Reality Check

For the first time in "American Idol" history, the top five of the show is all one gender -- in this case, female. After making it to the top six despite poor reviews by judges, Lazaro Arbos received the lowest number of votes Thursday night (April 11), forcing the 22-year-old Florida native to sing for the judges' save. Despite an adequate "Feeling Good," weeks of negative comments meant the judges weren't having it. "You've been a treasure to the show," Randy Jackson said, "but we're not going to use the save."

Following his elimination on "American Idol," Billboard chatted with Burnell Taylor who explained that he's excited to return to his hometown because "he's got work to do." He also mentioned that he plans to take Keith Urban's comments about him occasionally being "a bit pitchy" to heart as he works to further his career.

Rock week on "American Idol" brings with it the potential for powerhouse vocals and star turns, from high velocity scorchers to power ballads.

Teenage Californian "upgrades" herself into singing, dancing star with an album ready to drop.

“Idol” celebrated its 450th episode last night, sending Devin Velez packing and leaving only Burnell Taylor and Lazaro Arbos as the remaining boys in the competition. Following the show, Billboard caught up with Velez, who discussed his future plans and his time on the show.

The good news with "American Idol" this week? Apparently 'Motown Week' means less ballads on the singing competition, which after the last few weeks is a welcome respite indeed (let's thank Smokey Robinson, the mentor this evening). The bad? It's down to the top eight and still needs to fill two hours, so it's time for group performances!