Anwar Robinson Cut From 'American Idol'

NEW YORK (AP) _ After Tuesday's `70s disco-themed ``American Idol,'' Anwar Robinson failed to stay alive on Wednesday night's show. <br/><br/>Despite being earlier hailed by judge Paula

Thursday, April 21st 2005, 10:16 am

By: News On 6

NEW YORK (AP) _ After Tuesday's `70s disco-themed ``American Idol,'' Anwar Robinson failed to stay alive on Wednesday night's show.

Despite being earlier hailed by judge Paula Abdul as technically this season's best singer, the dreadlocked Robinson received the fewest votes and was sent home, narrowing the field of contestants to just six.

In his performance Tuesday, Robinson sang Earth, Wind and Fire's ``September.'' Judge Simon Cowell's assessment proved prophetic.

``I don't think it was a winning performance,'' Cowell said.

Robinson, a 25-year-old middle school teacher from Elizabeth, N.J., earlier showcased his keyboard skills when the Idol hopefuls sang and played instruments on ``You Can Shine.''

Looking on was the song's writer, John Farrar, who penned many of Olivia Newton-John's tunes.

Escaping elimination were two contestants on the Fox show who have previously also failed to generate much enthusiasm from voters.

Anthony Federov's rendition of ``Don't Take the Music,'' which Cowell called ``insipid,'' landed him in the bottom three. Scott Savol's version of ``Everlasting Love'' also failed to inspire great support.

Bo Bice, Vonzell Solomon, Carrie Underwood and Constantine Maroulis are the other remaining Idols. The ``American Idol'' finale is scheduled for May 24-25.