Notoriously tough "American Idol" judge Simon Cowell singled out one of the contestants during an appearance on the Tonight Show Monday.
But instead of delivering his typical, heavy-handed critique, he applauded Ohio native Crystal Bowersox, pegging her as the next "American Idol."
It was a bold prediction, considering the competition is still young and the contestants have a lot of opportunity to develop as the show progresses.
"I'll tell you who I like, I like this girl Crystal," Cowell told Jay Leno. "She's got a great voice. She's different. I like her."
Cowell spoke of the confidence Bowersox brings to the stage, and also cited her ability to overcome challenges, referring to a medical condition that hospitalized Bowersox last week.
Bowersox lived up to the expectations Tuesday when she brought some soul to "American Idol" with her rendition of Tracy Chapman's "Give Me One Reason."
Her strong, natural sound and developing musical style nearly left the judges at a loss for words.
"I need new adjectives for you. I'm sick and tired of saying you're amazing. I don't know what else to say," Ellen Degeneres offered after the performance.
Randy Jackson's response included nothing but praise, while Kara DioGuardi expressed sheer excitement, saying she sees Bowersox's album unfold each week.
"You are one-million-billion percent going to be in the top twelve next week," Cowell stated, reinforcing his confidence in Bowersox. "And right now you are the one everyone has to beat."
Despite Simon's endorsement, America's voters will determine if Bowersox remains in the competition.
The "American Idol" results show airs Thursday.
But instead of delivering his typical, heavy-handed critique, he applauded Ohio native Crystal Bowersox, pegging her as the next "American Idol."
It was a bold prediction, considering the competition is still young and the contestants have a lot of opportunity to develop as the show progresses.
"I'll tell you who I like, I like this girl Crystal," Cowell told Jay Leno. "She's got a great voice. She's different. I like her."
Cowell spoke of the confidence Bowersox brings to the stage, and also cited her ability to overcome challenges, referring to a medical condition that hospitalized Bowersox last week.
Bowersox lived up to the expectations Tuesday when she brought some soul to "American Idol" with her rendition of Tracy Chapman's "Give Me One Reason."
Her strong, natural sound and developing musical style nearly left the judges at a loss for words.
"I need new adjectives for you. I'm sick and tired of saying you're amazing. I don't know what else to say," Ellen Degeneres offered after the performance.
Randy Jackson's response included nothing but praise, while Kara DioGuardi expressed sheer excitement, saying she sees Bowersox's album unfold each week.
"You are one-million-billion percent going to be in the top twelve next week," Cowell stated, reinforcing his confidence in Bowersox. "And right now you are the one everyone has to beat."
Despite Simon's endorsement, America's voters will determine if Bowersox remains in the competition.
The "American Idol" results show airs Thursday.
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