The final seven contestants faced more than just the judges’ opinions during Michael Jackson theme week on Fox’s The X Factor.  It was a Jackson family parade with Michael’s mother, three brothers and kids in the audience. Just like last week, two acts will be cut on tonight’s elimination episode.  Here’s what went down:

Josh Krajcik, the only Over 30s contender left, took on “Dirty Diana.”  Along with the judges, I was worried for Josh this week since this category doesn’t fit his raspy, rock style.  He performed a gritty version of the track which will probably get him through to the next round.  However, Josh is going to need to bring something different to the table if he wants to win the five million dollar prize.

Rapper Astro, who has battled with having a poor attitude the last few weeks, sang “Black or White.”  As he has previously done, he changed the lyrics to the song, which is getting a little old.  Leave your own lyrics from your album, Astro.  That is, if you ever get the chance to record one.

My favorite contestant Drew stuck with her stripped-down style during her rendition of “Billie Jean.”  Now this is what I wanted to see from Josh!  She sat in a chair and simply sang the song.  While her slowed-down versions of songs could start to get stale by the time the competition is over, I think she’s going to make it to the finals.

Drew

I thought that Rachel Crow would have been one of the standouts during Michael Jackson week, but her performance of “Can You Feel It?” was an awkward and lackluster rendition.  Rachel looked nervous and for good reason.  I think she’s going home.

Marcus Canty also seemed like he would be able to pull off a performance of epic proportions during Michael Jackson week.  He went with “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing).”  The only impressive thing about it was his back-flip, which took away from his vocal performance.  Given that Marcus was almost cut last week, I think he’s a goner. 

Chris Rene added some beats to MJ’s “I’ll Be There” which made the arrangement of the song a bit strange.  His vocals were on point, and I enjoyed the rap that he added close to the end.  I think he’ll be back next week.

Melanie Amaro gave the best performance of the night with “Earth Song.”  Melanie has been the underdog throughout the competition, but she proved this week why she is still around.  Not only did she sound good, she looked great.  She gets a few more points in my book after this performance, but I don’t think she will win the whole thing.

Melanie Amaro

There will only be five acts remaining after tonight’s results show, which will include a performance from Tinie Tempah.  Until then…

Images: Ray Mickshaw

Katherine Epstein (@RTNowRadio) for RightNowRadio © 2011