9:00 update...

10:00 p.m.: Looking for some fresh photos for you--meanwhile, check out the Covingtons on the red carpet at the Fox site. Enjoy!

Just in case you're out West and still waiting for showtime, look for Bucky in the opening "we made it!" number with the rest of the finalists; and at about 8:40 sounding great in an all-male medley. (Really missed his voice--so good to see and hear him again!) Mrs. Covington and Bucky's brother Rocky are looking terrific in the audience--they give Elliott Yamin's mother a sweet standing ovation at about 8:55 or so (just after the "awards" segment.) More later!

(Edited to add: do not miss the [non Bucky, but fun] bit at 9:15 or so. Just trust me on this one.)

(Edited again: Bacharach medley at about 9:30. Bucky sounded wonderfully wistful doing "Raindrops", and I see that "My Little Red Book" would not have fit this evening gown-and-undone-tuxedo medley at all. My bad. I think Bucky picked up some new fans tonight, y'all. He is in fine voice this evening. Congratulations, Bucky!)