I keep listening to Elliott's live performance of ''Free'' and the recorded version. As fantastic as the recorded version is, the live one is even better! How did he do that? Elliott only had 24 hours to prepare, hadn't practiced in weeks and was still in mourning.

Seaoned guest performers on Idol never sound so good live.

Not only did Elliott sound perfect, but he looked perfect and totally owned the stage.

Elliott's rare talent to sing so perfectly live is unmatched. Hands down, he was the best singer/person, ever on Idol.

Elliott has performed this song live countless times on tour, and gets a little better each time. He didn't have his band with him but the AI band are pros and did a nice job. I was glad to see that Sway could join him and sing backup: "Alright, Alright!"

Elliott's energy, soul and passion amaze me and he's shown so much growth since he left the show that it thrills me that the "casual AI fans" can see what a fantastic performer he is now!!

AvivaDove, I totally agree with everything you said. His talent is unmatched.

You ask, how does he do it? He does it because ONLY Elliott can. He is the best and most talented singer in the whole wide world.. :1word: :2thumbsup:

I agree. It is indeed a rare thing to hear live performances that even come close to the recorded versions of songs. And, the fact that Elliott sounds this way on all of his--or even better--always amazes me.

He truly is one gifted performer!! Luv him!!
:rocker: :awe: :rocker:

As Elliott says sometimes, he was born ready.

Elliott is amazing. There as so many "singers" who can't sing well live. Elliott sounds even better live. I'm so glad that he took the chance and tried out for AI. Best decision ever.

:awe:

I completely agree. His performance was stellar and he never misses a single note. He brings joy to the musical purists heart!

I was thinking the same thing. The irony is how I, as well as many of us, always felt compelled to come to his defense on the idol forums about his "lack of stage skills, personality, etc". I would constantly tell them to listen to his wonderful recording voice. Now it's "you have to see him live".
Granted his hard work in touring was like a crash learning course in performing, but he has a natural charisma which is highly palpable. I've seen many big name performers who don't have that gift which is such a natural part of who he is.

ELLIOTT: YOU ARE AN AMERICAN IDOL!!!!

So true!

Did ya'll see the interview he did with Perez Hilton from a few months ago? He was showing how AI contestants were instructed to play to the camera rather than the studio audience (which was hilarious) and I think he always felt awkward having to focus on which camera was "live" (stand here, turn here, walk this way, look that way, etc.) I noticed when he performed "Free" he pretty much ignored the cameras and played to the audience -- that's his comfort zone.

Yes, I saw that interview. He was so cute, hamming it up for the camera. I loved that he didn't look into the camera (except to show the note to Claudette) during his recent performance - it was a much more natural performance. Didn't he just own the stage that night??

Is he ever! Elliott is the first solo artist I ever saw in concert! The only one that I ever wanted to see!

When I say solo, I did go to Jingle Balls put on my Z100 in NYC (or was it KTU?) anyway, its a bunch of acts as Im sure most of you know..wasnt impressed..

But Elliott! Bowery Ballroom, was 3 back from the stage...unbelievable experience..

Elliott singing "Free" on AI was one of the best AI moments EVER, IMO.

I kept waiting for the Perez show to air again but I never saw it again. *sigh* Elliott was highly entertaining on that show.

I am really glad Elliott looked into the camera.. he has the most expressive face and wonderful eyes. I love that about Elliott.. I miss him looking into the camera when he sings.. and I really enjoy his face!

Now Elliott usually ends with him looking into the camera.. that is what I wait for...

You can watch it here... no downloading...Islate has a link to this in the media thread.

http://www.megavideo.com/?v=5XVVWJOG