With Bono currently laid up with a back injury, you can get your U2 fix from Lee DeWyze’s American Idol winner’s single. I love the fact that both singers get to choose a different song to release f they win….it seems much more sensible and tailored than the X Factor norm of choosing a generic and cheesy ballad which will be released as a first single no matter who wins.

On last night’s final show, Lee covered U2′s Beautiful Day. Guitarless, he looked slightly uncomfortable up on the stage and a little exposed. He mangled those big notes and though his performance wasn’t too bad, from where I was sitting, it wasn’t wonderful either.

Judges Comments:

* Randy Jackson: Once again it started off a little interesting. I always love seeing you walk or dance while you’re singing, coz it’s not what you do. I feel you man, I feel you. But by the middle of the song, when you hit the high notes in the chorus you started getting your groove back. And that’s the Lee that I love and remember, the guy with the big strong rock voice. Good on you man, good on you.

* Ellen DeGeneres: Watching you grow to where you are right now, standing on the stage making it this far, and actually taking it in. I was watching your eyes and you were fully present for that song, taking in every bit of these people’s energy. And I love that you were able to do that. I’m so proud of you, you did a great job.

* Kara DioGuardi: Lee, I think you got swallowed up a bit in that song. You had some good moments and some not so good moments. But I want to say this about you. You’ve grown the most on this show, you have one of the most commercial voices of the season, and you deserve to be here tonight.

* Simon Cowell: I think you made the most of it. I felt a lot more effort. Look, this is my final time I’m ever gonna judge this show. I just want to say about you is that this is what this competition was designed for. Somebody who needs a break, having a normal job, working in a paint shop. You’ve worked hard and remained a nice person throughout, and I genuinely wish the best for you. You’re a great guy.