"A beautiful thing," in the words of Paula Abdul, is happening on American Idol, and it's the reason I continue to watch this season. I'm talking about the chemistry and readily apparent growing friendship between Adam Lambert and Allison Iraheta.
Last night the two sang a duet of Foghat's "Slow Ride." You can watch it here:
http://www.americanidol.com/videos/season_8/performances/adam_lambert_and_allison_iraheta_slow_ride
Here's what struck me: Allison was on stage first, and as Adam joined her on stage, he looked at her and a big smile crossed his face. The two continued looking and smiling at each other throughout the song, and before it was over, I said as I watched, "they're going to hug each other when it's done." Not only did they hug, but they continued to hug and smile and beam at each other throughout the judges' comments, who recommended that Allison and Adam record together. Adam readily agreed, saying that Allison was like a little sister to him.
Here's what struck me: Allison was on stage first, and as Adam joined her on stage, he looked at her and a big smile crossed his face. The two continued looking and smiling at each other throughout the song, and before it was over, I said as I watched, "they're going to hug each other when it's done." Not only did they hug, but they continued to hug and smile and beam at each other throughout the judges' comments, who recommended that Allison and Adam record together. Adam readily agreed, saying that Allison was like a little sister to him.
So, what's so special about all of this? In this day and age of hyper competitiveness, cursing and cattiness in reality shows and in shows where people are voted off or, on The Food Network, "Chopped," it is a refreshing thing to see two people going after the same prize actually support and bring the best out of one another. It's wonderful to see friendship, love and genuine sincerity between two people who didn't even know each other a frew months ago. It's like they have each other's backs; there's loyalty there! Wow! What a concept in today's world!
I have no doubt that Adam and Allison want the best for each other. They share a chemistry that is larger than each of them individually and encourages and supports, instead of tearing down and stepping over. Adam embodies that old fashioned sense of chivalry and mentoring that one doesn't see nearly enough of these days, and Allison is humble enough to not just allow it, but embrace and find joy in it. For these two, it's about accomplishing great art through collaboration, respect and truly liking one another! And any difficulties or differences of opinion they may have are worked out and each is willing to make a compromise to get to the finish line successfully. I think this is an example of "checking your pride and ego at the door" and "it's not about me." And the true prize for Adam and Allison is their dignity, integrity and a new (and no doubt lasting) friendship.
I have no doubt that Adam and Allison want the best for each other. They share a chemistry that is larger than each of them individually and encourages and supports, instead of tearing down and stepping over. Adam embodies that old fashioned sense of chivalry and mentoring that one doesn't see nearly enough of these days, and Allison is humble enough to not just allow it, but embrace and find joy in it. For these two, it's about accomplishing great art through collaboration, respect and truly liking one another! And any difficulties or differences of opinion they may have are worked out and each is willing to make a compromise to get to the finish line successfully. I think this is an example of "checking your pride and ego at the door" and "it's not about me." And the true prize for Adam and Allison is their dignity, integrity and a new (and no doubt lasting) friendship.
In this day of partisan politics, talk radio on all sides grousing non-stop over just about everything, violence in the news and in video games, and a general mood of schadenfreude (malicious enjoyment at the misfortunes of others), watching Adam and Allison is, truly, a beautiful thing.
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11
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