Urban booted from 'American Idol'

4/21/2010
BY KIRK BAIRD
BLADE STAFF WRITER

It was the end of a tumultuous road for American Idol contestant Tim Urban. After weeks of being derided by the show's judges, the 20-year-old from Duncanville, Texas, was eliminated from the competition Wednesday night, while Crystal Bowersox was safe for another week.

Mr. Urban performed the Goo Goo Dolls' “Better Days” for the show's songs that inspire theme.

Joining him in the bottom three were 16-year-old Aaron Kelly from Sones-town, Pa., and 27-year-old Casey James from Fort Worth, Texas.

It was no surprise that Ms. Bowersox was the first to learn she was safe from elimination this week. The 24-year-old Ottawa County resident's moving performance of “People Get Ready” by the Impressions had the quartet of judges singing her praises.

“Been a fan since day one,” Randy Jackson said. “That is how you do it. That was unbelievable. I've got to give you the standing [ovation].”

Last night's American Idol was a charity fund-raiser, and featured performances by Alicia Keys, Elton John, Carrie Underwood, the Black Eyed Peas, Annie Lennox, Jeff Beck and Joss Stone, and Mary J. Blige.

With Mr. Urban eliminated, there are six contestants remaining. Next week, American Idol will feature Shania Twain as mentor with her music as the theme.

The hourlong performance show will air at 8 p.m. Tuesday, with the results shown the next night at 9. American Idol can be seen locally on WUPW-TV, Channel 36.