Going into Sunday night’s episode of “American Idol” – Alabama singers held two of 14 positions and there’s GOOD NEWS for our home-state fans – as both Mia Matthews and Triston Harper will be moving on to the next round.

That live episode, required each of the 14 contenders to sing a song from an act inducted into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame – with some help from none other than Gene Simmons, the legendary Kiss bassist and singer.  Given Triston Harper’s affinity for true classic rock – it certainly came as no surprise to see him choose a tune made famous by Elvis Presley.  Mia Matthews, meanwhile, dared to tackle one turned into a hit by the trio of Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt.

Hearing Harper planned to go on stage without his very familiar acoustic guitar and cowboy hat, freeing himself up to show some moves, Simmons encouraged him. “My only comment, is simply to be more physically you, because there’s nobody else who can be.  It’s like your fingerprint.”  And, the 15 year old, turned in a fantastic performance of the Presley classic – “Heartbreak Hotel.”

Simmons called 19-year old Mia Matthews from Cherokee County “real country, and she’s is authentic and she needs to remember – emotion is the wild card”

He told her even slight expressions, and gestures, could have a big effect, and, he was impressed by her vocal delivery: “I couldn’t do that,” he said. “I make a lot of money.  I’m kind of a big deal.  I can’t sing as well as you can.  Oh, I’m telling you the truth.”

Matthews performed: “Those Memories of You,” a ‘70’s tune that became a Top 5 hit in the late ‘80’s after Parton, Harris and Ronstadt recorded it for their “Trio” album.

Host Ryan Seacrest, said more than 19.9 million votes were cast – during the episode.

And – the 13th episode of the season airing tonight (Monday night) – will require the 12 remaining singers, to tackle their favorite Billboard No. 1 hits.

(www.AL.COM)