American Idol 2013 finale update!

Kree Harrison vs. Candice Glover.

Ryan Seacrest came out looking spiffy as usual in his designer suit as he introduced the show quoting American Idol judge Nicki Minaj, declaring this finale was battle "Kreedom against Candygirl."

Because Kree won the coin toss last episode, she sang first. Dressed in a modest full-length, pale pink, shimmery dress, she sang "Angel" by Sarah McLachlan standing still, her voice confident and unfaltering. Harrison's performance was so steady and serene it almost seemed as if she were warming up in front of her dressing room mirror.

Next, Candice Glover entered the stage for her first song, Adele's "Chasing Pavements" in a bright red top with flashy jewelry, knee-high boots and black skinny jeans. Even though her outfit seemed to bring a lot more attitude to the stage than Harrison's, and her voice sounded equally firm and secure, Glover's facial expressions revealed anxiety and nervousness.

Despite the differences in their performances, both Kree and Candice received standing ovations for their first songs. Interestingly, Idol judge Randy Jackson disagreed with American Idol Producer Simon Fuller's choice of songs for Round 1, but praised both Candice and Kree for their treatment and individualization of the vocals. Mariah Carey agreed with Jackon's assessment while Keith Urban and Nicki Minaj remained silent.