The remaining seven contestants on "American Idol" take on songs from the 21st century during tonight's show, which begins at 8 p.m. on FOX 50.

Since that's a pretty broad category, North Carolina's Scotty McCreery will likely pick a country song for the competition.

The 17-year-old started his journey with "American Idol" back during a summer audition in Milwaukee, where he surprised judges Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson with his smooth bass voice as he sang Josh Turner's "Your Man" and Travis Tritt's "Put Some Drive in Your Country."

In the past, McCreery has performed Travis Tritt's "Can I Trust You With My Heart?", a song from the year of his birth; Elton John's "Country Comfort"; "The River," a Garth Brooks tune; and "That's All Right, Mama," one of Elvis Presley's early hits, during Rock and Roll Hall of Fame week.

Last week, McCreery sang a crowd-pleasing George Strait ballad, "I Cross My Heart," from the film "Pure Country."

McCreery has received compliments from all three of the judges on his performances.

He is the grandson of Bill and Paquita McCreery, of Aberdeen, and nephew of Tina and Billy Creech, of Pinehurst. Cousins Samantha and Casey Creech are students at Pinecrest High School.

Paul McDonald was sent home after last week's voting.

Votes may be cast online at www.americanidol.com or by telephone for two hours following the broadcast.

The results show airs Thursday night at 8 p.m.

Contact Faye Dasen at fdasen@thepilot.com or (910) 693-2475.