Thursday, May 27, 2010

Crystal Bowersox on American Idol Outcome: "We Both Win"

'My life is never going to be the same, and I'm ready for all of it,' she says backstage after the finale.

By Kelley L. Carter/m4v

LOS ANGELES — Don't cry for Crystal Bowersox. Before Ryan Seacrest announced Lee DeWyze as the new American Idol, the single mom said she knew she wouldn't be taking home the top prize.

"I knew Lee was going to win," she said backstage, minutes after the finale ended. "People seem to be surprised by that. But I had a feeling. I couldn't be happier for him. He deserves every minute of this. There wasn't really a reason why [I thought I wouldn't win]. It was just something that I felt and I knew, and I'm fine with that. Before the show ... I had this strange sense of peace and calm. I've been that way through the whole season. If you haven't noticed, I'm just mellow. I was ready and willing ... for the outcome. We both win. It's not win or lose; it's winner and non-winner. Both of us are going to have very successful careers, and we're going to be friends for a long time."

For Bowersox, winning was performing alongside Alanis Morissette and Joe Cocker. She also said she was moved by the tributes for Simon Cowell.

"Joe Cocker is a living legend, and every noise, grunt that came out of him, every fiber in my being felt it," she said. "He didn't give me any advice, but he kept calling me 'Angel.' He said, 'I know your name is Crystal, but I want to call you Angel.' And I'm like, 'That's fine. You can call me whatever you want. You're Joe Cocker!' "

Bowersox said she learned a lot about herself during the "American Idol" experience. The most important lesson?

"I can walk in heels — downstairs, nonetheless," she said, joking about her Tuesday night performance, where she wobbled a bit in high heels. "I've learned a lot about myself and I've learned a lot about the business. I already knew who I was, but I'm picking the things that I like and adding to it. My life is never going to be the same, and I'm ready for all of it."

Up next, Bowersox says she's going to go "hug my baby boy and get back to living." She'll start to prepare for the summer tour and also plans to get to work on her album.

"Now the real work begins," she said.

Were you surprised Crystal didn't win "American Idol"? Let us know in the comments.

55 comments:

  1. I'm not at all suprised the Crystal didn't win, after all... look at who's voting. Lee is a good looking guy, and he gets all the votes from the little 12 year old girls who vote on the show.

    Personally, I think Crystal is the more talented artist. Rock on girl! lml (>.<) lml

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  2. I was very surprised but think in the long run it is the best. she will not be tied down to their (idol) contract and will go on to a be a HUGE star without them. She is NW Ohio's idol and now the whole country gets to enjoy her! Momma Sox Rocks!

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  3. Does anybody know the upcoming TV presentations of Crystal? I would like to tape them if possible

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  4. In my book, Crystal is a winner no matter what the outcome of American Idol. She is a fine young woman and a great music addition to our world. I loved her unique confidence she allowed us all to see, she was comfortable with the stage, the criticism she was given, and she used every ounce of it to improve her self worth, she didn't crumble because someone didn't like her style or the way she sung a song..she used it as a stepping stone to a higher level. She was gracious, always listening and always knew who she was and where she was headed. So, to me, she too is a winner..I hope she will not allow fame to change that..instead I pray that she will continue to grow as a person as well as a lifelong performer that all will remember, years from now..Congratulations!!
    You go Crystal! We all love your style and who you are..

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  5. Crystal is embarking on a fabulous career. She will be around for ages to come and I project she'll be THE most successful "non-winner" in Idol history. Crystal, we love you!!

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  6. I was totally shocked that Crystal didn't win. She seems to put her heart and soul in every song she sings and does it without even trying! I wish her the best of luck which I know she will go far. Good luck Crystal and take care of that cute lil guy you have.

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  7. I got a bad feeling when Ryan asked 'Who's here for Crystal', and 'who's here for Lee' because the reaction for Lee was huge. That's when I figured there are a lot of fans who are probably favoring the guy and the personality.

    So often the fans will become loyal to what appeals to them, like looks or style. Coincidentally, those fans are also the ones who will vote repeatedly and very aggressively. Those who were drawn to the talent and stage presence probably figured that would draw more votes and we were wrong. Those fans who found such deep physical attraction and emotional attachment to their favorite idol DEFINATELY put in more votes than the system should allow.

    Surprised? Not really... more like overwhelmingly disappointed in the system.

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  8. Shocked is a better adjective but it's going to work out just fine for Crystal. Good luck girl!

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  9. I say Crystal IS a winner! She was able to introduce herself and her music to all of us, and now has a huge number of loyal fans who are looking forward to owning her albums and hearing her unique sound for years to come. Sorry, Ohio, you're going to have to share! Record that music, Crystal, we're waiting to buy it. (A new fan in Washington State), Cindy

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  10. Honey, I've been listening to your music and singing along for weeks now - you write some of the most intense music I've ever heard. I'll be standing in line, waiting for that first, excellent CD.

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  11. Congrats to both Crystal and Lee, and all the top 12! Remember people, they are close friends now, so tread gently on the issue...and they both get "tied" to the IDOL contracts, I think the winner gets like 50k more per signing bonus is all.

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  12. From Carol Storey, Grand Junction, CO...

    I wasn't surprised by the outcome, even though Crystal out-sang and out-performed Lee hands down. Lee had the female teeny bopper,texter vote and Crystal was often so confident and almost too real without the sexy "commercial" package that it takes to reach the finicky young males in this country. In my opinion, Crystal may need to get with a trainer and shed some Momma weight and get her front teeth color whiter to get the "commercial" appearance needed to be accepted by the fickle, judge-mental people in the world.
    I was so impressed with her performances (especially with Alanis M., who she sang under the table)last night. Wow! What a voice that has so much flexibility-- from rockin' raspy volume to a clear, soft soprano and never off pitch. I can't wait for her album and the success I know she'll have. The only thing I hope is that she stay true to herself, but at the same time move a bit more away from the whole coffee house rock style and be more "relevant" as an adult alternative/rock artist. I'm 57, but I really love to listen to the Pulse. I think that most of that music is where it's at today. But, I mostly enjoy good vocal ability in a song that tells a story and that has interesting chord progressions in the arrangement, as well as good accompaniment(something I think that often wrecked performances on Idol).

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  13. hello crystal i just want to say something yes u did win last nite i think ur the best i wish u best in everything u do u have a god given talent and with that u will go far. heh ur from toledo so am i im not living there but was born there. congradulations!!!!!!

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  14. We were very disappointed and surprised that Crystal did not win. She was way more talented than anyone else in the running! Crystal, get that album out, because we are big fans and will buy everything you produce and would love to come to a concert. Stay as real and dedicated as you obviously are! Your fans from Waterville, Ohio.

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  15. I agree that Crystal is amazing and possibly the best new singer I've heard in a long time! She really won that contast hands down in my mind.
    I can't wait to get her CD's and share them with friends. I hope she doesn't change anything about herself as well.
    PS: I am done with American Idol.

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  16. Crystal, I am so proud of you! I went to the Village Idiot last week to watch you perform you were the best! But you've been the best the whole way. I think I can say on behalf of me and Toledo that you are truly the American Idol. But no matter what, I know you'll do great!!! I am very excited for your upcoming album, I can promise you that i'll buy it! Also, I cant wait for you to come to Toledo!!!! I love you Crystal!!!!!!! Ur amazing!

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  17. I was very disappointed but not surprized its been that way for the past few years now. Crystal will go on to have a giant career but I don't think Lee is going to go very far he has not been consistent. I believe they should do like DWST and only allow 10 votes per phone.Crystal you are our American !!!!!

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  18. It was a disappointment to witness that Lee won instead of Crystal. It was a clear as water that Crystal really is talented and Lee during that show didn't put a good fight at all. But as the saying goes everything happens for a reason and an unlikely scenario like this has a higher purpose. Good luck Crystal on your journey an an artist and may God continue to pour His blessings on you and on your son. Take care always..
    Sheilah (a fan from the Philippines)

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  19. Dearest Crystal! You MADE season 9 an absolute joy to watch. Once again the American public couldn't see, hear and ,ultimately choose the best. But worry not MOMMA SOX the legion of supporters that you have grabbed along this part of your journey/career will always be loyal to you(unlike Tony!). We here in Canada applaud your every single note and KNOW that your success will outlive American Idol. I'm sure that if you need, or want a second country to call your own, we're ready for you and your son. We can't wait for the female "Daughtry" to bless us with your awesome presence. In the words of Pink Floyd "shine on you crazy diamond!!!!". My love and prayers are with you always. Also thanks to your parents for gifting us with you.

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  20. This is now four seasons in a row where the best singer / performer / artist did not win. I am not bothered by it any longer. Face it, who is going to sit and vote hundreds of times in a fanatic maner. Millions of dumb little girls whe also like Justin Bieber. You can't compete with that. All I wanted was for Crystal to make it to the end, so I could watch her every show.

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  21. Crystal should have won just like Adam should have won last year. The wrong person won 2 years in a row! There really should be a way to control how the votes come in. There should only be one vote accepted per phone number. People should NOT be allowed to vote more than once. They should also open it up to voting online, but again, one vote only.

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  22. Crystal... wait and see who makes more of the money on sales of their cds and appearances. I know the answer to that one will NOT be Lee but it will be you. You ARE the best this season, no doubt about that! Rock On MammaSox!!!

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  23. Looking forward to her first album. Singer/songwriters have great appeal to many ages. I will buy her music! I will go to her concerts!

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  24. You will go in to do bigger and better things You have AMAZING TALENT and like Adam Lambert last season will be bigger and better
    I cant even remember the winners name from last season but i remember Adam. Best of luck from New Zealand xx

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  25. How can people can say Lee won due to his talent and personality? Because let's face it, he really is quite pedestrian.

    Crystal on the other hand has the voice and disposition of an angel. Her star is now set and she can only flourish from here.

    It is unlikely that either of them could have made it this far without AI but I suspect that this time next year Crystal will be an established star whereas Lee, like so many of the mediocre winners from the past, will have faded into the Winners' Cloud of Obscurity.

    Go Crystal! Get out there and make music for us!

    Lindsay
    Central Java, Indonesia

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  26. I wasn't surprised but I wanted her to win. She was the most talented by far! Lee is more commercial. She is headed for a great career and loves what she is doing. What more does she need?! She did a wonderful job and puts her whole being into every performance.

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  27. Yes I was very surprised that Crystal didn't win American Idol but in my books she is the winner.This is my last year watching Idol because of last years winner and of course this years winner,I'm very disappointed in the system, something is very wrong here.Wishing you all the very very best Crystal and you will reach the top,can't wait for your album to come out.

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  28. I tried to vote numerous times by texting and none of my texts would go through. The system was jammed up. I wonder how many other people were trying to vote for Crystal and couldn't get their vote through the jammed system. She was clearly the better vocalist in the final competition and should have won.

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  29. Chrystal was the most consistant performer on any AI I have watched. Every week I tuned in to listen to HER. Shes a star and I, for one, will be supporting her all the way. Winner, or not, I believe that her future is now set, as it should be.

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  30. You are a beautiful addition to the music world for sure. I knew it would come down to you and Lee quite a while ago, and then it would be a toss up....I enjoyed listening to you both and look forward to your album girl.....I wish I had the guts to get up there like you!

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  31. Crystal I am so excited for a album of origional music from you. And when you tour with it, I will find you. Love your son with all your heart..just save a tiny piece of yourself for your fans.

    I will not spend my money on the IDOL tour this year. Sorry. You and Lee have chemistry, and are good together. But the others..sorry. I just never got them. Thanks for the wonderful entertainment this season.

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  32. Sexism ......shame,shame....I cannot believe that giggley girls would decide the future of someone.\have AI no shame.Wasn't this a singing competition or cosmo!Crystal should have won this!I am done with AI.Its very dissapointing to watch Crystal rock that stage and someone else take home the prize.
    Crystal of course u had a feeling the audiences were mostly giggly girls.But u will go far you are the true winner! God Bless you and your family.
    From Canada

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  33. Hi, I watched Idol only because of you. Wish you all the best,I think that you will write a few great songs before you are finished
    from Canada

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  34. I was a little surprised that she didn't win; but I will always be a big fan of her. She was the artist who was very consistent on her performances, and she was the one who was original.
    I wish I liven in America so that I can vote for her, sadly I'm in the Philippines, and all I could give was all my support in cheers, and for me, she is the "American idol"
    I'm excited 'bout your new album and I will really save up to buy one when it comes out! :)
    So yes, thank you for the great music you have given us this season, God speed and always be great!

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  35. Crystal will go on to have the most successful music career in American Idol history, winner or non winner!!!

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  36. My daughter and I picked the top three a long time ago, but when it came down to it, we knew that no matter who won, those top three would do VERY well. Congratulations, Crystal. Your son will never know poverty, because he has a mother who not only loves him and her music, but has a whole world filled with people who love her and her voice.

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  37. Disappointed isn't a strong enough word for Crystal not winning. However, in my eyes she is the winner. I realize ATT makes a ton of money because of txt msgs BUT AI voting sucks!

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  38. Crystal will a legend and the whole world will be saying Lee who? and Kris who?

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  39. Crystal proved to the world she can hold her own with the fabulous duet with Alanis M. Not only was she the best singer all season long, she was the only one with real talent. Did any watch the finale show??? Lee couldn't pull off any of the three songs...He is not in the same league as Crystal. Idol really needs to change the voting system- One vote per person. Then maybe the real talent of the season will win...Remember Adam from last season??? Clearly, also the one with the talent, but he also did not win. Love to you Crystal...I am huge fan and will be looking forward to hearing your music soon!

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  40. Hey Crystal! I think it is amazing what you have done. I was sad that you didn't win but I know that you are going to be so successful! You have such an amazing, beautiful voice and you have such an awesome range. I love the fact that you can sing rock or country or anything you want, and you are awesome. My parents back home(Toledo) have been rooting for you since the beginning. They were actually the ones to tell me you were on the show. I don't watch AI anymore. This season I kept up though. Stay strong and awesome :) I will definitely be buying your future CDs!

    Currently from Ohio University but originally from Sylvania, Ohio.

    Allison

    Oh and my dad told me his aunt and uncle live around you. Now I get to brag to people about how sweet it is that I have family that are right next to you.

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  41. If Crystal put out an album with her best from Idol (including Tues. and Wed. night performances), I really think it would be a hit from day one. Blue Velvet and the Alanis duet were phenomenal, plus her part of the Joe Cocker number was so CRYSTAL(pardon the pun)clear and way up there.

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  42. I wasn't completely taken by surprise when Crystal didn't win. Lee was this year's dark horse (like Kris Allen last year), and by time they performed for the last time, I felt both were equally deserving of the title. I did vote for Crystal, because she's been my favorite since the beginning and her Janis Joplin sound is something that I really love, and I was sad when she didn't win. But you don't have to win to break into the music industry, and I've known since Hollywood week that she would have a record contract in no time.

    Congrats, Crystal, you've known who you are as a musician since the beginning and you stayed true to yourself throughout the whole thing (something many contestants don't manage to do). You're *my* American Idol and I'm anxiously awaiting your first album.

    Also, congrats to Lee. He's grown so much, become more confident of himself after each performance and I'm also anxiously awaiting his first album. And for all the people out there who think that his only fans were 12 year old girls, they weren't. I'm a 33 year old mother of four and I love Lee. Demeaning him and his fans by making such ridiculous comments makes you (and as result, Crystal) look bad. Be a gracious loser, just like the woman you love so much.

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  43. in my opnion, from the first time i heard her sing, Crystal was gonna go all the way. My husband and i both were digging the roughness in her voice-then she was playing the guitar and harmonica, WOW! I also liked Lee's performances but he didn't make those little hairs on the back of my neck stand up, and i could always fell the emotional connection to the songs when Crystal performed. Just think she is awsome and i can't wait for the 1st release...i'll be in line the nite before! Good luck and keep on rockin' MAMA SOX!!!!!

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  44. I do not watch tv, but happened to turn on AI at the beginning of the season after watching a DVD and heard Crystal. I watched all the way through because of her. My husband would stay in the other room during the rest of the show, and would come out when Crystal was on (he's a super-talented fingerstyle guitarist and is very picky about music). Crystal has an awesome voice that far exceeded any of the other performers. Lee was my second favorite, so at least it was him that won. It was clear, however, that Crystal is far more gifted and talented. As a former Ohio girl, I'm proud she has those roots. She will now spread her wings and fly!

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  45. Lee is a great guy, obviously, but, as an accomplished songwriter and musician, I noticed,(as did the judges)that he was out-of-key a lot...not just a little. He'll do great in the studio because he has a good contemporary radio voice, and you can punch in at the studio when a line or 2 are not up to key, or too sharp, as I heard most often.. Just sayin.. Don't want to rain on anyone's parade, but here's what happened. Crystal was far and above in talent, and her career will show it over time. Teeny-bopper girls put Lee over the top in numbers, just like they put Kris Allen over the top last year over Adam. Good luck to both. Kris Allen Who???

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  46. Hey Crystal; You and Lee and Casey-they need to do a version of "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid " starring the 3 of you! You three;what a cool trio of super people. I really couldn't separate you and Lee and hope you do something together. Look I'm no tweener or cougar-just an old ex hippie who loves your sound. Make your life a song-you have a clean slate now. Go!

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  47. Crystal you and Casy were my picks from the start. I knew from your first audition you were the best muscian in the competion. I can't wait to see you hopefully at the 9:30 Club in DC sometime in the future. You are right up there with Brett Dennen as my favorite new artists

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  48. Crystal, even though you said you are ok with all this, we ALL still feel like you should have won! You did yes, but, you didn't! We love you, you are REAL! This ended up a popularity contest, not what this was really about. Looked like even the judges were rooting for you. I know we all were! Thank you for making it on Idol, it was awesome to listen to real music again. I can not wait to buy every single cd and single you make...you took our hearts the first day, now, you have them forever....Congrats on your new life!!!

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  49. Crystal, you were my pick right from the moment you auditioned and I was certainly right! You're going to be BIG, girl!!! You deserve all the success you get because you were born to perform. Love ya' to pieces.

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  50. R U kidding me! America got it wrong, how could she not of won,? She knocked the competition down every week. Hold your head up girl no shame with your performance. The only shame is shame on america for getting this all wrong.

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  51. Crystal,

    I would like to echo some of the same sentiments as others have already said - I felt inspired by your songs (and your spirit) - especially the ones you wrote yourself. I voted for you because of that inspiration, over & over again - especially on the last evening of the competition.

    Now that the show is over & you can move forward, hopefully people's opinions about who was best, or should have won, can be set aside.

    It's time for whatever comes next - between living your life, caring for your beautiful son, signing a recording contract that suits you, and the upcoming AI tour, you have plenty on your plate. (Salad or otherwise!)

    Your style & your vocals are so pure and heartfelt that they reach not only the heart but the soul of your listeners.

    Very few singer/songwriters on the radio, or elsewhere, can do what you are already doing with your talents. Like John Mellencamp you have touched Middle American lives, and those of others, who have not lived their days out with having everything they've ever wanted or needed being handed to them.

    Having lived with hardships I can honestly say they are what hones you down if you take the high road (rather than being resentful, angry or victimized as many people become).
    It can make you feel more compassion for others, and brings honesty through in how you choose to express yourself. Just as you do in your songs & what you have to say in person.

    Thank you for being who you are & sharing it with all of us. In that alone you have set a fine example out to the world, whether you realize it or not, to choose to be a better person. You have a voice now in reaching the masses of the world - and while it is not your responsibility to do it - I think it comes naturally for you. In that way you are in so many ways the Angel that Joe Cocker called you, bringing us a message & that message is this: to come from the heart and to do so with integrity, in all that we do & say.

    May your journey ahead be filled with much love & many blessings, and whatever guidance you may need along the way.

    Keep on rockin our sox off! I will be waiting in line with anticipation for every one of your future albums!

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  52. I feel the same as a lot of you'all, I don't think its fair that these lil fans should vote more than one time, or that the judges should have more a say cause it was plain to see/ hear Crystal was so much more a performer than Lee

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  53. Hey Crystal Girl: Your Pittsburgh Buds
    here, We cant wait till you come to the Burgh
    for the idol concert, you are goint to be playing in a bran new arena the Consol Energy center its the new home of the Pittsburgh Penguins Hocke Team, WE just love you and your music and cant wait till your album comes
    out,We got all your music on our I-Pods and
    listen to it in our cars, and people just say
    who is that, she is awsome!Thar pretty cool
    you and Lee got new cars, see, you are getting
    rewarded for all the good you have done so far in your life and you will have a great carer I can feel it.Well make some Mamasox's
    music so we can buy it huh. Hope we hear from you soon. Your Pittsburgh Buds!!

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  54. Considering that the American public drink lite beer and eat Mac's I was not supprised. They have no taste.
    Jerry

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  55. Crystal made my goosebumps bump! She should have won but all the teeny boppers voted for Lee and not for the real talent. Crystal will shine in life anyway. I will buy her album, for sure. Just keep on being yourself!

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