LOS ANGELES -- The usually mean Simon Cowell congratulated Oregon's Kristy Lee Cook's choice of songs she picked Tuesday night on American Idol.

Kristy Lee Cook as shown in a photo from her fan Web site.

Cowell told the 24-year-old Cook it is "the most clever song choice in years."

The Selma, Oregon woman chose "God Bless The USA." The top ten performed songs from the year they were born.

Last week, Cook fell into the bottom two after America voted, but she survived and Amanda Overmyer was ousted, which means Cook is still in the running for the title and a record contract.

More: Amanda Overmyer axed from show

In the past, Cook has had to endure some harsh criticism from judge Simon Cowell. He called her "forgettable" and compared her voice to "Dolly Parton on helium."