo" by Beyonce. Robin loved that she "sings with such power" and "loved the song choice." Jennifer loved what she did and Kelly gave America some advice to not overlook the "full voice to head voice." Noted, Kelly. Beyonce would be proud of the duet.
Jennifer took the stage again with her second amateur, the superstar favorite J Rome. He's been at the top for five weeks running and both performers hoped he could stay there with Usher and David Guetta's "Without You." Jennifer hoped that J Rome could just be himself with this fun number. Kelly threw her shoe (which, in Kelly's love/hate language, means he's a winner!) and John loved his confidence on stage. but not so much the lower parts in the song. Robin kept complimenting Jennifer's "drop it like it's hot" moves. He thought J Rome was great too.
Five performances and the lines (phone, Facebook, and ABC.com) are open. Three ways to vote and all three will officially close at 11 p.m. ET on Friday. Unlike other singing competitions, we have to wait until next week to find out who's going home. At least we'll heal quickly with duet performances right after.