Just to clarify a few things - When I Get You Alone was the first single released by Robin Thicke (who had a top 10 hit last month) about four or five years ago. It didn't really make it big in the U.S. but had some success internationally. I agree it wasn't the best song choice for Blake. I also agree This Love was perfect for him and was his best performance.
In terms of song choices, the only songs the contestants chose were the last ones they did of the three. The first one was chosen by one of the judges, the second one was chosen by the producers and the contestants chose the third one. So Melinda's performance of the Whitney song, although extremely well done, wasn't really gutsy - she had to sing it.
Similarly, Jordin did not choose She Works Hard for the Money - the producers did. I thought she was great on the first song (which Simon chose) and didn't really get Simon's issue with the arrangement.
I think the judge's praise of Melinda will catapult her to the finals (although I agree that she is a dull performer even if she is so technically talented). I just enjoy watching Blake and Jordin so much more. Unfortunately, I think one of them goes - Dial Idol seems to agree although it is extremely close and I think the results will be very tight. I predict Blake will go home.