‘American Idol’: Did the top nine out-sing ‘The Voice’ finalists?

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“American Idol’s” top nine took on the songs of their musical idols Wednesday night.

America’s verdict -- and the judge’s decision whether to issue a reprieve -- comes during Thursday’s elimination show.

That’s not the only unanswered question of the week. It remains to be seen whether NBC’s “The Voice” tops “Idol” in the ratings for the 18 to 49 demographic, considered highly desirable by advertisers.

INTERACTIVE | ‘Idol’ vs. ‘The Voice’: Who’s the best?

Last week, “The Voice” was sandwiched in second place in that age bracket between the “Idol’s” Wednesday and Thursday editions. NBC’s upstart rival singing competition had scored ahead of the venerable Fox franchise in a number of previous weeks.

Enough about numbers: How does the talent stack up between the shows?

Starting last week, Times music and television writers began ranking the five best performers, regardless of venue.

Music writers Chris Barton and Todd Martens each picked Jermaine Paul of “The Voice” as their top choice. Television writer Amy Reiter, who blogs about both shows, named “Idol’s” Phillip Phillips her favorite.

Readers weighed in too. After heavy early voting for “Idol” singers, polling closed Mar. 23, with Katrina Parker of “The Voice” on top with the most votes out of more than 21,000 cast.

Check out all the leaders at: latimes.com/idol-voice.

Let us know who you think stood out this week. Use the poll below to make your picks.

Check back tomorrow to see if your favorites made the cut and to see what Barton, Martens and Reiter had to say about the talent. The poll closes Monday at noon.

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-- Megan Garvey