Twin Cities band member Reed Grimm is going live, now that he's among the final 24 contestants in this the 11th season of FOX-TV's "American Idol."
The 26-year-old from Ellsworth, Wis., moves on to next week's live episodes of television's most popular reality show.
On Wednesday's night recorded segment starting the show's cutdown from 42, Grimm faced the tribunal of three -- Steven Tyler, Jennifer Lopez and Randy Jackson -- to hear his fate.
The four reviewed his most recent performance, with Grimm going to his musical happy place behind the drums as he ratta-tat-tatted through a scat-filled rendition of "It Don't Mean A Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)."
While keeping Grimm alive for the ultimate reward as the show's "American Idol," the judges encouraged him to explore other singing styles.
Grimm is lead vocalist for the Shoeless Revolution, a Twin Cities-based foursome whose playlist includes pop, rock and funk.
Viewers must wait until tonight to find out whether North Mankato teenager Shelby Tweten will join Grimm among the final 24.
Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482
