- Randy Jackson to James Durbin
It was “old & new” song night on American Idol Wednesday, and James Durbin slayed them both.
Durbin kicked off the program with “Closer To The Edge” by 30 Seconds To Mars. The rocker expertly worked the room, getting the crowd involved early in the song.
“James, man, I think you kicked that song’s ass,” said Steven Tyler. “The way you worked the audience, I think you’re ‘ready for Freddie’ [Mercury].”
“Ready for stadiums,” added Jennifer Lopez.
American Idol James Durbin – Closer To The Edge
Original by 30 Seconds To Mars
American Idol – May 4, 2011
For the retro track, James chose 1970’s “Without You” by Harry Nilsson. In the ‘mentor session’ early in the week, the song’s lyrics connected in a big way with Durbin, and the singer needed to step out of the studio to collect himself.
“By the time I actually started listening to the lyrics,” said James, “I broke down. Why I’m here is to make a better life for my family, but every time [fiance] Heidi and [2-year old] Hunter come to visit and they have to leave, I have to let them go.”
Wednesday’s performance of the Nilsson hit was another emotional spot for James, as he struggled to maintain his focus and composure, and eventually tears came before the song’s end.
“Now, this competition is yours to lose,” said Randy Jackson.
Durbin is missing his family back in Santa Cruz and, with seeing them only occasionally throughout the Idol experience, the song really hit the 22-year old; here’s what did it:
No, I can't forget this evening
Or your face as you were leaving
But I guess that's just the way the story goes
You always smile but in your eyes your sorrow shows
Yes, it shows
No, I can't forget tomorrow
When I think of all my sorrows
When I had you there but then I let you go
And now it's only fair that I should let you know
What you should know
I can't live if living is without you
I can't live, I can't give any more
Can't live if living is without you
I can't give, I can't give any more
James Durbin – Without You
Original by Harry Nilsson
American Idol – May 4, 2011
See also:
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VIDEO: James Durbin rocks Elton John on American Idol
VIDEO: James Durbin rocks Stevie Wonder on American Idol
