American Idol fans were stunned the week of March 24 to learn that Casey Abrams, a front-runner, was nearly eliminated from the Season 10 competition. His low weekly votes were shocking, since Casey demonstrates talent as both a singer and musician, particularly with the stand-up bass. When Casey sings, he has a most unique vocal style: velvety and smooth with a touch of smoke and growl. From the earliest audition days, Casey firmly established himself with such vocal styling.
What kind of singer is Casey?
Casey acknowledges many influences, including Ray Charles, who boasts the same kind of bluesy, bayou influence. Charles was known for shout outs and growls rarely heard outside an evangelical tent. When Casey, just 20, sang "Georgia on My Mind" and "I Put a Spell on You," his affinity for Charles' style was clear.
Casey was warned by judges to keep his snarls and vocal tricks in check. after he growled his way through Nirvana's notable hit "Smells Like Teen Spirit" during Top 12 Week. It was eerie, yet Casey showcased the vocal chops that are becoming his trademark. Though judges gave the singer feedback about his antics, they also cited him as the one contestant who has confidently found his niche (essential for any emerging artist in the music business).
The Rare Idol Save was Used
The American Idol panel of judges (this year comprised of Randy Jackson, Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler) can only save one contestant in the season. If they choose to, the judges can override the popular vote (much like a Presidential veto) and keep a contestant from being eliminated. This year, they used that power for Casey. Casey Abrams of Illinois will continue to perform in the weekly reality series, as well as have a spot on the American Idol national tour--which traditionally features a Top 10, but will boast 11 this year.
Casey's Singular Style Invokes Hall of Fame Rockers
Perhaps it is fate, but in the same time period when young Casey was spared the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame held its annual induction ceremony aired live on Fuse.
This year's famous artists included three men who sing with the same kind of swagger, vocal depth, jazz influences, and originality that make people fans of Casey. Those three rock legends were Dr. John, Tom Waits and Leon Russell (who was recognized as a producer, songwriter and piano man as well as a performer.)
During the March 14 ceremony, Russell sang one of his best known compositions "A Song for You." It was one of many songs this music business entrepreneur created, and one made popular by others as well as Russell himself. The Carpenters, a popular sister-brother singing duo from the 70's, covered another one "Superstar."
Will Casey's Classic Rock Style Prevail?
Uniting jazz, 70's rock, unique vocal growls, and singular personality certainly set Casey Abrams apart. They also link him to Waits, Russell and other legendary performers in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It is not clear, though, if all this will be enough. Perhaps the swagger and crazy vocals will take Casey all the way through Season 10 of American Idol.
Afterward: Like many Idol contestants this year, and of years past, Casey's journey towards fame has ended. His face and style, however, will be remembered, and he is sure to be heard from in the future.
Jeri Dayle-Rabinowitz - Jeri Dayle is a writer mom, or should I say a mom writer? I worked in advertising both full and part-time while raising my family, jobs ...
