2.19.14 Idol Rush Week, The Girls Recap+Tonight, The Boys

Remembering back when Adam mentored Idol before, we saw just a snippet of what he advised the contestants. But a majority of them did not follow his advice. That also seemed to be the case with the contestants this time, by and large. Why? And, in general, why were the contestants so unimpressive after going thru this intensive two-day workshop with so many experts working with them?

I don't think it is pig-headedness or stupidity. At least as far as performance and presentation is concerned. The contestants simply cannot do what they cannot do. We are talking about skills they do not yet possess. If I go to a couple of dance classes, that doesn't instantly make me a smooth, graceful, accomplished dancer. I will still look awkward as hell on the stage when it comes to dancing. If I consult a voice coach for a couple of lessons, or a couple of weeks/months of lessons, I do not suddenly have the ability to control my tone, breathing, range, and power. Someone telling me to make my tone warmer, to support my breathing from my diaphragm, or to switch to head voice.... even if they demonstrate what they are talking about.... does not mean I magically can do what they are advising/demonstrating. Any more than an Olympic skater showing me how to do a triple axil, or telling me to tighten up my spin. Not when I can barely skate in a straight line without falling. 

There is something called "the 10,000 hour rule." There is a lot of research that backs it up. It says that to master any type of complex skill requiring mind and body, physical and mental prowess, one must practice the skill for a minimum of 10,000 hours. This is true of those who start with "natural talent" and those who don't. It isn't the innate talent that makes for success as much as the dedicated, focused practice. 

Which is what these contestants lack - and what Adam had when he auditioned for Idol. (He was right when he said he wasn't ready earlier in his life. He needed more practice not only as a singer, but as a performer on the stage.) And what Adam has in 2014 that he didn't have in 2009 (which is why he seems to be getting better and better vocally and in terms of stage presence). So, as wonderful as Adam is as a performer, and as insightful as he is as a mentor, he cannot give the contestants the many hours of practice they need under their belt with and without coaching. No, they are not being stubborn. They are just underprepared for the task at hand.