Ground Report

 In any other year, Danny Gokey probably would have won American Idol.

But Adam Lambert’s over the top talent and Kris Allen’s, funky folk style made it difficult for the talented Gokey to survive the final three.

But he will not be forgotten.

Danny Gokey’s deconstructed rendition of Joe Coker’s "You are So Beautiful" (written by Billy Preston) should be on the radio right now.

Reminiscent of R. Kelly’s "I Believe I Can Fly" mixed with a tint of gospel legend Fred Hammond, Gokey’s version solidified him as a burgeoning blue-eyed soul star.

No offense to the mulit-talented Justin Timberlake, but Gokey’s singing style leans more towards the gruff vocals of the late Gerald Levert than say Timberlake’s soulful, but fragile timber.

Yet the fate of Danny Gokey’s post idol success will rest in the hands of today’s cookie cutter R&B producers, who in recent years has done a terrible job of producing talented R&B male singers with more than one or two octaves.

Outside of the Neptunes and a few neo soul producers, there are very few Quincy Jones, Jam & Lewis, La’Face or even a Devante Swing (Jodeci) in today’s production arena. These producers knew how to handle gifted vocals, by not only harnessing or at times pushing their vocal abilities, but also crafting music that fits their musical style.

It would be tragic to watch Gokey’s career derailed by lesser talented writer/producers or record companies who are more concerned about dance moves and style than substance.

In the meatime, take a minute, soak Gokey’s vocals and bask in yet another stellar performance from the American Idol’s best season….ever.