IDOL WATCH: Top 11 Jams to Elton John!

In the epic event that was last week's ‘American Idol' results show, the judges chose to use the only ‘save' of the season to hang on to Casey Abrams for another week - and rightfully so. The consequence of that decision however, is that two contestants will get the boot this week in what is sure to be a painful elimination.

In a recent interview with Ryan Seacrest, Jennifer Lopez commented on the event: "It was crazy. And we knew that it was kind of a radical decision because it was so early in the season. To be quite honest, there's been decisions that we've made or that I've thought about and I've made and I've pushed for that I thought, 'Oh God, did we do the right thing?' But that's one decision that I have not lost one ounce of sleep over. I just knew it was the right thing. Randy knew it was the right thing. Steven knew it was the right thing. This is one of our most dynamic performers. He's so interesting. He's so talented. I know it's crazy but we have to do it."

To follow up last week's craziness, the contestants got to sing the music of one of my personal favorite artists: Elton John. Not since season three have Idol contestants gotten to belt out the vast repertoire of the music legend. Wondering how they did? Read on!

Scotty kicked off the performances with "Country Comfort." Hmmmm...predictable. While the vocal seemed a bit safe, it showed off his signature twang and ‘lady-killing' notes. The song prompted Steven to say: "There's nothing I could say to you that an old-fashioned, high-heeled pair of cowboy boots couldn't fix." I'm not sure I follow. JLo complimented his instincts and Randy his improvement.

Naima put a reggae spin on "I'm Still Standing." Here is my question: why is it necessary to sing with a Jamaican accent if you don't speak with one? I didn't hate the song, but I just don't see how she will be able to get through tomorrow night unscathed. JLo wasn't into the remix but liked her performance quality and Randy agreed, calling the performance ‘corny.'

Tackling one of Elton's biggest hits was Paul, who sang "Rocket Man." I think the song was a great choice. I did not think however, that wearing that hideous jacket for the third time was a good choice. Randy appreciated his ‘quiet comfort' and Steven commended him for staying true to himself.

Singing a ballad yet again was Pia, who belted out "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me"- a song with a lot of Idol history (previously sung by runners-up: Justin Guarini, Clay Aiken, and David Archuleta). Quite frankly, I'm running out of ways to describe her perfect performances. Steven said that the song was "as good as it gets," while JLo liked that she tried to "break the barrier." Randy said that she "slayed the song" but gently urged that she picks up the tempo next week.

Stefano sang one of my favorite Elton songs: "Tiny Dancer". Though he consistently impresses me with his interesting phrasing choices and clean riffs, the vocal wasn't anything special. JLo liked that he connected with the audience. Steven commented that his voice can sometimes sound ‘a little Broadway.' Again, I'm not sure I follow.

Lauren tackled the megahit "Candle in the Wind" and boy did she bring it! A perfect mix of subtlety and power, the emotional performance gave me chills within the first few notes. This might have been her best performance thus far. Randy agreed, saying the performance was ‘sensitive' and ‘hot.' Steven raved: "You keep singing like that and you'll be able to afford the rest of that dress!"

James rocked out to "Saturday Night's Alright (For Fighting)" Kicking off the chorus with a toe-touch onto the stage, he definitely achieved his goal of giving the song an arena-rock vibe. It wasn't my favorite James performance, but it didn't disappoint. JLo said that the performance made her forget that the show is a competition. Randy loved that he always has a good time onstage.

Singing "Daniel," Thia brought her best game tonight. The song suited her voice perfectly and she performed it beautifully. I'm not usually her biggest fan, but I was very much into her haunting rendition of the classic ballad. Randy called her out for being safe, while Steven disagreed, saying that she "sang a great Elton John song well."

Casey tried to redeem himself with a very poignant "Your Song." Remaining seated by the piano for the entirety of the song, the performance was nothing short of spectacular. YAY! Old, awesome Casey is back! Randy commented that the song was brilliant and tender. Steven commented that he sings different every time, and that's the mark of a true artist.

In perhaps his most dramatic performance yet, Jacob sang "Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word." His facial expressions were a little much for me to handle, and the vocal was underwhelming compared to last week. Am I crazy for thinking that the performance seemed a bit drag? JLo loved the arrangement and Randy commended him for using restraint.

In tonight's pimp spot was Haley, who killed "Benny and the Jets", in a good way. I was blown away by how perfectly her fierce growl complimented the chorus. JLo said that it was "a great way to end the night." Steven reduced his thoughts to a few simple words stating, "You sing sexy."

My official consensus of the week: Lauren and Casey gave the best Elton John performances and Naima the worst. While Stefano and Thia didn't do terribly tonight, I wouldn't be surprised if they join him in the bottom three (based on their previous track records).

Don't forget to check in with BroadwayWorld's IDOL WATCH tomorrow night to find out which contestants don't make it past the double elimination! American Idol airs Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8pm on Fox. Vote for your favorite contestants at Americanidol.com!

Miss the Top 11 sing Motown last week? Click here for a full recap!

Emmy Award-winning AMERICAN IDOL is created and executive produced by Simon Fuller, Founder, 19 Entertainment, a division of CKX, Inc.; and executive-produced by Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; Ken Warwick, Executive Producer, FremantleMedia North America, Inc.; and Nigel Lythgoe, President, Big Red 2 Entertainment.

Among the many American Idol finalists and winners to appear on the Broadway stage are Fantasia, Justin Guarini, Jordin Sparks,Diana DeGarmo, Ace Young, Tamyra Gray, Constantine Maroulis, Frenchie Davis, Clay Aiken and Taylor Hicks.

Visit americanidol.com for exclusive videos, interviews and photos, as well as special behind-the-scenes information and all of your AMERICAN IDOL news.