Paris Bennett - 2006 American Idol Paris Bennett

Tonight American Idol announced their 2006 finalists - 12 men and 12 women. Among the male finalists was the sixteen year old Paris Bennett. You might recognize Paris Bennett has the petite girl with a booming voice - the girl who speaks softly but sings magnificently. I believe Paris Bennett is the best musician / singer in the American Idol contests (and judging by the early audition rounds, Randy, Simon and Paula would agree) - but I struggle with the following:

1. Is Paris Bennett too young to win? She's only 16. Shes rather green. And the American Idol journey has many ups and downs... age and experience will be key.

2. Does Paris Bennett's voice translate well into today's pop music? Her voice is classic, jazzy, etc... but does it work for today's MTV generation?

Lets wait and see... but I'll be voting for Paris!

Feb. 20th Paris Bennett Update

Fox posted their Paris Bennett factoids - the night before the first week of voting begins (Tuesday is the women's competition, Wednesday is the men's, and Thursday is the voting). Below are the Paris Bennett facts from Fox:

Age: 17
Hometown: Fayetteville, GA
Audition City: Greensboro
Favorite Female Artist: Beyonce
Favorite Male Artist:Usher

February 28th Update for Paris Bennett

Paris Bennett continue to tear through American Idol and is, in my opinion, the best contestant on the show. While everyone agreed that "Wind Beneath my Wings" was far too mature and plain for the 16 year old Paris... she killed it and gave a fantastic performance - particular in the final verses when she ran through the high notes. Simon, Randy and Paula critiqued the song choice but all agreed that she was fantastic.

THE 24 AMERICAN IDOL FINALISTS (SEASON 5)

Ace Young
Ayla Brown
Brenna Gethers
Bucky Covington
Chris Daugherty
David Radford
Elliot Yamin
gedeon mckinny
Heather Cox
Jose “Sway” Penala
Katherine McPhee
Kelly Pickler
Kevin Covais
Lisa Tucker
Mandiza Hundley
Melissa McGhee
Paris Bennett
Patrick Hill
Rebecca O’donahue
Robert Bennet
Stephanie Scott
Taylor Hicks
Will Makar

Note: As the 2006 American Idol season continues, I will continue to update these individual singer and performer guides with information about each of the Idols. Enjoy the guides and feel free to let me know if there is information I've missed or should post!