David Cook — “Analog Heart” Pulled from Amazon.com!

Tuesday, April 22, 2008, 12:27 AM | David Cook

David Cook

Amazon.com just removed David Cook’s 2006 album “Analog Heart” from its inventory.

Wow.

And so I post about it being #1 yesterday, and then it gets pulled. And to think I was one of the last ones to know. Are TPTB reading Rickey.org? It’s not my fault! (LOL)

Meanwhile, Carly Smithson’s “Ultimate High” is still available.

126 Comments for David Cook — “Analog Heart” Pulled from Amazon.com!

1

This is ridiculous. Ridiculous! *shales head in disbelief*

Bouffe on April 22, 2008 at 12:39 am
2

Dang, that is just wrong!

Here’s another place to purchase it for download.
http://davidcookrocks.fuzz.com/album/Analog-Heart-David-Cook

There are several places to get it. I hope they don’t all start disappearing.

Hello AI Intern!!

laureldj on April 22, 2008 at 12:40 am
3

If the purpose of all this ‘ringer’ crap and jacking with Analog Heart is to p*ss me off – then mission accomplished.
Why is everything only a ‘controversy’ when David Cook does it?
KLC, Carly, Michael all have pre-idol cds available from MAJOR LABELS
Syesha was on another reality talent show
Archie won star search
Brooke was on a different reality show and she has an indie cd
Jason was on Cheyenne’s show on MTV

and yet, somehow, DC is the ringer because he SELF-PRODUCED an indie cd. He’s never been signed to a record label.

hollyg9211 on April 22, 2008 at 12:44 am
4

Darn!!! I bookmarked the site earlier today since I didnt have time to listen and buy songs then, but I guess that doesn’t matter anymore!!

Blakeluver on April 22, 2008 at 12:44 am
5

SO LAME.

Meanwhile, you can still purchase albums by Carly, Michael, and KLC.

michelle on April 22, 2008 at 12:46 am
6

I just hope it was David who asked to have it removed and not the AI machine. I’m all for fairness but this is bordering on insanity. I mean, what’s next?

DLynne on April 22, 2008 at 12:46 am
7

I don’t get it – why is DC getting all of the scrutiny? First, he gets reamed for doing covers of songs (even though other contestants did the same thing)… and now this whole controversy regarding Analog Heart? Why is only his CD being pulled from Amazon? AI is doing one heck of a job at pissing off the Cookies and WordNerds! I guess there’s no question at all now about who the front-runner of the competition is… His name is David Cook – this is the only plausible reason for why he’s getting picked on and singled out by the media.

meddie on April 22, 2008 at 12:49 am
8

I’m worried about our Cookie. This is just another burden he shouldn’t have to bear – on top of everything else he’s dealing with. Then I read today that he’s sick. He has such an open-hearted approach to things. Let’s hope that doesn’t change.

SugarCookie on April 22, 2008 at 12:58 am
9

I’m with you Meddie. Why is it everyone else can do these things and he can’t? It’s frickin’ ridiculous

Natalia on April 22, 2008 at 12:59 am
10

that’s just weird. i really don’t understand the “controversy” that fox news wrote about earlier in the day.

DC doesn’t have a deal, he’s currently an indie artist. seems like a bruhaha over nothing.

bigepaz on April 22, 2008 at 1:00 am
11

I hope this is just a stupid attempt to rile up his fanbase. (It’s working!!!)

Stupid Friedman, stupid Clive, stupid 19……!

michelle on April 22, 2008 at 1:02 am
12

bigepaz, this is another non-controversy. This “ringer” ridiculousness makes me laugh because I remember not long ago when DC was almost cannon-fodderish. Until “Hello”, when Simon had to do some damage control with, ” I reeeeaaaallly hope we see you next week” … because he had been so dismissive of David in the first couple of rounds.

laff on April 22, 2008 at 1:15 am
13

It’s starting to appear that TPTB at AI may NOT really be secretly supporting David Cook for the eventual win even though DC’s popularity momentum has risen enormously! The eventual crown seems reserved for David A, seriously. I mean, David Cooke win or lose, belongs to 19 Entertainment, especially since AI re-finangled the contracts for up to 3 years, I believe. A little fuzzy on the details of that legality, so if anyone recalls the highly binding contracts these artists are under this season, do share.

As I think about this, David Cook could be runner-up, & do as magnificently as say, Clay Aiken or Chris Daughtry, in terms of sales. The show/mgmt wouldn’t have to invest nearly as much into DC’s promotion, etc., because the fans have discovered the depth of this musical talent via iTunes, youTube & Yahoo & cannot.get.enough.of.him!! There is no stopping the impact of the internet!

David Cook would be effective as the 2nd placer, while the focus of mgmt would be absorbed in David A’s development. He could be molded & directed into the performer of their choice. I guess a standards kind of singer. And David A is sure to do well, also. Don’t know whether he is capable of achieving at the level anticipated by David Cook, however, but AI/Nigel Lythgoe is setting out to have their cake & eat it too! They would have the nice clean-cut kid with his gentle ballad style win & the edgy rocker with pulsating vocals, exit the gate with clear anticipated profitability!

aprylette on April 22, 2008 at 1:15 am
14

That’s lame too, if they are sabotaging DC in an attempt to help DA win.

They should be crazy happy to have DC as a winner, they wouldn’t have to waste time and money writing songs for him, building up his image, he’s already good to go.

I want my fave to win for once!!! ::sob::

michelle on April 22, 2008 at 1:20 am
15

That’s ridiculous. You can still buy Carly’s mp3s. But honestly, while people expressed fears earlier today that this story will hurt DC, I think it might actually help him. It gets his name out (…just spell my name correctly… and all) and it makes everyone who hadn’t gotten his album yet even more curious about it.

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 1:22 am
16

Just mentioned on the other thread – there’s no way Fox News is going to be allowed to come out with a story that’s going to hurt their corporation’s #1 TV show – which means AI planted the story to raise ratings. And/or maybe because with DC overpowering both Amazon & iTunes charts, they were trying to head off the controversy that might hurt their best seller.

Wondering if AI gets more $$ if they wait and put it out on iTunes after the show’s over.

Hard for me to believe AI wouldn’t want DC to win – as it would rocket their credibility above anything it’s ever been.

ann11 on April 22, 2008 at 1:22 am
17

ann, but they had least should have been fair and pulled all the other contestants out. Not just the one who sells. If there is a problem with having previous material sold, it should apply for everyone.

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 1:25 am
18

I’m so mad about this. So mad. There are at least 3 other Idol contestants with albums on Amazon. I guess David doesn’t deserve to have his album there because he’s, what? ACTUALLY SELLING???
I just have no words. If Carly, Brooke, and Kristy’s albums continue to sell while only David gets negative press and his album pulled, I think I’d almost prefer to have him off the show and free to do his own thing. I’m amazed at how unfair this whole thing is.

Jolene on April 22, 2008 at 1:26 am
19

I wonder if the reason Brooke’s and Carly’s albums hadn’t been pulled out is because they are on actual labels and they can’t just pull them out, while david’s is on David Cook label, which, obviously, means him alone.

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 1:29 am
20

They don’t have the power to pull Carly’s.

laff on April 22, 2008 at 1:30 am
21

Yeah, laff, I was thinking the same. But my point still applies. you can’t double standard. And if the standard is forced by Carly’s company (i.e can’t pull it out) they should swallow this and not pull anyone one just because they can.

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 1:33 am
22

I’ve been a lurker on Rickey for a while now. The current controversy actually spurred me to register and comment.

Don’t forget the source on this story. Roger Friedman is a gossip columnist not a reporter. He is also a shill for Clive Davis, the recently demoted Clive Davis.

To me this story suggests to me that TPTB do see DC as a potential cash cow and that they want him to win to restore the AI credibility and that Davis is trying to undercut them now that he’s out.

jlt001 on April 22, 2008 at 1:35 am
23

This is so infuriating. Like Holly and Meddie said, this crap only seems to become an issue when it’s David Cook. Who cares if the other contestants sing covers of covers? Not a big deal. Until David Cook does so and brings the house down. Then it’s OMG! He sang a cover of a cover! *Gasp*

Everyone’s albums have been on Amazon since before Idol and other than Carly’s, none of them seemed to be fussed over. But now that David Cook’s is gaining popularity, now it’s suddenly a big deal. So stupid. Especially when his was self-produced (“Label: David Cook”? Come on people, use your brains here! Last time I checked, this was not major label! lol).

dreamr on April 22, 2008 at 1:36 am
24

But the publicity does generate discussion & questions & David Cook’s name gets bandied about. So, that’s a good thing for the show & fans get riled up! And DC could be the benefactor of much increased interest especially by the Final 4.

aprylette on April 22, 2008 at 1:38 am
25

I don’t see how a contestant having a #1 album, even if it was just amazon, is BAD for the show.

It’s unfair if they pull David’s and not the other’s just cause they can bully him and not the other’s labels (or whoever has the rights to their music).

michelle on April 22, 2008 at 1:41 am
26

“Then it’s OMG! He sang a cover of a cover! *Gasp*”

i know, it’s insane. For crying out loud, it’s a show that is ENTIRELY about covers. And (too) many times there’s not even an effort to shake the original into something interesting (which is the key for a good cover, really, either that or singing very well and preferably both). So for me, even singing cover of a cover is being original (something the judges have been mocked for telling David, because he was singing covers of covers) because not just taking a song as is, but thinking what version of it (yours or otherwise) would work the best is still a sign of original thinking.

(not to mention that his covers of covers? better than the original covers anyway. And he also nailed them vocally, which is the important part anyway).

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 1:44 am
27

I know, Shimrit. They should just let it be for fairness.

They must have wanted the cd pulled – not because it’s selling (because it’s been selling for weeks already) – but because all these visible #1 placements all over the charts are cutting into their control of hiding relative competition placement. That was their reasoning for concealing itunes ranking.

laff on April 22, 2008 at 1:44 am
28

It is especially unfair because most of the money would be going to him. He produced it, he wrote it, and he performed on it. He has the potential to make more money on his little self produced CD than he will on his contract CD with 19E, even if he goes multi-platinum. It is unfair. I hope they let him put it back out on itunes and Amazon after the show is over.

jlt001 on April 22, 2008 at 1:45 am
29

The same rules should apply to everyone. You shouldn’t make Cook play by different rules just because his stuff sells.

Every week the press is in Cook’s face blowing something out of all proportion. It’s just plain unfair.

Natalia on April 22, 2008 at 1:45 am
30

“I don’t see how a contestant having a #1 album, even if it was just amazon, is BAD for the show.”

It’s not. But getting headlines for the show is even better for the show, even if it’s in the price of a participant’s individual success. We’re in the last weeks of AI, it’s the perfect timing to stir it up even more and hype it more.

(Disclaimer: I’m not in any way agreeing with that).

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 1:46 am
31

Shimrit_fs – agree that it’s an unfair double standard. Also agree that DC’s CD is unique in that it’s all owned by him – which makes me hope it was taken off with his blessing.

The GOOD News – I just got Analog Heart off a website that specifically supports independent artists ($1 more than Amazon at $9.99) – it was fast and easy – and I’m listening to it now – great. (hesitate to mention the site, in case it gets plugged, too.)

ann11 on April 22, 2008 at 1:47 am
32

I guess Cook fans can take some comfort in the fact that other than Archie’s Daddy stories no one seems want to bother writing about the other contestants anymore.

jlt001 on April 22, 2008 at 1:48 am
33

“That was their reasoning for concealing itunes ranking.”

That’s probably the only thing they did I can totally agree with. It’s very good reasoning. It’s still doesn’t apply to Amazon though, because on Amazon it’s not really that comparable. Not all the contestants have stuff there, and it’s not the stuff that they are being voted on the show. It’s like if they would go to youtube and delete all the videos of anything the performers ever did before AI (because God Forbid, the ranking will show who was watched more, DA appearing in front of Kelly Clarkson or DC doing “singin’ in the rain”, both very interesting to watch but irrelevant to final results).

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 1:49 am
34

Well, as a matter of fact, 19 HAS pulled some youtubes when viewership has gotten out of control. One of the first Billy Jean vids and just the other day, a, Alway Be My Baby vid that was approaching 1 million hits was taken down. Of course, another 30 vids crop up to take its place…

laff on April 22, 2008 at 1:52 am
35

fix the obvious typos in your heads please.

laff on April 22, 2008 at 1:53 am
36

Makes me glad, though, that I got the CD off Amazon a few weeks ago.

By the way, and this is the part that drives me crazy the most, is the timing, because you know the production knew it was on there, since it’s been on there long before he even auditioned for AI, and if their researchers missed that (which there’s no way they did) they should be fired. Like I said, I can see why they can’t pull out Carly, and maybe if they could they would have pulled everyone away earlier this season. But you had 5 out of your top 8 with CDs on Amazon, 4 of them with mp3 download option enabled. You didn’t remove it the entire season, but you remove one just because there’s an article out there?

Again, I still think this plays to the hands of DC more than against him, which is a good thing as a DC fan, but it’s just not fair in general.

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 1:54 am
37

Shimrit_fs – i agree your reasoning is logical, but unfortunately this isn’t about logic, or fairness – it’s about the #1 TV show racking up ratings, and the public PERCEPTION that DC is a pro with an album out due to some jerk’s 10-second sound bite – the vast majority don’t know it’s a CD DC personally produced on his own, etc.

Sucks.

ann11 on April 22, 2008 at 1:54 am
38

and the grammar errors…

laff on April 22, 2008 at 1:54 am
39

laff – taking youtube clips of the actual competition is a different matter, because that’s like the itunes ranking. It’s relevant for the competition and they have the right for the videos anyway – it’s actually nice that they don’t take everything out. Swedish and French television does for some of their music shows for example.

But previously released material would be similar to previously recorded performances or videos. It’s not theirs. And again, not relevant for the competition ranking.

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 1:56 am
40

Is it possible David C decided to take it down himself because he doesn’t want ANYTHING to jeopardize his chances of winning? I mean, it’s conceivable.

laff on April 22, 2008 at 1:59 am
41

“the public PERCEPTION that DC is a pro with an album out due to some jerk’s 10-second sound bite – the vast majority don’t know it’s a CD DC personally produced on his own”

All very true, except for something I learned in my experience with covering and being involved with similar kind of events in the past. The vast majority of people who watch AI doesn’t even read those things, and if they do it’s by passing, without paying much attention to the details. And furthermore, they don’t care. Like I can promise you most people don’t know or care about DAs dad. people tune in to Fox on Tuesday night, and actually vote for the person they liked. If Carly is still in the running and her story about the album has been out a lot, it just shows you.

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 2:00 am
42

laff – that would be by far my favorite option. I wonder if there will be some press release at some point.

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 2:03 am
43

All I know is that it’s all Rickey’s fault.

laff on April 22, 2008 at 2:05 am
44

I don’t think this will ultimately have any impact on the outcome. It still all depends on the performance on Tues. night. The people who really pay attention to AI have known about Analog Heart and the REAL ringers for months. Casual viewers are still going to vote based on who they like that night. If anything this seems to have stirred Cook fans into a protective frenzy.

jlt001 on April 22, 2008 at 2:05 am
45

As has been mentioned, I think David himself had the album removed. He most likely got word that it was doing well on Amazon, worried about any rule technicality, and had it removed. Since it’s from his own imprint, it wouldn’t be difficult to do. Also, maybe he didn’t want his old material influencing votes, but I doubt that’s the case. I’m sure he’s happy people are checking his old material.

Violet on April 22, 2008 at 2:10 am
46

Shimrit_fs – yeah, I really don’t see how this can hurt DC – #1 on Amazon & iTunes shows he’s become a force of nature.

And solid reasons why – I am absurdly happy right now, listening to Analog Heart…

ann11 on April 22, 2008 at 2:11 am
47

laff #40 – even if DC wanted it down, he wouldn’t make such a big decision w/o discussing it with AI first – he’s contractually tied up with them out the wazoo right now, even if it is his CD. I’m sure he’d want their backing/blessing anyway. At the very least, it was a joint call.

ann11 on April 22, 2008 at 2:21 am
48

they had no choice.
DC was slaughtering the whole music industry. it’s either pulling him from Amazon or kicking him out of AI.
can’t you get it? this man is a music genius,
a Legend!
he is about to take over the whole music scene world wide.
the world awaits America-CROWN HIM!
DCFTMFW OF ALL WINS EVER
VOTE!!!!

cookmania on April 22, 2008 at 2:26 am
49

cookmania – love your posts

ann11 on April 22, 2008 at 2:34 am
50

cookmania, you’re right. Who would have thought that his indie record, released in 2006, would garner so much attention.

I often think that AI doesn’t truly know its audience.

DLynne on April 22, 2008 at 2:43 am
51

IN THE WORDS OF COOK ALMIGHTY:
“Second place has never carried me home”
i don’t wanna hear this c.r.a.p about second place america
billions fans of DC from around the world want to see him win it
do your job america and vote your fingers of for DC
don’t fail us
DON’T FAIL DC!!!

cookmania on April 22, 2008 at 2:50 am
52

He could have pulled it himself because it was causing yet another controversy. He doesn’t need another headache. I just hope that Friedman article didn’t do too much damage.

Natalia on April 22, 2008 at 2:56 am
53

I like Cook, but I would hardly say he’s slaughtering the whole industry. He had a really good week with gushing judges comments. It boosted the sales of “Always Be My Baby” (as gushing judges comments often do), and bumped his other songs up as well (which has happened to Castro and Archuleta at various points in time). That same bump came when people realized he had an indie album available.

Since Carly’s album wasn’t taken down, I agree with whoever suggested that Cook took it down himself. I don’t see Idol being that blatant, especially the day after the “story” broke. But think about it–only those contestants who have made an independent album have the advantage of proving they are truly marketable. The iTunes “Popularity” and “iMix” rankings are one thing–they are fueled by a lot of factors that don’t necessarily have to do with the quality of the music (judges comments and popularity of the song that is covered are the two biggest). Heck, “Innocent” is a great recording, but it wasn’t until “Always Be My Baby” got gushing reviews that most people bothered to download it.

What I’m saying is that in a certain way it is unfair. Jason, Syesha and Archuleta can’t prove that they can sell an album of original songs. Maybe they can. Maybe they can’t. But there’s no way to know. And when this “story” came out, whether filled with falsities or not, it highlighted that the album was there to begin with. And it made Cook seem legitimate where others can’t even compete.

Granted, I don’t think most people watching American Idol read the story. I don’t think most people watching American Idol realize he has an independent album out. But that doesn’t stop the blogosphere from talking, and reporting, and pointing out facts that have nothing to do with how the contestants are actually performing in the competition. The whole “ringer” story was unfortunate, but it was really a backhanded compliment, pointing out Cook’s success. Other contestants are dealing with rumors and scandals where there is no good to be found.

soundscene on April 22, 2008 at 3:19 am
54

jlt001 post 22

“To me this story suggests to me that TPTB do see DC as a potential cash cow and that they want him to win to restore the AI credibility and that Davis is trying to undercut them now that he’s out.”

My feelings exactly, plus I believe another fan base is also in on it.

David Cook’s fans will have to vote like crazy tomorrow so American Idol can get back their credibility.

Besides David Cook worked very hard for many years, and he deserves to win.

Good luck to David Cook.

Lovegoodmusic on April 22, 2008 at 3:41 am
55

got news for you soundscene
the cook slaughter started weeks ago, before “Always be my baby” was even conceived in DC’s brain
most of you are hearing about it just now
but it’s a process thats been going on for a while now
and yes it’s a slaughter-no other word apply in this situation.

cookmania on April 22, 2008 at 3:49 am
56

jlt001 #22 – didn’t notice your post until Lovegoodmusic mentioned it. Interesting re Clive Davis. Thanks for mentioning it. And Lovegoodmusic, interesting about “another fan base.”

The plot thickens.

ann11 on April 22, 2008 at 3:51 am
57

soundscene – you’re giving too much credit to the judges and too little credit to the viewers.

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 4:01 am
58

lovegoodmusic and ann11- Roger Friedman was used by Clive Davis to undercut Kelly Clarkson with My December when she had the temerity to want to record her own music. Read some of Friedman’s old stuff. There is much Clive love in his columns. Friedman also likes to hang around music circles (he has practically made his living off of Michael Jackson gossip) so I wonder if he knows someone who is in “anther fan base,” who just might also be in the music biz. Hmmm.

jlt001 on April 22, 2008 at 4:07 am
59

This is absolute crap. First of all, I can’t believe the article that started the whole thing. It was terrible journalism at its finest. Second, with all the experience everyone else has, DCook is the ringer? Riiight…what a load of bull. Also, the double standard of his album being pulled down when no one else’s has been is staggering…so the big labels get to make money off of sales, and DC can’t just because his album is actually selling?

#8 SugarCookie – “Then I read today that he’s sick.”

He’s sick?!! I heard about Jason being sick, but I didn’t know DC was as well. Where did you read that? Man alive…I am so nervous for tonight.

jssaks19 on April 22, 2008 at 4:58 am
60

This just pisses me off. They sent the guy with the pipe to take out his knees.

They’re messing with us — I really think they are. And now I remember why, year after year, that I swear that I’m not going to watch this crappy show anymore. They decide. *THEY* decide, not us.

Makes me want to join VFTW – truly. Although *THEY* don’t decide either.

I’m sad. But I’ve got lots of phones, two phone lines, three cell phones and two pre-teens that will dial over and over for $10…! (But they do really like Cook).

There you have it — like an idiot, I still vote.

Rickey – we need a headline demanding that Amazon take down Carly and Brooke and Michael’s cds as well.

wfowfo on April 22, 2008 at 6:32 am
61

All of the contestants are singing song written by someone else, arranged by someone else. Some of the idols, besides David C., also rearrange other people’s arrangements of songs. This is a singing contest. David Cook not only can be original enough to make songs his own, but he can sing very well, too! This is what it is all about, singing. Now, if people are treating David Cook unfairly, and he obviously was doing very well when his CD was available for sale, may I suggest that someone else has maybe alternate motives, maybe not so nice motives, maybe even illegal stuff going on there. Whether or not David Cook wins AI or not, he will still be the paying publics favorite. I would like to see David Cook win, but even if he doesn’t, he is already big and he will be bigger whether or not this other “CRAP” is going on. I love David A. too, but David Cook is still my favorite.

Squirrelly on April 22, 2008 at 7:33 am
62

reality check:
david cook does NOT need AI anymore.
the word about this genius is already out and the anticipation for his (pre/post idol) material is skyrocketing all over the world.
on the other end, AI better pray that he wins it and save their credibilty.
DC was born to make it to number 1’s and from now on that’s where he’ll always be
because this guy is not an ordinary artist
this guy is a PRODIGY!

cookmania on April 22, 2008 at 7:56 am
63

They must have wanted the cd pulled – not because it’s selling (because it’s been selling for weeks already) – but because all these visible #1 placements all over the charts are cutting into their control of hiding relative competition placement. That was their reasoning for concealing itunes ranking.

laff on April 22, 2008 at 1:44 am
—————————————-

I think you have hit the nail on the head laff. But if that’s the case, why didnt Amazon just hide the rankings as well? It smells of conspiracy.

Lucy has some ’splaining’ to do!

PrplDva on April 22, 2008 at 7:56 am
64

Don’t have time to read all the posts, but check this out:

http://mjsbigblog.com/david-cooks-analog-heart-pulled-from-amazon.htm

Could have written much of that post myself (and in fact I did yesterday on another thread here!!)

Guess we’re not the only ones majorly PISSED OFF. Go, David!!!!!!!!!

trishrosenthall on April 22, 2008 at 7:58 am
65

Okay, Friedman (Fox News), David Cook should not have an opportunity to compete because why? And because it’s out and selling now and theirs isn’t, that’s why? I guess you can rationalize anything you want to believe, even if it is farfetched. There is no way you can justify saying that David shouldn’t have an opportunity to compete. Let’s see, David Cook was on Star Search, so maybe he should not be allowed to compete. And several other top idols, including Carly Smithson, have produced records before, so maybe they shouldn’t be allowed to compete (I’m being sarcastic, here). I made a CD, but I haven’t tried to sell it. I guess I can’t compete either. Really, who’s paying you under the table, huh? This is a singing contest, and David Cook is doing very well. Stop the insanity, please!

Squirrelly on April 22, 2008 at 8:00 am
66

Oh my god.
I swear, if anyone else on the show with an album doesn’t get theirs pulled, and soon, no one’s going to hear the end of it from me…

I mean, be reasonable. It was HIS OWN investment- he made the album with his money, on his time, and with his talent. Let him reap the benefits of his work.

trendy on April 22, 2008 at 8:02 am
67

I made a mistake on my last posting. I meant to say David A. (not David Cook) was on star search (see #65), sorry ’bout that.

Anyway, I’m pretty sure that most everyone can see how unfair this is for David Cook. The only reasons I can think of are jealousy and unfounded self-gain for trying to undermine David Cook in this contest. David Cook is a great performer, great singer, and he has every right to compete next to the other idols that also already have produced CD’s and have been in previous contests. The only reason it is even being talked about is because David Cook is so good.

Squirrelly on April 22, 2008 at 8:07 am
68

First of all, no one knows who pulled it down. So no need to cry foul.

Secondly, you guys are still bleeding over the whole covers controversy?

heavyblow on April 22, 2008 at 8:08 am
69

Well, this is interesting. Perhaps it is simply for the reason that they are trying to keep the public’s perception of the final contestants on an even keel.

I hope that’s all it is. Pulling YouTube seems to indicate that is the case.

I have to admit, I have LOVED seeing it go to #1 on Amazon and checked the status daily, which is exactly what AI doesn’t want us to do apparently.

So glad I already downloaded my copy!

laff wrote:
Well, as a matter of fact, 19 HAS pulled some youtubes when viewership has gotten out of control. One of the first Billy Jean vids and just the other day, a, Alway Be My Baby vid that was approaching 1 million hits was taken down. Of course, another 30 vids crop up to take its place…

laff on April 22, 2008 at 1:52 am

txdcfan on April 22, 2008 at 8:09 am
70

OMG, he’s sick? Where did you read this?

OK, one GOOD thing about pissing us off – we will all be sure to VOTE VOTE VOTE tonight like crazy. It could even give non-voters a push to vote for DC to keep him on and not get complacent like Daughtry’s fans supposedly were (I didn’t watch that season).

txdcfan on April 22, 2008 at 8:13 am
71

Shimrit_fs I knew this story had “legs”

fluffy10 on April 22, 2008 at 8:15 am
72

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,351917,00.html

rickey, it’s not your fault.

you’ll get the blame, i suppose, if either david loses. if BOTH of them lose to carly, then you’ll really be at fault. kidding =)

vonjobi on April 22, 2008 at 8:17 am
73

Maybe someones Dad, who’s not a horrible stage dad started getting worried and started complaining that DC has unfair advantages because he has a previous album out. Just a thought.

I remember something about Katherines parents complaining about what the judges said about one of her performances in Season 5 and Simon had to practically eat his words during the elimination round and apologize and say he rewatched her perfromance and was wrong.You could tell he didn’t mean it.
DC has gotten so loved and popular I am sure daddy DA is not liking it…
I’m telling you some of these stage parents are ruthless.

candle602 on April 22, 2008 at 8:53 am
74

That’s it! I’m voting like a maniac. He’s winning this thing!

GwendolynD on April 22, 2008 at 9:04 am
75

It’s Primary Day in Pennsylvania, and I haven’t voted yet because I’m back here reading Rickey. This is crazy!

A couple of thoughts:

1. DC uses some profanity on Analog Heart (much to the delight of my 12-year-old!). Could TPTB have used that as a “breach of contract” issue? I’m sure the Idols have “morality clauses” they sign that can be enforced arbitrarily.

2. The Vegas odds-makers are holding fast with a DA victory. I wonder if TPTB are being pressured on a whole other level to knee-cap DC? See this: http://www.ogpaper.com/news/news-01859.html.

3. I said this in the earlier thread, but I need to say it again: I HATE FRIGGIN’ FOX NEWS! These major-league a**holes are owned by News Corporation, the parent company of FOX TV. Rupert Murdoch and his “Fair and Balanced” FOX News are all about the “free market” and “personal responsibility” until it cuts into their profits.

Okay, gotta go out and cast my vote for President! BO&DCFTMFW! (Sorry, couldn’t help myself, but between these two “contests,” I haven’t been able to sleep for a week. I’ll be speed-dialing for DC while I watch the Pa. returns tonight.)

trishrosenthall on April 22, 2008 at 9:09 am
76

#68, Isn’t it true that we need to keep on top of this covers controversy because there are people out there who don’t think for themselves and need someone to remind them that all of the singers (not just David Cook) on AI are singing someone else’s arrangement of those songs, and they are taking those arrangements and rearranging them to suit their own styles?

Now the controversy that David Cook is already established and shouldn’t be competing with other idol contestants (some of whom have CD’s out there, been in previous contests, probably better known than David Cook was when they entered AI).

Someone out there doesn’t want their favority to have to compete against David Cook…wonder why…hmmmm?

If they pulled David Cook’s CD, they should also pull the other idols’ CD’s. Fair is Fair. David Cook may be bigger than the Beatles. Keep it up, DAVID!

Squirrelly on April 22, 2008 at 9:24 am
77

Thanks to whoever posted that link to the other site where you could download the album. I’ve been wanting it a while, but was limited by Amazon’s OS requirements for Mac. This other site didn’t require me to have the latest system software to download.

hildegarde on April 22, 2008 at 9:29 am
78

cook will turn the music world upside down thats for sure.
and feel free to mention his name with the Beatles squirrely, cause he will join them in the music hall of fame i promise you

cookmania on April 22, 2008 at 9:35 am
79

#73 is just plain pathetic.

heavyblow on April 22, 2008 at 9:38 am
80

#76

What does the covers controversy have to do with this latest controversy?

the first is about the non-fans revolting. this has to do with TPTB.

heavyblow on April 22, 2008 at 9:42 am
81

hey wfowfo, thanks for the offer.

I live in Japan and unfortunately the A.I. show here is 3 weeks late.

If you can email me the song of DC that will really be great.

Thanks again.

aoi-bara on April 22, 2008 at 9:56 am
82

heavyblow – I remember you. You like to come on David Cook’s site and try to cause arguments. I mostly see you on DA’s site talking all nicey nicey about him.
#73 comment may be pathetic to you, but I’d bet it’s got some truth in it.
This is the last time I even bother conversing with you…

candle602 on April 22, 2008 at 9:59 am
83

Hey, does anyone know where I can view the video, I don’t know if it was Hollywood Week, but right before David made it to the Top 24 (I think) — the 3 judges all gave him a “yes” and DC said “I got you Simon.”

The only Hollywood week I can find is the Bryan Adams song where Simon gave him a “no.”

txdcfan on April 22, 2008 at 10:01 am
84

aoi-bara, you might try downloading from here. It’s an artist-direct site and might not have the same overseas restrictions as Amazon. Hope it works for you.

http://davidcookrocks.fuzz.com/album/Analog-Heart-David-Cook

laureldj on April 22, 2008 at 10:01 am
85

aoi-bara Hi I live in Japan too. (Although I’m American.) It’s why I come to Rickey’s site on, what is here Wed. morning to see how everyone did. I have to say I have been surprised about comments from those outside the US not being able to get itunes. I get it just fine in Japan. However, I do have a US iMac that was preloaded with itunes. All I did when I signed up with itunes was tell it that I wanted the US store. I don’t know if you could re-register with the US store? I have a Japanese server, so that can’t be the problem. Good Luck!

jlt001 on April 22, 2008 at 10:05 am
86

txdcfan… the only place I’ve seen that bit of DC is in the Happy Together video, right at the beginning when they showed auditions. I haven’t been able to find it anywhere else!

ElleMarie on April 22, 2008 at 10:05 am
87

I hope they do release the info at some point about why the album was removed. It’s really frustrating when things like this happen with no explanation and we’re left with nothing but our own theories.

Obviously, a lot of people will think the worst, so why do it without explanation? Maybe, David wasn’t getting a great deal from selling the songs on Amazon, or maybe he wants to repackage some of the material in a new album, or maybe it was the decision of TPTB because they aren’t getting a cut? I have no idea — wish that I did.

I do doubt that it is the fault of another contestant’s parent. But it just goes to show that when they do crap that seems blatantly unfair without explanation, all kinds of theories will be advanced. Then again, when has controversy ever hurt AI ratings?

Looking forward to tonight!

Go Davids!

laureldj on April 22, 2008 at 10:11 am
88

83 it’s here

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=D82c809pSxU

unfortunately they didn’t show his full second hollywood audition on the show only a small piece of it

cookmania on April 22, 2008 at 10:12 am
89

hi jlt001. I can accesss itunes U.S. however it won’t allow me to purchase any product since the payment location is outside U.S. It then eventually will redirect the page to Japan store. : (

aoi-bara on April 22, 2008 at 10:32 am
90

Thanks laureldj.

aoi-bara on April 22, 2008 at 10:36 am
91

Konbanwa aoi-bara. Ah, that makes sense then. I use my US account to pay for itunes. I’m glad I can because I can barely wait the until the next day to get my greedy little hands on the next DC studio track. Well, as it is late in the evening here, Good Night.

jlt001 on April 22, 2008 at 10:40 am
92

One of the missing pieces here is an interview Simon, Randy and Paula did with Larry King a few weeks ago when Randy and Simon indicated that David Cook was their favorite and they want him to win the whole thing. Now none of this is David Cook’s fault but before I discovered the story and Cook’s album on amazon I was under the impression that he was simply a former bartender that had a talent for doing some really good remakes of songs.

So in the minds of many are the comments by the judges on the Larry King show…it seems that David Cook could fart out a song and Randy and Simon would love it. That makes things seem unfair…especially to contestents who never hard studio experience whether they produced an album themselves or not. Of course Cook will be on top…his stuff is really good and you would expect it to be but it changes the contest for me from a real, raw talent singing contest into a competition which insures that the person who can sell the most albums for 19 Entertainment and BMG is propelled to the top.
Again this is not to minimize David Cook’s talent, although to me a lot of what he does sounds like Pearl Jam and its lead singer so I am not hearing anything radically new…and if David Cook wins that will be nice for him but I just feel like having people in the competition that are not truly inexperienced newcomers makes the competition unfair and certainly the judges declaring who they like the best and want to win makes me qusetion how impartial they are. Truth be told I actually bought a copy of the Amazon album yesterday because it was a good piece of work.

But I am talking stricly about the show itself now and its credibility…of course the cookies out there want him to win and David Cook can do no wrong and that is ok…all the conetestents have fans like that but it just seems unfair to me to have professionals or semi professionals competing against amatuers…and if we put down the flags for our favorites and look at the show from that point of view I am sure many will agree.

I don’t blame David Cook…I blame the show because once again they duped me into thinking Cook was just a bartender who was mega-talented instead of the truth that he has had previous recording experience.

ben_meova on April 22, 2008 at 11:40 am
93

What’s interesting about this is trying to figure out who’s pulling the strings – and from that, trying to figure if their motive is to help DC or not – or if he’s the pawn (who will get the last laugh, if he’s not laughing already).

Are Fox News and Fox’s #1 TV show working for or against each other? Is Clive Davis pissed? Is Murdoch closer to Clive or TPTB at AI?

http://idolator.com/382440/fox-411-columnists-anti+david-cook-diatribe-a-sign-that-clive-is-not-pleased

A quick Google search shows that news outlets are already picking up on this poorly written & researched and probably even more poorly motivated news article – even repeating the fallacy that Cook & Daughtry are friends.

Whatever is going on behind the scenes, the pressure is sure mounting for DC, when he’s already got so much on his mind.

Rock on, DC.

ann11 on April 22, 2008 at 11:55 am
94

ben_meova – you’re kidding, right? Or trying to stir things up? That’s such an old & naive line.

In case you’re just not up on these things – as numerous people are constantly pointing out, many people from Kelly Clarkson on have had songs and CDs and record deals PRIOR to AI.

Even Paula addressed this issue on air, saying that if you haven’t tried to make it in the biz before AI, then you don’t deserve to be on AI.

This season, unlike KLC, Carly and MJ, who previously had CDs and industry recording contracts, DC’s Analog Heart is an indie CD – NOT with a record company. He wrote it, sang it and produced it himself.

Kudos are in order.

ann11 on April 22, 2008 at 12:05 pm
95

“I don’t blame David Cook…I blame the show because once again they duped me into thinking Cook was just a bartender who was mega-talented instead of the truth that he has had previous recording experience.”

But they have all had previous recording experience, except Syesha perhaps, but even that’s not clear. Many of those already voted off have previous recording experience.

There will always be people who complain about whether the more experienced singeres (notice I did not say professional) ishould be allowed to enter the contest. Personally, I have enjoyed this season, even with all of the controversy, more than any other to date because the quality of the talent is so much better. If I wanted to watch the inexperienced, I could tune in to The Gong Show.

I want to see the best, not the best of the worst.

DLynne on April 22, 2008 at 12:10 pm
96

I am so furious about this, I signed up just to comment (love your site tho!)

What do you bet there is such a fan backlash over this that they make him get up there on Wed. and say it was all his idea to pull the album?

I am watching thru this season to support David, who I think is the most talented artist AI has ever had, and then I am done with this show!

seattlefan on April 22, 2008 at 12:10 pm
97

Ugh, sorry for the typos.

DLynne on April 22, 2008 at 12:11 pm
98

Morning fluffy – I’m still looking for the legs, though.

Shimrit_fs on April 22, 2008 at 12:12 pm
99

buy it on fuzz.com

just sayin on April 22, 2008 at 12:22 pm
100

WTF! Pull one album,pull them ALL! Poor Cookie, what is it going to be next week,”theaterscholorshipgate”? Give me a break, this man has so much to deal with in his life right now, he doesn’t need to deal with all this stupid nonsense.

JoC on April 22, 2008 at 12:53 pm
101

seattlefan – agree – will be interesting if they address this on Wednesday. I’m doubting it right now.

ann11 on April 22, 2008 at 12:54 pm
102

OMG #92 The judges go on TV shows every year and say who their favorites are and most the time those favorites don’t win. I remember Simon saying his favorite in 2005 was Daughtry and he didn’t win and he always said he didn’t like Taylor Hicks and Hicks won! It’s all just publicity. Paula always said she liked Elliott. It doesn’t matter who’s favorites the judges have, especially Simon, because one day he will say he loves them and cut them down on the show the next time.

As far as the show in the beginning Cook said he was a bartender and sang in a band at the bar. He liked singing in his band because he gets extra tips. As far as his album, it doesn’t seem to have made too big of a hit until he was discovered by AI. Now how is that anyones fault. It’s not DC fault and why should AI mention a album that wasnt even well know. Now that he is hot of course everyone wants it.
Most of the contestants left in the competition have CD singles or albums out. David A. was on that Talent Search Program and won, (I think, so I heard) so should he not be allowed to be on the show because he has been doing talent shows since he was a young boy and that makes him more experienced? Come on. You gotta have some kind of experience to be good enough to even get on AI.
David Cook is just exceptionally good and now people want to ruin his chances. He is just as qualified in all ways as the rest of the contestants. Only thing is, as far as I am concerned, he is the best singer, entertainer, and awesome contestant EVER in AI history!!!! Not to mention he is totally beautiful! lol

candle602 on April 22, 2008 at 1:03 pm
103

ben_meova, Besides the fact that many of the other contestants have CDs out and had recording contracts, maybe the reason that David Cook is so well-regarded by the judges is because he’s working really hard at this and his level of professionalism and talent is standing out. It is a level playing field so it’s clear when certain contestants stand out. Isn’t that what this show is all about? Those who challenge themselves and reach for greatness are often (but, not always) those who get the most accolades.

movin2thabeet on April 22, 2008 at 1:25 pm
104

In a nutshell, they want to be able to claim that they made David Cook what he is. They want to take credit for polishing a diamond in the rough.
The fact that David could have a top selling cd now…pre-polishing…spoils their fairy tale.

To legitimize the show, they need to show that winning matters. Pre-win, DC is already a star.

hollyg9211 on April 22, 2008 at 1:27 pm
105

ben_meova – Like ann11 said, DCook is not the only one to have an album out. Is this your first time on Rickey.org?? Carly had a MAJOR LABEL deal, where a label spent over TWO MILLION DOLLARS on producing and promoting an album for her. It went nowhere and she was dropped from the contract. Kristy Lee Cook also had a deal with a major label, recorded a single, it went nowhere and she was dropped. From what other people are saying, Michael Johns also had a deal with a major record label and was eventually dropped. David Archuleta competed on Star Search when he was younger and has studio songs he has recorded pre-Idol floating around on the web. Brooke White also has a pre-Idol album floating around on Amazon and unlike David Cook’s album, there IS a record label attached (though it’s only an indie one, I believe).

David Cook has – as far as I am aware – never had a deal with a MAJOR LABEL. His “Analog Heart” album was totally done ON HIS OWN. If you look at Amazon, it even says this: “Label: David Cook” … it was entirely self-produced. So what if he invested some money into making his own album pre-Idol?

—

#82:
*Applauds*

dreamr on April 22, 2008 at 1:35 pm
106

RollingStone magazine makes it right for David Cook.

http://www.rollingstone.com/rockdaily/index.php/2008/04/22/american-idol-contestant-david-cook-tops-amazon-mp3-chart-then-vanishes

Lovegoodmusic on April 22, 2008 at 2:08 pm
107

Thanks for the article, Lovegoodmusic. Love that pic of DC. Yummmmmm.

imelda103 on April 22, 2008 at 2:23 pm
108

Interesting comment on that RS article. BTW, If you participate in the AI blogs, make sure you join the Analog Heart campaign currently underway to change your avi to the CD’s cover. Great idea!

movin2thabeet on April 22, 2008 at 2:30 pm
109

TO: Heavyblow (#80)-you blew it, he got caught by candle602 (#82) on the wrong site, I agree with you #82!

TO: #92-the reason David Cook is Simon’s and Randy’s favorites is because he is the best one. Maybe Simon and Randy got caught up in the moment, but that’s what happens when a song touches you, that’s what it is supposed to do. The thing about David Cook is, that feeling doesn’t go away. I can’t wait to see what he does next! I’m pretty sure that this kid could make us want to buy the telephone book song if REARRANGED in the David Cook style, of course!! Everything David touches turns to gold. I’ve never seen anything like it! And I don’t know anyone who would spend money to buy a CD just because Simon or Randy gushed. As far as farting out a tune: I don’t think that David Cook needs to worry about that, he’s doing just fine using the natural talents God gave him. GO DAVID COOK!

Squirrelly on April 22, 2008 at 2:33 pm
110

ben_meova (#92)-Your blog was really long, I have another comment–David Cook who? David Cook has every right to compete. I never heard of David Cook before AI, and David A. was in star search, and several other AI’s contenders put out CD’s. Is it because he is actually so good that he might win and you think this is not fair, because why? David Cook deserves to win. He has not misrepresented himself in anyway. If he had, he would have been kicked off of Idol. Frankly, you may be one of a very few VERY VOCAL minority who think that David isn’t original, etc. I’ll tell you that the paying public (majority) are saying the opposite, that they are going to buy David Cook’s music because it is original, and he is the real thing. No one will spend money on a bad copy of another singer or group.

Squirrelly on April 22, 2008 at 2:41 pm
111

TO: LOVEGOODMUSIC (#106) David Cook made it to Rolling Stone Magazine–I’m so proud of David! I’m really interested to find out the truth why Analog Heart was pulled from Amazon. I hope it comes out tonight on Idol.

Squirrelly on April 22, 2008 at 2:53 pm
112

Lovegoodmusic, thank you so much for that RS link. Thank god somebody bothers to check basic facts–although I wish they’d mentioned that DC produced it independently with his own dollars.

Am I the only one who finds the Mimi angle just a hair farfetched? I can be hopelessly naive.

(And oh, god, that is the HOTTEST photo of him ever. I LOVED him on that number.)

trishrosenthall on April 22, 2008 at 2:55 pm
113

Thanks to laureldj for posting the link to the cd. I was able to check it out that way.

I think the uproar is all about money. If DC wins this thing, 19 Media wants to make sure that his success will go in their pockets and not so much into David’s.

David’s good, but I like Daughtry better (and I’m not that much of a rock fan).

aifan2boot on April 22, 2008 at 3:05 pm
114

EW’s latest Power Rankings are out, and it looks like some AAs are going to go ballistic. Duck for cover, everyone!

And guess who’s still rated #1…

http://www.ew.com/ew/article/1,,20007164_20171835_20193902,00.html?xid=email-alert-americanidol-20080422-item1

trishrosenthall on April 22, 2008 at 3:19 pm
115

They wouldn’t have a right to his pre-Idol property, unless it’s in the contract. Just what kind of monster contract are they getting people to sign anyway? Do they get his car? His couch? Throw pillows? Kitchen sink?

Natalia on April 22, 2008 at 3:20 pm
116

#109, What? Huh?

How old are you people?

heavyblow on April 22, 2008 at 3:59 pm
117

Hi
I think you guys are getting carried away with conspiracy theories. We will find out tonite
or soon exactly why Analog Heart was taken down.
The Idol folks are not going to take a step
like that without having to remove all the other
CDs from download. They would have a law suit
on their hands the size of Texas. So lets
all take a deep breath, wait for the reason to come out and enjoy David while he on on Idol
and so very very gorgeous and sexy. I am a bit
fearful that when he leaves Idol, he will go back to the emo-rock stuff he loves, but please not the man-nail-polish. I also have to admit I adore him on Idol but I listend
to Analog Heart and,while the lyrics are amazing, – the songs themselves are not that great musically. Lets hope he steps up to a higher level of writing with good musicians when the show is over. Having said that, I adore the boy. He’s like a catepillar shedding his skin and transforming before our eyes.

jharris on April 22, 2008 at 4:04 pm
118

Good god! That picture of DC on the Rolling Stones site! Wow.
It inspired me to register on rickey.org just to make that comment.

hessilou on April 22, 2008 at 4:08 pm
119

#114:
Nice to see DC at the top! I’m so excited for him! He totally deserves it. He’s amazing!

dreamr on April 22, 2008 at 4:10 pm
120

Also #92 – I forgot to mention that David Cook sounds exactly like DAVID COOK!!!

candle602 on April 22, 2008 at 4:34 pm
121

Also #92 – I forgot to mention that David Cook sounds exactly like DAVID COOK!!!

candle602 on April 22, 2008 at 4:34 pm
122

Hey, I wasn’t done yet. LOL David Cook does not sound like some Pearl Jam lead singer.
That is what makes Cook so awesome, he has his own songs, and own beautiful voice and he’s not trying to sound like anyone but himself.
That’s what makes him so great.
And another thing, if Simon and Randy say their favorite is David Cook, then I have only one thing to about that, they are correct!!!

candle602 on April 22, 2008 at 4:37 pm
123

Looks like its available to buy again, but it doesn’t show on the rankings anymore. So they’ve made it “comparable” to I-tunes I guess.

seattlefan on April 22, 2008 at 4:54 pm
124

Oops, I didn’t look closely enough. When you type in Analog Heart, you get a bunchof other artists, including – are you sitting down – Carly!

seattlefan on April 22, 2008 at 4:56 pm
125

trishrosenthall, #114 – so nice to like them both. I’m happy whichever way it goies.

Go Davids!

Less than 3 hours till Idol time.

laureldj on April 22, 2008 at 5:17 pm
126

And poof, if it was back, now it’s gone again…all that’s left is a placeholder for the Audio CD. You can’t even see all the reviews anymore

michelle on April 22, 2008 at 5:27 pm