“American Idol” Confirms Top 3 Performance Theme, Next Week’s Guest Performers

Down to the final three but still on an hour-and-a-half schedule, next week’s “American Idol” will give the contestants ample opportunity to shine–or struggle–vocally.

FOX made what had been obvious to long-time “Idol” fans official late Thursday, confirming that Scotty McCreery, Haley Reinhart and Lauren Alaina will each sing three songs next week.

One song will be a judge’s selection, one will be a selection from mentor Jimmy Iovine and one will be a personal choice. “Idol” will also spotlight the annual Top 3 homecoming visits over the lengthy performance show.

Thursday’s results show, during which the final two contestants will be revealed, is to feature guest performances from Nicole Scherzinger (with 50 Cent) and Il Volo.