I will admit it: I watch American Idol. I enjoy it, but I’m not into it as much as some people. Take my sister for instance: she is what we call a "voter." I have never had it in me to cast a vote; I guess I just don’t care that much.
Despite my abstaining ways, I have to admit that American Idol, or A.I. as the real cool kids say (for the purpose of this article, I am one of the cool kids), is a good show and a great concept. Not only has it launched the careers of several talented people who may have never been discovered, but it unites America in a celebration of song. With the music programs in so many schools subject to budget cuts, it’s nice to see America supporting the Arts: this will not be the day the music dies.
As good as AI has been in the past, I can’t help but wonder if it has lost some of its spark. Don’t get me wrong, the potential idols are, as usual, swimming with talent: as someone whose own musical peak ended after a third grade recorder performance, I have the utmost respect for people who can perform. Yet, it just doesn’t seem as passionate anymore, leaving me to point blame in a few directions.
The Tryouts: Now, I like to point and laugh at the people who think they can sing as much as the next person, but the tryouts have increasingly become bad… really bad. I can appreciate the people who try out singing opera or those weak in talent but rich in friends telling them that they are the next Celine Dion. At least these people are relevant. Those who try out knowing that they are well over the age range, or those who try out not to sing but to dance, juggle, or wow the judges through miming (I am in a box), are really just pointless. There's plenty of entertainment to be had in the people who simply are convinced they can sing: only singers in the required age range should be allowed to audition.
The Judges: I like Simon. His opinion, to me, seems to be the most important; he is the hardest to impress. Still, his temperament borders on just plain mean at times. Crude, rude, and full of ‘tude, it wouldn’t kill Simon to be a little more positive; hopefully this British man is still not holding 1776 against America.
Article comments
1 - Andrew B
Again with someone wanting part of the vote in the judges' hands. Hello!!! Why is this show so damn popular? Because the public (i.e. the viewers) are in total control. Take that control away and the show loses its appeal. It will turn into Star Search. Just live with the damn results.