Tyler, Lopez join popular show; lower entry age brings young talent
Let’s not all go to Hollywood. American Idol has been a talent-finding phenomenon for the entire 10, no wait, the first seven, no, the first four seasons since its debut back in 2002.
The only contestants that actually found real success after “Idol” are seasons one and four winners, Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood, who have both become Grammy award-winning artists. Also, there’s Chris Daughtry, who found success in his own pop-rock band after his controversial elimination during season five. The closest thing that any other noteworthy contestant has achieved in music is starring in a Broadway show of some sorts.
The audition portion of the entire program is practically the only reason why anybody would watch the show, as it is the only time when “American Idol” provides anything worth watching. I, like millions of others, get a kick out of seeing all those talentless hopefuls humiliate themselves on national television, whether it’s because they want their 15 seconds of fame or they really believe they can carry a tune. What’s even more comedic is when some of the failed contestants get upset with the judges for criticizing their self-proclaimed talent.
For those who have seen the show this season, you have probably noticed that there are a couple of key changes to the show. The most obvious is that Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul have left the show, and have been replaced with Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler and pop singer Jennifer Lopez. Also, the minimum age requirement has been lowered to 15, allowing the judges to discover some really young talent, including an obese Justin Bieber look-alike. Adding Tyler and Lopez to the mix was the best decision the producers have made yet. Ever since the ridiculous decision to add Kara DioGuardi and Ellen DeGeneres as judges, it was clear that the producers needed to rethink where “Idol” was going. “Idol” definitely works better with three judges instead of four, cutting-down on overlapping commentary.
The show may lose its appeal without the brutal honesty of Cowell, but Tyler’s musical credentials have proven to be greater than Cowell’s. Surprisingly, Tyler has managed to keep the show alive with his witty remarks, and he constantly throws himself into the auditions by unleashing the high-pitched screams he is known for. I guess Randy Jackson is filling Simon’s shoes since he has been harsher than usual with his judgments.
Jennifer Lopez, on the other hand, is a different case, refusing to crush dreams of sweet, fragile contestants. She has become the perfect Paula Abdul replacement, minus the alcoholism and rumors that she slept with a contestant.
If Comedy Central isn’t airing anything interesting, and you’re dying for a few laughs, I’d strongly suggest tuning in to Fox Wednesday and Thursday at 8 p.m. for the next couple of weeks to watch many terrible singers get insulted and embarrass themselves. After the auditions, I’d strongly discourage anyone from watching it any further.