OKAY, I USUALLY STAY AWAY FROM A HOT TOPIC (THAT INCLUDES THAT PSEUDO-PUNK STORE IN EVERY MALL)...BUT:

I'm throwing in my vote for Taylor Hicks to win it all. I'm much more a fan of the goofy wedding singer than the Dion-esque female powerhouse. I mean, c'mon, what's not to like about pepperheaded Taylor? He's like your Everyday Joe. He's oafy, laughs at stupid crap and couldn't dance to save himself. I know, he's playing a role and he's probably a complete jerk in real life, but I'm a sucka and Taylor's my man.

We'll forgive him, though, for completely biting Joe Cocker's style. Lucky that young American Idol audience has no earthly idea who Joe Cocker is or he'd be called an imposter and beheaded in the town square.

For those who need a photo reference. This is Joe Cocker. He rules.

Poor Danny. His sweet Jewish boy, Elliott Yamin, got the proverbial boot last week. Danny swore the dude was gonna take it. Dude was just too creepy when he sang. I mean, I wouldn't be able to carry a tune if it fit in my front pocket, but at least I look good when I'm doing it. Ol' Elliott looked like a doof up there. Maybe that was Danny's attraction. Kiddin' bro.

Watch Taylor. He's takin' this muddah.