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‘Idol’ sailor could be on thin ice

If “American Idol” voters agree with celebrity judge Simon Cowell’s assessment, Phil Stacey is doomed.

Stacey, a musician third class stationed with the Navy Band in Jacksonville, Fla., performed a soulful “Tobacco Road” Tuesday night on Fox’s hit talent show.

Cowell was not impressed. Calling the song worthy of a “third-division bar band,” he told Stacey that he didn’t believe the performance, citing a lack of “grit.”

After telling Stacey he is being “outsung” by the other contestants, he assured the performer that he could well “have a problem” when the votes are in Wednesday.

The other judges were kinder. Randy Jackson, cheerfully calling Stacey “Dawg,” pointed out some pitch issues but assessed it as “pretty good.” Paula Abdul called the song a “good choice” that was an opportunity to show off his vocal range.

First recorded by John D. Loudermilk in 1960, “Tobacco Road” was a hit for British Invasion band The Nashville Teens in 1964. Peter Noone of Herman’s Hermits coached Stacey, telling him in the video introducing the song that his performance of the song was among the best he has heard.

Stacey may be hoping that the “Soul Patrol,” fans of last year’s American Idol, Taylor Hicks, will toss a few votes his way.

Voting opened immediately after the show and continues for a few hours. To vote for Stacey, call 866-IDOLS-06 (866-436-5706) or send the text message “vote” to 5706.

Results will be broadcast 9 p.m. Wednesday on Fox.