It was a nostalgic night on "American Idol," with two alums returning and a special appearance from none other than original judge Paula Abdul!
Season standout Candice Glover had performed Paula's hit "Straight Up" on Wednesday night. Judge Randy Jackson said he tried to reach his former colleague for her opinion, but couldn't get it. Paula then surprised everyone when she appeared on stage, telling a delighted Candice, "I was really moved that you shared your beautiful vocals on a song that's been a best friend to me."
The five remaining ladies were treated by performances from Season 2 runner-up Clay Aiken, and Season 3 winner Fantasia Barrino. Sadly, after they were inspired by the "Idol" success stories, it was time to reveal which two had the lowest votes.
Shockingly, it was the two country singers: Kree Harrison and Janelle Arthur. It was Kree's first time in the bottom two. Janelle ended up having the fewest votes, but the judges didn't use their save -- which was a bit of a slap in the face to Janelle because it was the last time they could use it.
Here's Janelle's best performance to remember her by:
Perhaps Kree and Janelle were splitting the strong (and profitable) "Idol" country voting base and the producers wanted to ensure one makes the finale. Of the remaining four contestants, only Candice and Angie Miler have avoided the bottom group (a feat winners Kelly Clarkson, Taylor Hicks, Carrie Underwood, Jordin Sparks, Lee DeWyze, Scotty McCreery and Phillip Phillips all managed).
Will it be a Candice-Angie finale, or will Kree or Amber Holcomb play spoiler? The great thing is that all of these young women are exceptional singers from different genres.
