Susan Pierce: America, you voted the wrong girl off “American Idol” last week.

Whether you loved her Janis Joplin-esque singing style or not, Amanda Overmyer was never dull and always brought her A game, unlike Kristy Lee Cook, the Carrie Underwood wannabe. Cook is, to quote Simon Cowell’s favorite eulogy, “forgettable.”

Last week’s vote was important in that it determined the top 10 who will tour the nation this summer when Season 7 ends. Amanda would have added to the entertainment value of the tour’s ticket. People would have come just to see what she was really like.

Now the Harley-riding nurse with the Cruella de Vil hairstyle is gone, leaving only David Cook and Michael Johns to inject any excitement into what will be a power-ballad-strong lineup.

Christine Simmons: According to Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon, these are “the most talented ‘AI’ contestants we’ve ever had.” What?!

I’ve been surprised before when America voted off someone who I was sure was safe. But I was really shocked to see Amanda go home, especially when it was her against Kristy. Maybe America wants a kinder, gentler “American Idol” — something that won’t get them too excited and that they can fall asleep listening to.

Whether you liked Amanda’s style or not, she was exciting and very talented. I hope this is not the last we see of her. The world needs more rocker chicks.

I don’t see the group of contestants as a whole being remarkably talented but there are a couple that are beginning to stand out. Right now, I feel like this year’s “American Idol” winner may be whomever is the least-offensive.

Susan: Well, that would be David Archuleta, but at least he has talent.

Christine: I’m going to keep an eye on Carly Smithson and David Cook. I really like Carly’s voice, it’s very strong, and she has given consistent performances to this point. And I think that David Cook has star potential. I can totally see him being a front man for a rock band.

David Archuleta obviously can sing, but he seems more suited for the “High School Musical” type. I don’t think he has the stage presence of a solo artist.

Susan: One last thought about Amanda. I would have loved to see her interacting with Dolly Parton when the country icon is the guest mentor. Two over-the-top women who are true to themselves and don’t give a flip about fashion dictates ... what a hoot that could have been!

Even though she calls herself a “Backwoods Barbie” on her newest CD, Parton is an entertainment-savvy, intelligent woman whose sharp wit is sure to be entertaining when she advises the singers on country week.