How Upset Are We Really?

Let's be honest…

We may have given a damn about the first upset of the competition - Ms. Sloan - but do we even now remember why we liked her? Not so much. And, by the end when Melinda Doolittle is taking the crown from that gray-haired guy from last season, we will not remember the ghetto fabulousness of Ms Stephanie Edwards either.

No, she did not deserve to go home yet. But she really didn't have a chance at winning. It all comes back down to the demographics! She was in direct competition with Melinda and LaKisha, and there was no way she could possibly usurp either of them. She just lacks the "likeability" (not that I like LaKisha, but she's far more talented and I know that a lot of people really do like her.)

The question is: Who is the heir-apparent to Stephanie Edwards fans?

Her loyal voters are obviously going to pass to one of three contestants: Doolittle, Jones, or Sparks.

But who is the most like Stephanie?

Melinda Doolittle has the same soul that Edwards had early on and lost as the competition progressed. She is consistent (unlike Edwards) and it wouldn't be surprising for Edwards fans to jump on her band-wagon. But is Doolittle too old? She definitely lacks the young contemporary edge. And she is so nice. I think that those that appreciated the ghetto in Edwards won't adore the humbleness that has set Doolittle apart.

LaKisha Jones has the same ghetto-fabulous factor shared by Edwards. But, may I say, Jones may just be too black? I know how that sounds, but she is the Effie in this vocal horse race. Her sound is much more intense than the light and contemporty sound that Edwards fans were committed to.

And then there is Jordin Sparks. Jordin has a youthful presence and very contemporary pop-relevant sound. But does she have the soul? Can she embibe the fans who had clung to the ghotto factor? Um, no. She has about as much soul and ghetto in her as one of the Cosby kids.

It will be interesting which of these three ladies comes out on top in this race.

The bright side to this is that we know one of the boys will be leaving next week, as NONE of the Edwards votes will be going to any of the gentlemen.

Please, sweet lord jebus, let it be Sanjay.