Joshua Ledet Takes The Heat Off American Idol

Soul singer Joshua Ledet took the heat off American Idol producers after a tumultuous week that saw producers disqualifying the 'gentle giant' Jermaine Jones after it was discovered he had a violent criminal record. Jermaine's axing was part of Wednesday's show, though all eyes soon turned to another contestant.

According to USA Today, Joshua opted to sing Michael Bolton's version of 'When a Man Loves a Woman' and received high praise from the judges, with Jimmy saying, "I felt I was in his house". The entire audience were on their feet for the young soul singer, with Steven Tyler commenting, "That was so good we were up halfway through it". The highest praise came from Jennifer Lopez who had no problems summarising, "The best thing I've ever seen on American Idol. The best thing I've ever seen". The stand-out performance will have come as a welcome relief for American Idol bosses, who had to disqualify baritone singer Jermaine Jones after it emerged that he had been arrested twice in 2011, once for a violent offense. Though some influential figures were reportedly keen to keep Jones in the competition - the fact that he is still wanted by police left them with no option but to axe him.

Meanwhile on last night's show, Colton Dixon, Shannon Magrane and Skylar Laine also impressed the judges and Hollie Cavanagh emerged as the frontrunner after a powerful rendition of Celine Dion's 'Power of Love'.