Goodbye, American Idle

I started following American Idol since Season 3, when Jasmine Trias, a Fil-am from Hawaii was catapulted as one of the top three finalists. Many critics slammed her because she wasn’t really deserving of the position, singing talent-wise. It was only the rabid support of the Filipinos in the US which gave her the points needed to be in the finals. It was also the season when Jennifer Hudson, now an Oscar winner, was booted out too early in favour of less talented hopefuls. Anyway, what I’m driving at is that I know American Idol by heart, and after so many seasons, it had become so boring and blah for me and my daughter (though I still watched up to Season 9—go figure!).

Until this year's Season 10 started.  With the acerbic-tongued Brit Simon Cowell bowing out of the show, I was curious to see what the new set of judges would bring to the table. I must say that I am pleasantly surprised and excited with what I’m seeing. The new panel is composed of the only original judge Randy Jackson (music producer veteran), Steven Tyler (lead singer of the iconic Aerosmith), and Jennifer Lopez (you know who she is!). They bring authentic know-how and understanding of what a musical artist should be. They sing with the contestants, they laugh, they cry—what reality TV is all about.

(Taken from the Canadian Press/Yahoo News Canada)

The Season has just picked the Top 24, and I am very impressed with the choices this year’s judges made. It’s not about so much of the looks this time (we have that in Britney, Taylor, and Justin, right?), but where the heart of music is—talent. I’m having a difficult time choosing my early favourites, a good sign. This means that I’d be looking forward to every single performance these kids would bring, would have a hard time picking the winner, but would be loving every moment of it. I also sheepishly admit that I already cried three times over this show---just this season. ("Mom, you are so lame!" Yup, that's my daughter berating me again!) So for those of you who would be calling or texting or chatting with me on Thursday and Friday nights, can you please do it after the show? ;-)

My new Idol at the 2011 Grammy Awards.
I gave her my space this time.
If only I could pose like her!

Note: Okay, I just have to add here that my love for JLo amplified by a million times. She doesn’t only look stunning every time (she naturally glows, people!), but her raw and real emotions and kindness shine through. What a true trooper she is. Eyelav’er!!