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Sunday, May 13, 2007 - 3:57 pm ET
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Is Jordin Sparks Getting the Christian Vote?

Okay. I have no opinion about this either way so let’s just get that out of the way first. Second, I think that Jordin Sparks is a talented girl and a worthy contestant on American Idol. That said, I have wondered in the past how she has remained on the show after certain performances (like Bon Jovi week, ugh) but I am in no way, shape or form suggesting that this is the reason for Jordin’s votes. It’s just a theory that I came across. Here’s the scoop:

The Chicago Sun-Times have uncovered a picture of Jordin at an anti-abortion rally and have begun to wonder if Jordin is raking in the Christian right vote because this photo has been circulating on the internet. Here’s the Sun-Times article (I did not write it, so if you have a complaint direct it at that newspaper – the link is at the end of the article):

jordinabortionWhere are the viewer votes for “American Idol” front-runner Jordin Sparks coming from? Possibly the Christian right.

A photo that seems to show her holding a “Stop Abortion Now” sign is making the rounds of “Idol” fan postings online.

Most viewers are unaware, though. In “Idol” fashion, no one on air ever asks Jordin about politics, since “Idol” builds up these future musical properties with cotton candy profiles.

Anti-abortion-rights people are definitely trying to politicize “Idol.” A few weeks ago, “Idol” raised $70 million for poverty charities in America and Africa.

At least one overzealous outfit attacked the show in a press release, screaming in a headline, “AMERICAN IDOL NOW FUNDING PRO-ABORTION GROUPS.”

You see, two charities that benefitted were UNICEF and Save the Children, organizations that feed the most starving-to-death families around the world.

But UNICEF and Save the Children also do family planning. If potential mothers die of hunger, their someday-unborn babies won’t even become pre-unborn. True believers don’t want to hear that.

So now, the trio of finalists is Jordin, Blake Lewis and Melinda Doolittle. Horrible Blake will probably get ejected next week. Paula Abdul loves Blake. My friend Ashley says that’s because Paula is sexist and stands up to dance during male performances.

This week, Paula called Blake a “contemporary rebel” for the way he beatboxed to Bee Gees songs in falsetto. That would have made him a rebel in 1983, maybe. Also a dork.

But based on the old ages of songs contestants must sing, the aggregate year “Idol” actually takes place in is 1982, so of course Paula thinks Blake is ahead of the back-to-the-future curve.

The judges truly need to catch up. A few months ago, Blake sang “All Mixed Up,” a huge 1995 MTV hit that helped sell 3 million albums for the band 311. Paula, Randy and Simon beamed at how modern it sounded, since they’d never heard it.

In other words, Paula, Randy Jackson and Simon Cowell are so out of touch with modern rock from 2007 and Top 10 rock from 1995 that they think Blake’s subpar beatboxing is hip to be square.

Fortunately, voters probably won’t stick with Blake. Melinda and Jordin look destined for a faceoff. Melinda should win, as the only contestant who interprets fresh arrangements of old songs and sings them strong in perfect pitch.

Christian rightists ought to be pleased with Melinda. In her official “Idol” bio, she says if she wins the first thing she’ll do is thank “Jesus and my mommy.”

But Melinda peaked too early. Simon has stopped cooing over her (he sways viewer-voters). And Melinda is shorter in the beauty contest with Jordin, who’s tall, 17 and powered up with momentum from judges and conservative religious observers.

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Sunday, May 13, 2007 - 3:57 pm ET
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37 Comments

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  1. Lauren and Joshy

    Hmmm… Seems like a good theory to me. I haven’t been able to understand how Jordan hasn’t been voted off yet. Especially during the weeks where she really did not do well, like Bon Jovi week.

  2. American Idolizers » Blog Archive » Is Jordin Sparks Getting the Christian Vote?

    [...] Read more here: Jeanne [...]

  3. American Idol Fever » American Idol May 13, 2007 10:05 pm

    [...] But Marni has noticed something about American Idol. So far, the second place winners have …Is Jordin Sparks Getting the Christian Vote? Second, I think that Jordin Sparks is a talented girl and a worthy contestant on American Idol. [...]

  4. Gerri G

    Are you two kidding she was great singing those Bon Jovi songs. Get out of here

  5. A’kyra

    Haha, Ok here we go. I am not so sure if i am hooked on the idea that Jordin is still in b/c she is getting the “Christian Votes”. In reality it could be a good theory, however, I think people just like her. I agree she had a couple bad nights where she did not do as well as she has in the past (Bon Jovi nite) But even with that, she really didn’t deserve to be kicked off b/c overall she is an amazing and talented person. What kind of show would AI be if we kicked off a contestant the first time they made a mistake. If that were to happen, no one would be left right now b/c they have all had at least one bad night by now. So we can’t really say she should have been gone since she messed up Bon Jovi night. As for her getting that Christian vote, she very well may be getting that vote but I sincerely don’t think that it is as overwhelming as Sanjaya’s voters…so the bulk of her votes are coming from talent. She’s a sweet girl and has a true talent for performing and whether or not she wins, she will do well in the industry. Sorry Gerri but she did blow the Bon Jovi song, but she was diplomatic about it and recognized where she failed and just got up and brushed it off…she’s cool!
    Jeanne, as usual you bring up some great points and eye openers…I like that, keep up the good work.

  6. Alan

    Thanks for alerting me to the fact that Jordin is a pro-life Christian. I will definitely vote for her now.

  7. A’kyra

    Oh goodness people are you serious??? Do you really vote for someone in a SINGING competition b/c of their political views? You are going to vote for Jordin NOW just b/c she is pro-life? So you don’t think she can sing at all? That is so narrow minded. (And pardon me for expressing my opinion as you did.) Just like the folks that voted for Sanjaya b/c he is “cute” instead of his ability, or not, to sing. Geez people did you vote for Bush b/c he can read a book upside down???? OoO he’s real talented! And we see where voting for him got us! I sure hope that photo of Jordin isn’t a typical creation from photoshop! Then will you be disappointed and NOT vote for her b/c YOU made a hasty decision. When they say ignorance is bliss….I had no idea…
    Ta-ta for now.

  8. Gerri G

    A’Kyra, you made some really good points. Your questions caused me to pause. After that brief pause I came up with this. If I voted for Jordan it would be because I thnk she is the total pic, so when you add MORALS, she has more value..

  9. Lauren

    Sorry, Alan but I have to agree wit A’kyra. This is stupid. You shouldn’t be voting for people just because they are pro-life. That’s just ridiculous. This is a talent show – not battle of the religions.

  10. Gerrykimm

    Voters associate more with contestants with womb they identify themselves. Unfortunately that is the reality. Voting is a very very subjective thing, mainly because you pay for your votes. I dont find it painful supporting Jordin because of her pro-life actionism. On the otherhand, she is a great singer I want her to win. I do however acknowlegde Melinda as being the better singer vocally…but it is all about the entire package. Jordin has it all.

  11. A’kyra

    GerryKimm, I think you meant whom here: contestants with womb they identify…LOL…in any case you are right. Melinda has the experience and the strong voice and Jordin has the total package and I think that is mostly b/c she is more versitile. But all three left are great and will have promising careers. At this stage of the competition I feel like they are all winners. There has been so much controversy and drama on this year’s show, it doesn’t even matter who wins at this point. All three are awesome in their own way and whomever wins, definitely deserves it.
    BTW…Melinda was absolutely amazing last night! Jordin was great too and she seems to sing so effortlessly…she’s so awesome! Blake is the man…he is so creative….awesome show last night! :)

  12. GerryKimm

    A’Kyra…Thanks a lot for the correction. I didnt even notice it was wrong. As a matter of fact, All 3 were awesome yesterday.Melinda seemed to have successfully paved her way into the finale. The tie should be between Jordin and Blake.

    I have a hypothesis.

    If Jordin makes it to the finale, she will win AI. Reason: Blake’s fans would easily move over to Jordin.

    If Blake makes it to the finale, he loses. Jordin’s fans would easily identify with Melinda. They sing the same Genre of music. Blake type is different.

    Melinda is in trouble if Jordin wins the tie. Blake cannot win AI.

    What do you think?

  13. Lauren

    Gerrykimm, I have to disagree with you. Why would Blake’s fans easily move over to Jordin? They are completely diffferent. I am a Blake fan and I am telling you that I would not go over to Jordin’s side. This is just my opinion but Jordin has a harder time singing songs than either Melinda or Blake(please don’t jump down my throat). If you listen to Jordin singing she barely reaches the notes. She tricks you by singing loudly and with a cute yodel. If you look away from the screen while she sings you will hear it. She is a beautful girl and that is hard to see past. That is why I disagree with you. She doesn’t have the whole package. Also Jordin is not the most versatile. Out of the three she is the least versatile. And last night they gave two pretty easy songs for Jordin to sing.

  14. A’kyra

    GerryKimm & Lauren….I think you both raise very good points here. I have heard Jordin’s yodel in many of her songs and that is one thiing she should really stop doing. I don’t think every song needs to have that just like Blake should not do the beat box in every song. Please don’t get me wrong b/c I absolutely adore all 3 contestants that are left.
    They are all unique and special in their own way as I have said before.
    GerryKimm, As for your hypothesis, I agree with you on the Jordin issue about Blake’s fans moving over to Jordin BUT ONLY if you meant if Blake doesn’t make it to the final. I say this b/c I can’t really agree that they would swap if it came down to Blake and Jordin. Mainly b/c they both have a big fan base and their fans for the most part are dedicated. If it comes down to Blake and Jordin it will be tough to decide. Blake has a fresh new upbeat style that people like. He is also talented in making musical arrangements. Jordin on the other hand has that big voice and can belt out a song almost effortlessly.(and I did say almost for those who don’t think she is that great)
    Overall I think the top 3 this year is a tough one b/c they are all good in their genre. Melinda is more of that sultry old school R&B and gospel while Jordin does better with a pop song and is fun and energetic and young people love her. Blake has something new and fresh and hip. He’s cute and he can sing really well. His new style may actually do better than we expect. I actually believe that Jordin and Blake will probably do better if they do not win. And before anyone jumps down my throat let me explain.
    The winner is committed to AI and whatever they want them to do. Whereas if they go out on their own and get picked up by a label, they have a better chance of doing their own thing. Look at Jennifer Hudson and even Chris Daughtery….I just think for both Jordin and especially Blake b/c he is the most unique would do so much better if they didn’t win and be tied down to AI. Melinda is different in my opinion b/c I think if she wins Idol it may help her to branch out in different generes. But all in all it is just my opinion and if anyone out there has a different take on it please let me know. I welcome any new eye openers :)

  15. snuffy

    HAHAHAHAHA

    Isn’t Jordin (a little) too black to be such a REDNECK PISSANT? And a little too female to denounce women’s rights?

    She’s the Clayton Bigsby of American Idol!!!

    What’s REALLY hilarious, though, is that someone would vote for her based solely on the fact that she’s pro-life.

  16. A’kyra

    Geez Snuffy, what makes you think Jordin is a “REDNECK PISSANT”? I wasn’t aware there are such experts on who is a redneck and who isn’t….interesting job you have there and I see you are semi-successful at it. (errr i think)
    Ok so let’s disect your statement/opinion and see if we can uncover the mystery of your thinking.
    So you said Jordin was a “Redneck Pissant” hmmm a “redneck” is defined as: A white person regarded as having a provincial, conservative, often bigoted attitude.
    So as you have already noticed, Jordin is not white. She also is not a bigot. A bigot is a prejudiced person who is intolerant of any opinions differing from his own. Hmmm hey Jeanne sound like anyone else you know? Definitely not Jordin. Now a “Pissant” is a person or thing of no value or consequence; a despicable person or thing. Jordin is definitely NOT worthless or she would not be on American Idol at all. Funny thing is she is probably worth more than you are right now but I will retract that statement and ask the jury not to remember I said it ;) my point is “snuffy” Jordin is far from worthless and granted I don’t know your monetary status it is highly likely that SHE (yes Jordin) is worth more than 70% of us right now.
    Just b/c she comes from a mixed marriage and has her own personal beliefs on “pro-life” issues does not in any way warrant her being labeled as a “Redneck Pissant”. Actually that comment makes the author of it seem more of a “Redneck Pissant” than the person he/she is judging. (let me know if you didn’t get that and I’ll break it down further to you)

    Also, Clay Bigsby is not a real person just a fictional character. I thought someone of your caliber would realize that and know that it is senseless to reference someone after a fictional character that the majority of society doesn’t even know. Another thing, do you even watch American dol, or have you stopped watching since Sanjaya said his goodbye? I ask b/c American Idol has nothing to do with race or religious status. So your comments are somewhat useless and become null and void.
    I could address the whole “Jerry Falwell” comment but out of respect I will not.
    I think we all appreciate your honesty in submitting your comment and for essetially letting us all get a good laugh out of your “pissant” opinions and funny “Redneck” attitude.
    I look forward to your reply. I am sure you will have as many words for me as I do for you so…bring it, but please let’s be intellectual about this…K hon’?

    Ba-bye

  17. Gerrykimm

    Now the tie is between Jordin and Blake…Jordin has a greater chance of winning this time. Melinda fans would easily switch over to Jordin. Blake fans need to be much more dedicated than ever. If left to a one to one voting, Jordin wins AI

    It was such a disappointment to have Melinda leave at this stage.

  18. A’kyra

    I totally didn’t expect that. I am still shocked….I really thought Melinda would stay and it would be a toss up between Jordin and Blake. WOW….I think GerryKimm may be right on this one…Jordin may have it.
    I am still shocked about Melinda. She was never once in the bottom and she got voted off after she had the best night….WoW…
    Definitely the most interesting season ever!!!!

  19. Gerri G

    after Melinda getting booted off the show, I am convinced thatsince the top ten will be as successful and the winner. I believe some of the people that end up in the top ten, get offers that have a time limit, and these people have to leave in order to meet the time allowed. So cheer up everyone.

  20. K-Bob

    So if Jordin is getting the so-called “Christian Right” votes…..who are the dope heads voting for Blake? Personally I think he beat boxes too much, does it where it doesn’t belong. Of course this is my opinion. I don’t have to vote for Blake because I don’t like him.

    So let’s go a little further…..I couldn’t stand Fantasia. So who voted for her? All those on welfare and living in the ghetto?

    Don’t hammer me, I think both scenarios are stupid. People vote for who they like, not their political/religious views (as someone else stated).

  21. Lauren

    A’kyra, excellent points if I do say so myself. I do not agree with pretty much most of what Snuffy said except for the part where she says “What’s REALLY hilarious, though, is that someone would vote for her based solely on the fact that she’s pro-life.” She’s got a point there. Calling someone a Redneck Pissant is just plain old unnecessary(unless you say it in the private and seclusion of your own home and not). So, you both have a point. I personally don’t like the fact the fact that she is holding up an anti abortion sign but this is not about religious beliefs.

  22. Jeanne

    Okay, good gracious, so much happened after I put up this post that it must have gotten away from me. I cannot believe some of the things I am reading so, as the editor and moderator of this site, I am making the following statements:

    1) This post was written for informational purposes only and is not necessarily a reflection of my opinion.

    2) I would not vote for someone due to their religious affiliation or their participation in a rally because I do not think that it means anything about them. HOWEVER, I do understand the tendency for many people to vote for people with whom they most identify. We can only rely on what we see and that’s the issue in a nutshell.

    3) I am leaving most of the comments exactly how they are for several reasons. This is mainly because they are not quite racist but they are DEFINITELY borderline and the intelligent debate that has taken place will not make sense without them. I will not tolerate racist comments. I am going to edit some of the comments, however. The Jerry Falwell one in particular.

    4) I understand the frustration of some of you because you are either pro-life or pro-choice. This is what happens when religion gets brought into a discussion. I’m not sure religion should have a place in politics or law-making since not everyone is of the same theological background.

    A’kyra, thanks for holding down the fort while this one slipped under the radar. You definitely have shown your dedication to this little site. :)

    To everyone else, keep going with the discussions. Just because I edit your comments, it doesn’t mean you are not welcome here or that I disagree. Sometimes we just have to find better words to convey our message.

  23. A’kyra

    Yeah Lauren I just thought that calling Jordin that was a little harsh. She definitely didn’t deserve that.
    K-Bob I won’t hammer you lol I do agree that people should vote for who they like not for their political stand. I bet it’s those same people who vote for talent when it comes to the presidency…lol… ;)
    Gerri you may have a point there but I am not sure why any label would put such a short time limit on signing if the person is so amazing like Melinda. I’m sure they would wait. She may be worth more in a business sense after AI depending on how big she would have come out with AI. But I don’t really know the politcs of the behind the scenes business side but it would be something interesting to look into. I know once they get to the top 12 I believe, they get a nice little salary ;) and the top 10 get a really nice salary for the tour…at the end of the day it’s all about the money.

  24. A’kyra

    Jeanne,
    No problem I don’t mind holding it down plus snuff needed it. That was just plain mean.
    :)

  25. Gerri G

    A’Kyra, I love reading your comments. Here is why I believe there is a time limit. As the producers,agents and record companies watch the artists, they start to form the stage tours. I believe they decide who goes in which slots on the tours. Which means that albums have to be recorded, clothes created, etc…that takes time. Think about it. Although, the winners were choosen by the people, some of the albums didn’t sell. People like Clive Davis has experience as to voices that will sell, without being seen.

  26. A’kyra

    Gerri G
    Thanks for opening up my eyes on this. You have some good points. Now that you have opened my eyes to this, it makes sense. This season has definitel changed AI that’s for sure.

    On another note, I read this article
    http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15310288/
    and although most of it I kind of figured, I still found it absolutely insane that the AI folks actually turn down sending someone through to the judges that can sing versus someone who is in costume. After reading this woman’s experience with the audition process it really makes you think and understand what she was told “this is a reality show not a talent show” hmmmmm
    read the article and let me know your thoughts.

  27. Jeanne

    Gerri – thanks for that explanation. It makes sense.

    A’kyra, that article is insane!!!! What exactly are they looking for?

  28. A’kyra

    I have no idea Jeanne! I don’t know what to think anymore…but it almost makes sense now with all the things that went down this season. hmmmm
    Crazy!

  29. Mercy

    Can we please enjoy this competition for what it is—a singing and performance competition–and not inject religion into it. They’re not competing for the next American Evangelist after all! Jordin is talented, there’s no doubt, but I prefer Blake overall! Go Blake.

  30. Becky

    I think you all missed the point with “Thanks for alerting me to the fact that Jordin is a pro-life Christian. I will definitely vote for her now.” I personally thought they were saying that it was silly to want people to vote AGAINST someone because of their abortion stand. Jordin’s politics have note been mentioned on AI – only her church and her volunteer work. And by the way, I am acquainted with Jordin, and the tears are not fake. She is, after all, 17, and she is very attached to the other contestants. It’s nice to watch a competition where the contestants aren’t out to beat each other to a pulp. I’ll bet these people stay friends for the rest of their lives.

  31. A’kyra

    Becky,
    I think you may be reading our comments wrong since you are “Aquainted” with Jordin. I really didn’t see where anyone said they were NOT going to vote for Jordin b/c of her political views. However, someone did point out that since it was brought to their attention her political stand that they would vote for her. In either case we are all basically trying to say that it is a talent competition in which contestants are critiqued based on their ability to sing and entertain the crowd while making the song their own. Point blank that’s all we are tryint to say. It does not matter ones political or religous views in this competition. Jordin’s fans love her and vote for her b/c of her musical abilities and that it. People that love her or hate her b/c of her political or religious views really have no bearing on this competition. Jordin is an amazing and talented young lady and can sing her butt off for a 17 year old. She will do very well in her musical career no matter what her political or religous views are.
    So I think we all pretty much are keeping our stand on that comment that was made regarding voting for her b/c she is pro-life. That’s not what this competition is about. If she were running for Supreme Court Justice then that is a whole other story.
    As for your comment on “Contestants aren’t out to beat each other to a pulp” I am not aware of any season of AI where that happened but if you have some inside scoop on AI fighting drama or even a comparison to another similar reality show, please share :)
    Thanks Becky :)

  32. Tim

    Check out Michael W. Smith’s website. She sang with him last year and he’s got a “vote for Jordin” banner on the home page. That’s a pretty significant endorsement. T.

  33. Jeanne

    Becky – I really hope that all of the contestants forge lasting friendships. They have gone through an amazing experience together and hopefully it will be the tie that binds!

    A’kyra – in terms of former contestants fighting, I think Justin Guarini’s hair gave Kelly Clarkson a run for her money, lol.

    Tim – M.W. Smith is, indeed, a powerful endorsement among Christian music fans. He is a great songwriter and singer if memory serves me correctly. Thanks for the tip!

  34. A’kyra

    LOL…I think your right on that one Jeanne :)
    Ok, so I decided to do some research and see what other Idol drudge we can find. Not sure if everyone knows about this one and I’m just last to know but I read an article that said: According to our spy, some of the religious female contestants are none too fond of one Miss Antonella Barba, since racy photos of the off-key idol began popping up on the net.

    No confrontation has erupted, but it’s been downright chilly behind the scenes, with the idolettes now waiting to see if America decides to keep the photogenic Barba around for another week, heaven forbid! http://www.savingfaceforum.com/?cat=12

    I bet there was some behind the scenes drama with that one…lol….I’m sure the other girls were a little bitter behind that whole scandal…..AI is a trip!

    I found something else for anyone who wants a good laugh…Those pic’s are obviously photoshoped…amatures!
    http://www.cracked.com/index.php?name=News&sid=1828

  35. A’kyra

    LOL…you may be right on that one Jeanne….LOL

    Want to see something really funny?????

    http://www.cracked.com/index.php?name=News&sid=1828

    Obviously photoshopped! But still a riot!

  36. A’kyra

    Tim- very interesting site. He definitely loves him some Jordin. She will be successful no matter what tonight’s outcome is.

  37. lokimikoj

    Hi

    Good work, webmaster! Nice site!

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