American Idol has started season 8 with promises of focusing more on talent and moving away from some of the circus atmosphere that marked the beginning of each season. There will still be some of that as shown already with the Phoenix and Kansas City auditions but there has definitely been more air time given to the real talent.

Also, one of the changes that would come out of Hollywood week, is that the top 12 will not be selected using the top six male and top six female model, it will literally represent the top 12 irregardless of gender.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The new idol judge, Kara DioGuardi, has already made her marked as someone that is a knowledgeable force on the panel. She has not trouble voicing her opinion and engaging attitude laden, bikini clad contestants like Katrina Darrell in a sing off at the Phoenix auditions. Now that was good TV.  I love Kara already.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The contestants that have been passed through so far to Hollywood are varied and strong. Currently the talent seems to favor the boys but that can all change in Hollywood.  Some frontrunners I noticed are Von Smith and Danny Gokey.  Blind contestant, Scott Macintyre also is formidable. Jessica Furney is also one of my favorites.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of course, this list can change. The season has just started and my favorite guilty pleasure is back!

Interview with New Idol Judge Kara DioGuardi

Interview with American Idol contestant Scott Macintyre