LOS ANGELES - "American Idol" finalist Jessica Sanchez must reach viewers emotionally in order to win the contest this week, while rival Phillip Phillips has a "crazy charisma" that will serve him well in his career, the show's mentor Jimmy Iovine said on Monday.

As "American Idol" approaches its climax on Tuesday, Iovine said he was impressed by both the young singers but gave little away on who he thought would win the 2012 title and a guaranteed recording contract.

Sanchez, a 16 year-old with a big voice but who has been criticized for failing to connect with her lyrics, and Phillips, 21, a singer-songwriter with an indie vibe and sometimes quirky song choices, will sing three numbers each on Tuesday night in a bid for public votes. The winner will be announced on Wednesday.


Iovine told reporters on a conference call that in order to win the contest, Sanchez "has to find that balance between her capabilities and reach inside and have the right song to click the emotion. She has to get people to vote for her who haven't in the past."

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