Totally 80's Song Suggestions

Next week the Top 16 will perform hits from the 80's. We've been hearing that the contestants are limited to a list of 50 songs to choose from, so I'm basing my recommendations on iTune's 80's pop #1's, 80's hits (with a strong emphasis on the top 50) and 80's ladies.

First off, let's highlight a few songs NO one should do:

-Any Cyndi Lauper, but especially "Time After Time" - it did not go over so well with the last two Idols who attempted it.

-"Maniac" - after the side-splitting Kia commercial with the dancing car salesman, this song can never again be taken seriously.

-"Celebration" - unless they want Mr. Happy to call them a "ghastly wedding singer"

-"I Love Rock 'n Roll" - How many times did we hear this during auditions?

-"Against All Odds" - officially the most oversung number on Idol at 5 times in 6+ seasons. 10 bucks says Archuleta does it.

Here's what I recommend instead:

Aussie: It's too bad only the title of "Down Under" is really fitting for Michael. I'm suggesting either "Free Fallin'" or "Gimme All Your Lovin'" but I'm not totally satisfied with either.

J-Cast: If you want to play it safe, I second IdolJenn's previous suggestion of UB40's "Red, Red Wine." If you want to take a walk on the wild side and change things up: "Jessie's Girl." (Either way, ignore Paula and keep the guitar.)

Rocker Cook: I'd kinda like to see his take on "Jenny (8675-309)," but it's probably safer to go with Journey's "Anyway You Want it" if only for bonus points from Jackson. Please, no G&R.

Noriega: I think Danny could turn out a fabulous version of "Oh Sheila," "I'm Comin' Out" and anything by Cher, but what I really want to hear is Boy George's "Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?" Wedding Singer style.

Pretty Boy with the High Voice: It's "Eye of the Tiger" for Luke, and the mute button for me.

Gollygeewillikers Boy: I'm going to suggest "Only Love," but does it really matter what Archuleta sings at this point?

The Token Black Guy: MJ's "Rock With You" but only if you put your soul innit.

Rudy Hernandez: If Chikezie don't do MJ, then you can. Otherwise it's "Just Got Paid" 'N SYNC style.

The Irish Chick: "Total Eclipse of the Heart" - this is the song that landed Jessica Sierra in the top 12 in season 4, and even though she's a hot mess now, it was an awesome performance and is well suited to Carly's voice.

The Nanny: Please, no Stevie Nicks. How about either "Back on the Chain Gang" or (even though it couldn't touch the Jessica Simpson version) "Take My Breath Away" instead?

Krazee Eyez: I'm suggesting Belinda Carlisle's "Heaven is a Place on Earth" for Kristy.

Cruella: Either "Addicted to Love" or "Hit Me with Your Best Shot," although I do think she could also do a mean version of "Dancin' with Myself."

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow: What are the odds that Asia'h doesn't attempt a diva song? I hope she resists the urge to sing Whitney or Tina and instead sings "Love is a Battlefield."

Kady Spears: "I Think We're Alone Now" or "Straight Up" but she should do them as Britney.

Smirkado: If Asia'h doesn't sing a diva song then Syesha probably will, but I say she try "Funkytown" instead.

Lullaby: Nevermind the nickname, you've got one of the best voices left in the competition. Showcase it on either Bette Midler's "The Rose" or Sinead's "Nothing Compares 2 U."