After watching last night’s episode, I realized something. I’m not really gonna care who wins American Idol this season. It kind of reminds me of the 2000 presidential election. Jordin’s a sweet kid. She’s also a powerhouse vocalist who can sing a power ballad as well as some pop-ier fare. She’s probably got the most mass-market appeal of anyone left in the competition. That translates into dollar signs for the show, which probably explains why Seacrest, Lythgoe and Cowell have lauded her in the press.

Blake, who is tops at DialIdol right now—just barely edging out Miss Sparks, may not be the most technically gifted vocalist, but he’s also highly marketable and, for lack of a better term, “contemporary.” Blake fits into the industry right now as is. He could make some interesting and entertaining music. I don’t think he’ll win, but…he won’t be sitting around idle after Idol for long. He’s a shoo-in for a recording contract.