Photo Credit: CREATIVE ARTISTS AGENCY

Top 5 Perform the Music of Neil Diamond

Season six contestant Chris Richardson recaps the April 29 episode for Us

The show this year has been interesting I must say. Playing instruments adds a different element — especially as contestants tackled the Neil Diamond songbook. (It sure helped Brooke White last night, who complemented “I’m A Believer” and “I Am I Said” with guitar and piano, respectively, as well as Jason Castro, who strummed along to “Forever in Blue Jeans.”) It would have been cool to have had that on our season!

Anyway, I am rooting for them all to have successful careers but David Cook, who rocked on “I’m Alive” and “All I Need Is You” seems to stand out to me — he has got that niche. I think you will see him around.

And David Archuleta seemed to do very well with “Sweet Caroline” and “America.” Also doing well last night? Syesha Mercado, who sang “Hello Again” and "Thank the Lord for the Night Time.” The show seemed a little rushed since they all had to sing two songs apiece — but being a part of that madness I understand why!

It's coming down to the end and it will be interesting to see the outcome. I wish them all the best and hope they don't get caught up in the hype - it can do that to some people.

About this blogger: Richardson, 24, is working full-time on his debut album (a fall release date is planned) with producers Ill Factor and Radio. For the past few months, he has been traveling across the country and working with Dreyer's/Edy's Slow Churned ice cream and promoting their five American Idol flavors.

BY CHRIS RICHARDSON