Trivia time: Three songs by former Idol contestants cracked the top 10 on Billboard’s Hot 100 singles chart in 2009. Can you name them?
The answers appear below, along with a list of select Idol singles released in 2009 and their peak position on the Hot 100.
First, Idol Chatter continues its look at the best of 2009, with a bit of a twist.
Today, my picks for the best of the rest — non-singles you might have overlooked when downloading songs from iTunes or elsewhere.
These deserve a listen. At least I think so.
Of course, music is a matter of taste. If you have other songs you think are must hears, feel free to comment below.
I’ve limited my list to non-singles from Idol albums released between December 2008 and Dec. 1 of this year (with one exception). And I’ve tried to limit my picks to one choice per album, though I couldn’t resist picking two songs each from Brooke White and Kelly Clarkson. (Thanks for the great music, ladies.)
Previous blogs in this look back on 2009 include best and worst albums and best videos.
And, now, my picks for best non-singles. The links take you to full-length versions of the songs.
15. “It’s Your Love” by Ruben Studdard
I’m not a big fan of Ruben’s “Love Is.” Then along comes this unlikely cover of a country hit. A bonus track gem. Ruben never sounded better.
14. “Tip of the Tongue” by Kelly Clarkson
Perhaps the year’s best bonus track, a dance tune co-written by Kelly with a bass/hand clap intro that draws you in. Included on the deluxe version of “All I Ever Wanted.”
13. “If I Had You,” Adam Lambert
The Gaga song on Adam’s album (“Fever”) is a treat, but nothing beats the opening lines of this dance-driven ditty: “So I got my boots on / got the right ‘mount of leather / and I’m doing me up / with the black color liner.” I mean, so Adam.
12. “Rocks Instead of Rice” by Kellie Pickler
Kellie’s second album was released in 2008, but I couldn’t resist including this one. Kellie sings about attending an ex-boyfriend’s wedding, and she isn’t planning on throwing rice. “Long white limosine pulls into the church / A sick part of me wishes it was a hearse.” The perfect match of singer and song.
11. “Varmint Rifle” by Amanda Overmyer
Now how can you resist a song with a closing line where Amanda taunts: “I’m gonna shoot ya”? A broad dash of fun, southern rock style.
Take a simple song with a simple arrangement, add Brooke’s distinctive voice and you have pure magic. Reminiscent of the “Let It Be” performance that won her a huge following on Idol.
9. “Turn To You” by Michael Johns
Before heading into the recording studio, Kris Allen should have listened to Michael Johns’ album, several times. This acoustic number makes the perfect CD closer for a fine album.
8. “Long Shot” by Kelly Clarkson
Katy Perry co-wrote this tune that’s a sure bet to get stuck in your head .. at least until it’s time for the next pop gem on Kelly’s fourth album.
7. “Love or Torture (Please Don’t Stop),” Blake Lewis
In my book, Blake’s one of the most unappreciated Idol finalists. And this is my favorite electro-pop gem from his second album, “Heartbreak on Vinyl.”
6. “Someday When I Stop Loving You,” Carrie Underwood
A song about lost love that lacks the cross-over appeal of “Cowboy Casanova.” But wow, what a vocal. Carrie at her purest. Little wonder she’s sold more albums that any other Idol except Kelly Clarkson.
5. “I Will Be” by Melinda Doolittle
Remember when Melinda, the former background singer, was a favorite to win Idol season six. Here’s a wonderful reminder why from an underrated debut album.
4. “Definition of Me” by Mandisa
A dance beat, a touch of rap and a Christian message, all crammed into 3:25 of head-bobbing fun. A change of pace on a solid second album from Mandisa.
Some of the tunes on Allison’s debut album seem liked they’re aimed straight for the Disney audience. Not this. A raspy, grown-up vocal, and one of the best tracks off the season eight CDs released so far.
2. “Little Bird” by Brooke White
And then take there’s this little ray of sunshine, that’s sure to leave you with a smile. Written by Brooke, season seven colleague Michael Johns and Dave Cobb, who produced both of their fine albums.
1. “Tennessee Line” by Daughtry
A wonderful change-of-pace on a solid second album from Chris and the guys. Features a brilliant vocal, and a contribution from country legend Vince Gill.
2009 Idol Singles
Now, as promised, a list of singles released by Idols in 2009, along with a notation of their peak position on Billboard’s Hot 100.
Look hard enough, and you’ll find the answer to the trivia question above. (DNC means did not chart, at least on the Hot 100. An asterisk indicates it’s still active on the chart and could climb higher.)
Hey, fans, if I missed any, let me know. I know this list probably isn’t complete.
Idol Singles 2009
Kris Allen:
“No Boundaries” — 11
“Live Like We’re Dying” — 33*
David Archuleta
“A Little Too Not Over You” — DNC
Kelly Clarkson
“My Life Would Suck Without You” — 1
“I Do Not Hook Up” — 20
“Already Gone” — 13*
David Cook
“Permanent” — 24
“Come Back to Me” — 63
Daughtry
“No Surprise” — 15
“Life After You” — 58*
Taylor Hicks
“What’s Right is Right” — DNC
Jennifer Hudson
“If This Isn’t Love” — 63
Allison Iraheta
“Friday I’ll Be Over” — DNC*
Adam Lambert
“No Boundaries” — 72
“A Time for Miracles” — 50
“For Your Entertainment” — 61
“Whataya Want From Me” — 72*
Blake Lewis
“Sad Song” — DNC
Katharine McPhee
“Had It All” — DNC*
Kellie Pickler
“Best Days of Your Life” — 46
“You Didn’t Know How Much I Loved You” — DNC*
Jordin Sparks
“Battlefield” — 10
“S.O.S. (Let the Music Play) — DNC
Ruben Studdard
“Together” — DNC
Brooke White
“Hold Up My Heart” — 47
Carrie Underwood
“I Told You So”(with Randy Travis) — 9
“Cowboy Casanova” — 11
Leave a reply