NOTES FROM THE IDOLDOME: (1) Paul McDonald, completely charming in an exit interview: "I almost would feel guilty if I had won, or gone any farther, because I kind of had my own thing going beforehand, and I know exactly who I am as an artist. I'm super thankful that they kept me around this long. But I really want some of these kids — these contestants who want it so, so bad — to win it. Because they're the true stars and I'm just hangin' out, being on their team. Cheering them on."
(2) Next week: songs of the 21st century. Will Jacob sing "The Song Otherwise Known As Forget You"? Please?
(3) A tweet from @AmericanIdol an hour ago: "Holy pride of New Jersey....BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN in the studio right now listening to the idols sing!!!!"
