Waiting for tonight

OK, admit it. We are.

We're anxiously awaiting tonight's Idol (8 p.m., Fox), when the Elite 8 — including local guy Phil Stacey — take to the stage for Latin music night.

And did we mention Jennifer Lopez?

She's been mentoring Stacey, Sanjaya and the others for what could be a make-it-or-break-it week in the quest to become American Idol.

No brainer: Does anyone doubt that Sanjaya will be shaking his bon bon to a Ricky Martin number? (Remember William Hung and his Idol audition with She Bangs?)

So how about Phil and frontrunners Melinda and Lakisha? What do you think they'll sing? Let us know by clicking the comments link below.

Meanwhile, in today's Times-Union, writer Roger Bull looks at what other critics around the country are saying about Phil and his Idol experience.

And the Minneapolis Star Tribune's Randy A. Salas picks his Top 4 and Bottom 4 of the final 8 contestants and gives his pros and cons for each in this piece.

Watch tonight. Vent tomorrow: Idol blogger John Timpe will post his roundup of tonight's performances later this evening. (You'll find them on A-2 of tomorrow's Times-Union as well.)

Join the discussion: We want to hear what you think about Phil, Sanjaya and all things Idol.

Gary T. Mills/The Times-Union