'American Idol''s Top 16 Women Compete To Make it One More Week

As Randy Jackson would say, "Check this out." "American Idol" opened Tuesday night with Ellen DeGeneres sitting in Simon Cowell's lap whispering sweet nothings in his ear. Were they trying to put the kibosh on the rumors that they don't get along? It wasn't clear, but it was a fun way to add fuel to the fire.

Then the talent portion of the night was launched with Katie Stevens performing a song by the first "American Idol" -- Kelly Clarkson's "Breakaway." Randy Jackson wasn't blown away. He said, "I think Kelly Clarkson is one of the best contestants we have ever had. This paled in comparison. It was like karaoke." Ellen was kinder, saying, "You took our note and sang a young song. I think it was a great song choice. You have a great voice. I didn't feel the words. I didn't feel you breaking away." Kara DioGuardi commented, "You have a great radio voice. I can hear you. What is going on this year is we have people who really know themselves and people who don't. You don't really know who you are as an artist. You will get it, but the singing needed to be perfect tonight to stand out." Simon concurred with Kara, adding, "I think this is confusing to you. To be fair, you took the advice. I think your issue is you haven't worked out what kind of artist you want to be. The problem is the second half of the song didn't go as it should have. You sucked the energy out of it. I have to give you 10 out of 10 for trying."

In a tribute to her father, who taught her how to sing, Siobhan Magnus performed "House of the Rising Sun" by The Animals. Randy complimented, "You know I am a fan. You come out every week and surprise us. I love what you do, because you take every risk. We give you advice. I don't think you listen to us. Keep doing it because it is hot." Ellen told her, "You are why I love music -- because it is supposed to move you. I was captivated. I love what you did with the song. You made it current." Kara pointed out, "I loved the a cappella vibe at the front. That was a brilliant choice. The thing about you is you are so unique and different. Week to week, I am surprised by you. You are doing great." Simon wasn't as big a fan. "If this was the first time I had seen you, I would have doubts," he said. "You didn't do anything different with the song. I was under-impressed. You did better last week. You didn't have a moment like last week."