Last Thursday (February 20) night, “American Idol” narrowed its field from 20 down to the season's Top 13 and then, still gasping from the adrenaline rush of eliminations and jubilation, the Top 13 paraded up and down a blue carpet in Hollywood answering questions from reporters.
I was on the spot with one of HitFix's ace videographers to brave the erratic blue carpet lighting and journalistic jostling and we were able to chat with all 13 of the finalists who will be performing together for the first time tonight.
Before Wednesday's episode begins, check out my interviews.
Up first? The six guys in the Top 13.
Above, you'll see Alex Preston, who talks about his gifts with a variety of musical instruments, describes the process of choosing other people's songs but connecting to them personally and more! Check out his interview below.
Up next, Ben Briley talks about the tension of waiting for the results of America's vote, the pressure of “going electric” on “Idol” and how he'll differentiate himself from the season's other country boys.
Then it's on to another country boy, Dexter Roberts, who discusses what sets him apart from Ben and also CJ Harris.
And look! It's CJ Harris, who talks about the the challenge of singing for his life on Thursday and explains how his version of country is different from what Ben and Dexter will do.
Our next guy is Caleb Johnson, who may be this season's only Top 13 guy who *doesn't* play the guitar. Caleb talks about his stage persona and why he won't be playing an instrument this season.
And the last male member of the Top 13 is Sam Woolf. Check out his interview below.
Stay tuned for the seven women from the Season's Top 13. And check back tonight for my “American Idol” live-blog.