full size Scotty McCreery Sings During the American Idol Finale on May 22, 2012
Credit: Michael Becker/FOX ©2012 Fox Broadcasting Co.

Season 10 champion Scotty McCreery knows a thing or two about surviving an American Idol finale, so what advice did he have for Season 11 finalists Jessica Sanchez and Phillip Phillips? After performing on the show last night, Scotty caught up with reporters on the Idol red carpet to tell us what he told Phillip and Jessica, and what he thought of their performances.
 
Wetpaint Entertainment: Do you have a favorite out of the two finalists?

Scotty McCreery: You know, early on I decided I can’t have a favorite because I really know how each and every one of these kids are feeling. I’ve been in their shoes, I know how their heart’s pounding before the show and the nerves, and their stomach’s in knots. I feel for them because I know the nerves they’re going through. But afterwards I know they’re relieved. And I’m relieved for them, because I know they did great.  

Did you get to talk to them at all?

I saw Jessica [Sanchez] before the show and I told her good luck, and I know she’d do good. I saw Phillip [Phillips] after the show, and I said, “Get ready because you’re not going to be sleeping for a while.” Just a little advice.

You know what this night is like, when the judges declare a winner of sorts. What’s it like this evening for the contestants?

Like, who won Round 1? Who won Round 2? You know, I don’t know if I won a round last year. You just have to have fun with it, and it’s TV and that’s their opinions. They’ve been in the business for years, and we’re still the newcomers. I’m still the newbie but I’m still trying every day to take stuff in, but that night you’re really on pins and needles trying to figure out what tomorrow’s gonna hold. Nobody’s a fortune teller.

What are your thoughts on Jennifer Lopez maybe leaving after this season?

I love her on the show. I’d hate to see her go. She’s been a great choice. I was on her guinea pig season and it was cool having her out here and Steven [Tyler], but whatever happens, happens. She’s got a lot going for her, so she’ll be fine.

Which song did you like most tonight?

The Whitney song. The very first one. It’s been awhile since I’ve seen that. I mean, every song had me standing up tonight. And I only got to see the first two of each, because I had to go backstage, but she’s something else, ain’t she? She’s good. And for Phillip. “Stand By Me.” I like the way he changed it up a bit. He didn’t do the cliché version you see a lot. He did the Phillip Phillips version. I liked it.

Are you in touch with the contestants from your season?
Yeah, I was texting James Durbin the other day. I was in school when he told me he was down the street playing a gig with Buckcherry, so he’s doing good. I think Lauren’s playing a night at the Greek and I think I’m gonna try to head down there and see her open up for Sugarland. And Haley’s album came out today! Everybody’s doing good and I’m really proud of Season 10.

 

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