You Oughta Know: Haley Reinhart Goes for Idol's Finals

Just four days after Haley Reinhart’s hometown celebration, which culminated with a packed concert Saturday in the cold and rain at Arlington Park, the 20-year-old Wheeling resident will take the stage tonight (Wednesday) for American Idol’s semi-final competition.

Reinhart and the two other finalists, Lauren Alaina and Scotty McCreery, will perform three songs, including one selected for them by the show’s judges. Reinhart announced to fans Saturday that she will sing Alanis Morissette’s “You Oughta Know.”

The singer, who said Saturday that “the judges chose wisely,” has been praised for the performances she’s delivered immediately following critical remarks from Idol judges. Perhaps the judges had Reinhart’s apparent ability to positively channel her frustration in mind when they chose a song by Morrissette, who is known for pouring her own anger into her lyrics.

The finalists will reportedly also sing a song selected by Idol producer Jimmy Iovine as well as a song of their choice.

Reinhart, who studied jazz at Harper College following her graduation from Wheeling High School, has received an outpouring of support from local residents and businesses.

“Vote Haley” signs dot Wheeling’s landscape, while many restaurants are holding viewing parties, honoring her on their marquees and offering assorted promotions in her name, ranging from $5 off e-coupons from Lou Malnati's in Buffalo Grove, valid when customers pledge to vote for Reinhart, to T-shirts sold by P.S. Pub in Wheeling.

Reinhart, McCreery and Alaina take the stage at 7 p.m. on Fox. Voting will be open for two hours following the show via text message, phone and online.