‘American Idol’: Neco Starr & Caleb Johnson Get Another Shot In Georgia

Lisa Timmons | January 24, 2014 6:13 am

The fourth episode of American Idol auditions sees Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr. journeying to Atlanta to hear more Season 13 hopefuls sing their little hearts out. We are treated to some familiar faces, as more than one former contestant receive the ultimate redo, a chance to compete once again for the title of the next American Idol.

In case you didn’t know, it’s the hometown of the hardest working man in the biz, Ryan Seacrest, who offers up home video of his mother waking him up in his family’s guest room. Despite myself, I kind of enjoy this gag.

Majesty Rose kicks off the day with an understated version of “Violet Hill” by Coldplay. Her flower headband gets a big smile from Harry, who deems her “cute.” Hers is the first pass to Hollywood. As Harry first gestures with his hands, I again spot orange palms. Can someone please give him some guidance on the art of self-tanning? Ryan, I’m looking at you.

Jesse Cline singa NeedtoBreathe‘s “Washed By The Water” and is interrupted by the judges because they want to tell him he made it. And I might add, Jennifer looks radiant, as always. Alyson Rogana has pink hair, a ukelele and a unique Tiny Tim sound. However, her quirkiness isn’t enough to make it through. She is sweet and takes it like a champ.

Cowboy-hat-wearing Chris Medina brings his dog, Bubby, whom Harry almost immediately adopts. The judges like him, although Harry indicates that Bubby has peed on his lap. His own fault, if you ask me. Nobody told him to pick her up. Kristen O’Connor is a nurse tech with dreams of being a singer. She belts out her audition, as does Emily Piriz. Both of the pretty, young brunettes learn they are moving on to the next round.

Ben Briley sings “Arms Of A Woman” by Amos Lee. He’s another one who brings a guitar, but doesn’t play it for some reason. Keith is a huge fan, as is Harry. Jennifer says she likes his “nasally tone.” Ben’s going to Hollywood.

Stunning Nica Nashae powers through her version of “Natural Woman” and gets her ticket, claiming she’s going to win the whole thing. Another confident high-schooler, Jordan Brisbane, representing for Savannah, Georgia, asserts that he has “what it takes to shut American Idol series down.” With that, he sings, “When I Was Your Man” by Bruno Mars. He is adorable and gets good marks from the judges. The SAV is going to LAX, y’all!

We get reminded that Philip Phillips was discovered during season 11’s auditions in Savannah, Georgia. Following in his footsteps is candidate, Sam Burchfield, from Athens, Georgia. His selection is a fun version of “I Wanna Be Like You” from Disney’s The Jungle Book. This University of Georgia student gets accolades from Jennifer and Keith, but Harry’s not into it. Despite that, Sam gets his golden ticket. And, ahem, I am contractually obligated to add: Go Dawgs! Sic ’em!

“Blue-Eyed Lie” is an original from small-town rocker chick, Jessica Meuse, who gets thumbs ups from the entire panel. Ryan and his mom goof around throughout the entire episode. It’s cheesy, but I secretly love it.

Travis Hunter-Brown has a ukelele and does a scary version of “Valerie.” More terrible singers follow. America enthusiast, Lauren Ogburn, sports an American flag bandana and boots to sing “Fancy” by Reba McEntire. Keith likes it immediately, but Lauren is curious to know Harry’s opinion. She takes his wardrobe critique from him and earns three yeses.

Former season 11 contestants Neco Starr and Caleb Johnson are looking for a second chance. Neco sings Adele‘s “Someone Like You” while Caleb Johnson gives pure Meat Loaf during his performance. Neco goes through, as well as Caleb.

15-year-old Bria Anai wears purple glitter lipstick, so I automatically like her. She is giving me Pointer Sister, which I naturally love. Her song choice is “One And Only” by Adele. She and her purple sparkle lips are going to Hollywood.

Next week, auditions continue in Salt Lake City, Utah, and guess what that means? We’ll be back to give you the breakdown once again, you lucky ducks, you.

Get an eyeful of even more pop music coverage, from artist interviews to exclusive performances, on Idolator’s YouTube channel.