HispanicBusiness

Susan Boyle, sit down. The limelight this week once again belongs to American Idol's amazing Adam Lambert.

The 26-year-old Lambert made Paula Abdul cry Tuesday night with another breakthrough performance on American Idol's disco-themed musical evening. Lambert performed "If I Can't Have You," from the iconic 1970s classic film Saturday Night Fever.

Randy, Simon and Kara also gushed over the performance, with Randy blurting out "Dude, you are ready now!"

While every season of Fox's American Idol usually turns out some great talent, such as Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and Chris Daughtry, this year Lambert has created phenomenal buzz on the Internet and in homes across America.

The former theater actor has been virtually flawless in his performances, possessing a scary combination of vocal ability, stage presence and a likable personality.

The chameleon once again changed up his appearance Tuesday night, opting for the clean-cut, perfectly coifed, runway model look. Some weeks he goes pretty-boy and others he cakes on the black mascara, combs the jet black hair forward, adopting a darker gothic look. He slowed down the up tempo "If I Can't Have You," in favor of an emotional ballad, drawing a huge ovation from the judges and crowd.

But other stars on American Idol are emerging, most noticeably Kris Allen, who seems to be peaking at the right time. The clean-cut, baby-faced 23-year-old from Arkansas, sang Donna Summer's "She Works Hard For the Money," while playing his guitar. Allen has major girl appeal and could use his squeaky clean looks to launch him into the finals with Lambert.

Other stars of the night included Allison Iraheta, who performed Summer's "Hot Stuff." The 16-year-old has a shot of making it the finals also. She's impressed the judges all season with her powerful vocals and comfortable stage presence.

The early show favorite Danny Gokey, who sang "September" is falling behind the pack a bit, despite his great vocals. Quite simply, he's just a bit boring and predictable. In a show with Lambert and Allen, he's coming across unoriginal.

Matt Giraud, who the judges "Saved" last week after voters eliminated him from the competition, did a decent job with "Staying Alive." He's not the most talented and there's virtually no way he can win the competition. But he's humble and likable, which may keep on the show another week or so.

Anoop Desai, who has consistently been in the bottom three all season, turned out a weak performance of "Dim All The Lights." In his pink vest and awkward-fitting suit, Desai looked totally out of place last night.

With two people being eliminated tonight, it's likely that Desai's song choice will be prophetic, except his lights may go out altogether.

Finally, Lil Rounds sang "I'm Every Woman," proving once again that the only two people who should be singing this song are Chaka Khan and Whitney Houston. Rounds was mediocre and uninspiring and will probably join Desai in the bottom two.

But who knows? It's American Idol and it's live television so anything can happen. One safe bet: Lambert will still be with us next week to create more media buzz.