'American Idol' contestants have long to-do lists

[March 30, 2010]  NEW YORK (AP) -- The latest "American Idol" castoff says downtime doesn't exist when you're on the show.

"There are no days off," says 24-year-old Paige Miles.

After Wednesday's elimination show, there's little time for sad goodbyes and reflection.

The contestants are required to have decided what song they'll sing for the following week by Thursday mornings. On Friday, they usually record the song for iTunes, and Saturdays are shoots with mentors, such as this week's guest, Usher.

On Sundays, they film music videos. Monday is filled with more recording and rehearsing. The contestants also try to fit in shopping for that week's shows, as well as interviews with hometown media.

Miles says the jam-packed schedule can affect the contestant's song choice.

"We think about (that) while selecting songs," she said. "What can you truly push out everyday in rehearsal? What can you really commit to over the next several days?"

Last week, she was sent home after singing a version of "Against All Odds" that Randy Jackson described as "terrible" and Kara DioGuardi said it was possibly the worst vocal of the season.

The 10 contestants now remaining on "American Idol" will take part in the annual summer tour after the season ends.

___

On the Net:

http://www.americanidol.com/

[Associated Press; By ALICIA RANCILIO]

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.